Adding Categories to Your Driving Licence
Buy Uk Driving Licence
Adding Categories to Your Driving Licence: If you’re looking to expand your driving skills and open up new career or travel opportunities, adding categories to your driving licence might be the perfect next step. Whether you want to drive a minibus, tow a trailer, or operate a larger vehicle, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to upgrade your UK driving licence.
What Does It Mean to Add Categories to a Driving Licence?
When you pass your standard driving test in the UK (usually Category B for cars), your licence only allows you to drive specific types of vehicles. If you want to drive other vehicles — such as motorcycles, lorries, minibuses, or vehicles with trailers — you’ll need to add new categories to your driving licence by taking further tests.
These categories are listed on the back of your photocard licence, and each one corresponds to a vehicle type.
Popular Licence Categories You Can Add
Here are some common driving licence categories people choose to add:
- Category A – Motorcycles
- Category C1 / C – Lorries and larger goods vehicles
- Category D1 / D – Minibuses and buses
- Category BE – Cars with trailers
- Category C1E / CE / D1E / DE – Vehicles with trailers in respective classes
Each category has its own set of requirements, age limits, and medical standards.
Why Add More Categories to Your Licence?
Adding categories to your driving licence can offer several benefits:
- Better job opportunities (e.g., delivery driver, HGV driver, bus driver)
- More flexibility for travel (e.g., towing a caravan or horsebox)
- Higher earning potential
- More confidence and skill behind the wheel
How to Add a New Category to Your Licence
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
1. Check the Requirements
Each category has different rules. Some require:
- A medical examination (especially for HGV or bus categories)
- Being a certain minimum age
- Holding a standard car licence for a specific period
2. Apply for a Provisional Entitlement
Use form D2 (for lorries or buses) or apply online via the GOV.UK website.
If you’re applying for categories that require medical checks (e.g., C or D), you’ll also need to submit form D4, completed by a doctor.
3. Take Theory and Practical Tests
You’ll need to:
- Pass a theory test for the category
- Take a practical driving test in the appropriate vehicle type
For some categories (like BE), only the practical test may be needed.
4. Get Your Licence Updated
Once you’ve passed, the DVLA will update your licence to show the new category. You’ll receive your new photocard licence by post.
What Does It Cost?
The total cost depends on:
- Medical exams (if required)
- Theory test fee: Around £26
- Practical test: Ranges from £62 to over £115, depending on time and vehicle
- Optional training costs (e.g., lessons or courses)
Take Training Courses
While not always mandatory, professional training helps you feel more confident and prepared — especially for categories involving large or heavy vehicles. Many accredited driving schools offer tailored lessons for each category.
Final Thoughts: Expand Your Driving Horizons
Adding categories to your driving licence is a great way to gain more freedom, increase your job prospects, and take on new driving challenges. With the right preparation and training, you’ll be legally qualified and road-ready in no time.
Leave a Reply