When do I need a van driving license?

When do you need a van driving license?

Are you moving and need to transport all your belongings? Have you finally managed to sell your old sofa on Wallapop and need to deliver it to the buyer?

Renting a van is the obvious answer to both puzzles, but if you’ve never driven one before, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. To start with, when do you need a specific license to drive vans and when do you not?

Here we break down the essentials regarding van rental and driving rules. You can thank us later.

If you’re in the UK, the rules are quite simple and clear

Want to rent a van to transport something across the UK? There are just a few rules you need to keep in mind:

• You only need a special license if your vehicle weighs more than 3500 kg. That’s right. Depending on the weight of the van, you might not need one. With a full UK driving license (or category B license), you can drive vans, rigid axle trucks, or standard vans, as long as they weigh less than 3500 kg.
• When we talk about weight, it includes everything. From the load to the passengers, to the fuel, the weight allowance includes absolutely everything. You can get an idea of the van’s weight when empty when you rent it. After that, you’ll have to calculate. Forget about the morning breakfast at McDonald’s.
• The limit is a bit higher for electric vehicles. Doing your part for the planet by renting an electric van? Good for you! You’ll have a bit more weight to play with. Currently, you can drive an electric vehicle weighing up to 4250 kg with a standard driving license.
• Something weighing a bit more and you’ll need a category C license. Need to transport heavy materials? You’ll need to apply for a class C driving license. Generally, this requires you to pass an additional driving test proving you’re capable of handling a larger vehicle.
• There are some exceptions. Did you acquire your license before 1997? Check the back to see if it allows you to drive vans. The left column tells you the category of vehicle you’re allowed to drive, and the one right next to it tells you the expiration date.

Driving across the Channel? There are a few things to keep in mind…

If your destination is somewhere in Europe, you might need to deal with some additional rules.

• You might need an International Driving Permit. Whatever type of vehicle you’re driving, you might need to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you leave. While most European countries accept the UK driving license, others, like Norway, will require an IDP if:
• You only have a paper driving license.
• Your license was issued in Jersey, Guernsey, Gibraltar, or the Isle of Man.
• The country you’re visiting requires one due to Brexit (check online to see if this is the case).
• Your UK driving license should be sufficient. If you rent your vehicle in the UK and are driving in Europe, you should be allowed to drive a van. You’ll need to follow the UK rules on category B and C licenses. If you’re unsure, check with your rental agent when you pick up the vehicle.
• You’ll need a few things now that the UK is no longer in the European Union. Due to Brexit, you’ll need to make sure you have a GB sticker on the back of the van if it has a UK license plate but you’re driving it in Europe. You’ll also need a Green Card for insurance matters.
• Speaking of insurance, make sure you have comprehensive coverage. When renting a vehicle abroad (or in the UK to drive abroad), you need to update your insurance to cover you in Europe. There might already be a policy that covers you in this case. Some countries will require you to have a Green Card (a globally recognized insurance document).
• Don’t forget the documentation. When driving in the European Union, you need to make sure you have your full driving license, passport, a copy of your driving license information, travel insurance documents, and any visas you might need (especially after Brexit).

Key tips for driving in the EU

1. Remember to drive on the right side! Rule number one for driving in Europe: switch to the other side of the road or you’ll get into serious trouble with other drivers.

2. Watch out for toll roads. Many countries in Europe, like France, Germany, and Italy, have superhighways that often have tolls. Always have some cash on hand.

3. Driving in France? Watch out for Clean Air Zones. Many cities in France restrict access to vehicles that produce a lot of emissions. This could be the case if you’re driving a van with heavy materials, so it’s best to check in advance. Paris, Grenoble, Strasbourg, and Lyon are cities that require clean air stickers to access them.

4. There are also low emission zones in nine other nations. Yes, there are quite a few countries in the European Union that have special zones where high-emission vehicles cannot access. This, unfortunately, includes trucks and vans, so it’s best to plan ahead before starting your journey.

5. Make sure you have all the necessary safety equipment. In case of breakdowns or accidents, it’s a legal requirement in many European Union countries to have certain equipment in the vehicle. This includes warning triangles, reflective vests, and first aid kits.

Renting a van to move all your things to a new home? Check out our moving guide, as it might help you stay relaxed on the big day.