Discover the Right UK Driver’s License Category for Your Needs
In the UK, driver’s licenses are organized into categories, each defining what types of vehicles a driver is legally allowed to operate. Whether you're aiming to drive a car, motorcycle, or heavy vehicle, it’s essential to know the appropriate UK driver’s license category for your needs.
Explore the full list of driver’s license categories in the UK below to determine the license you need for various vehicle types, from mopeds and motorcycles to cars and commercial vehicles.
Common UK Driver’s License Categories
Category AM – Mopeds and Light Quadricycles
License for: Small mopeds (up to 28 mph) and light quad bikes (up to 350 kg).
Category A1 – Light Motorcycles
License for: Motorcycles up to 125cc with a maximum power output of 11 kW. Ideal for new riders looking to gain experience on smaller bikes.
Category A2 – Medium Motorcycles
License for: Medium-powered motorcycles with up to 35 kW. A good step for riders progressing toward unrestricted motorcycles.
Category A – Full Motorcycles
License for: All types of motorcycles, including powerful models. This is the ultimate motorcycle license in the UK.
Category B – Cars and Light Vehicles
License for: Cars and small vehicles up to 3,500 kg, with up to 8 passenger seats. Category B also allows driving vehicles with trailers up to 750 kg.
Category BE – Cars with Heavy Trailers
License for: Vehicles in Category B with trailers exceeding 750 kg, provided the combined vehicle and trailer weight does not exceed 7,000 kg.
Professional Driver’s License Categories
Category C1 – Medium-Sized Vehicles
License for: Commercial vehicles between 3,500 kg and 7,500 kg, with trailers up to 750 kg. This category is essential for logistics and transportation roles.
Category C – Large Goods Vehicles
License for: Large vehicles over 3,500 kg with trailers up to 750 kg, commonly required for HGV drivers.
Category C1E – Medium-Sized Vehicles with Trailers
License for: Vehicles in Category C1 with trailers over 750 kg, up to a combined weight of 12,000 kg.
Category CE – Large Vehicles with Heavy Trailers
License for: Heavy-duty vehicles in Category C with trailers over 750 kg. This license is mandatory for heavy goods transport across the UK.
Public Transport Driver’s License Categories
Category D1 – Minibuses
License for: Minibuses carrying 9 to 16 passengers, with trailers up to 750 kg. Ideal for small group transport needs.
Category D – Full-Size Buses
License for: Any buses with more than 8 passenger seats, required for public transportation drivers.
Category D1E – Minibuses with Trailers
License for: Minibuses in Category D1 with trailers exceeding 750 kg, up to a combined maximum of 12,000 kg.
Category DE – Buses with Heavy Trailers
License for: Buses in Category D with trailers over 750 kg, typically for larger passenger and transport needs.
Specialized UK Driver’s License Categories
Category F – Agricultural Tractors:
Permits operation of tractors for farming and agricultural work.
Category H – Tracked Vehicles:
Required for tracked vehicles like tanks.
Category P – Low-Speed Mopeds:
For two-wheeled mopeds with a speed up to 31 mph.
Category G – Road Rollers:
Authorizes operation of road rollers used in construction.
Category K – Mowing Machines:
Allows use of ride-on mowers and pedestrian-controlled vehicles.
Category Q – Electric Mopeds:
For low-speed electric mopeds with speeds of up to 15.5 mph.
How to Choose the Right UK Driver’s License Category
If you’re unsure which driver’s license category fits your needs, our team at Drivers License UK is here to help. Whether you’re looking to get a car driving license, motorcycle license, or a license for heavy goods vehicles, understanding the UK driver’s license categories is the first step to driving legally and safely.
For more information on how to apply for your license or upgrade your current one, visit our UK driving license application guide or contact us directly.
Ready to Apply? Start Your Journey with Drivers License UK
Choose the right license category and start your journey today! For a streamlined application process and support, Drivers License UK is your trusted partner. Get in touch for expert guidance on obtaining the correct UK driver’s license and learn more about driving legally in the UK.
