🚗 Types of Drivers License: A Complete Guide for UK Motorists
Types of drivers license in the UK vary depending on the kind of vehicle you want to drive, your age, and your driving experience. Whether you’re a teenager preparing for your first driving lesson, someone looking to drive a bus or lorry, or just curious about what all the licence codes mean—understanding the different licence types is essential.Types of Drivers License
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the main types of drivers license in the UK, what vehicles they allow you to operate, how to obtain them, and which ones you may already qualify for without realising it.
🧾 Why Understanding Licence Types Matters
Each type of UK driving licence comes with specific entitlements and restrictions. Holding the wrong licence or driving a vehicle outside your category can lead to fines, points on your licence, or even disqualification.
When you apply for your driving licence or add new vehicle categories to it, you’ll be issued entitlements based on your tests, training, and medical fitness.Types of Drivers License
🛻 Most Common Types of Drivers License in the UK
Let’s explore the most widely used UK driving licence categories.
1. Category AM – Mopeds
- Age: 16+
- Entitlement: Mopeds with speeds between 25 km/h and 45 km/h (around 15–28 mph)
- Requirements: Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), theory test, practical test
This is usually the first type of drivers license young riders apply for.
2. Category A – Motorcycles
The motorcycle licence is divided into several sub-categories based on engine power and age.
- A1 (17+): Small bikes up to 125cc
- A2 (19+): Medium bikes (restricted power output)
- A (24+ or 21+ via progressive access): Full, unrestricted motorcycles
Getting a motorcycle licence involves completing CBT, passing a theory test, and practical modules.
3. Category B – Cars
- Age: 17+
- Entitlement: Standard cars and small vans (up to 3,500kg with up to 8 passenger seats)
- Can tow trailers up to 750kg, or heavier if combined weight is under 3,500kg
This is the most common type of drivers license. It allows you to drive a manual or automatic car, depending on what you used during the test.Types of Drivers License
4. Category BE – Car + Trailer
- Allows towing of heavier trailers with a Category B vehicle
- You need this if you’re towing more than 750kg and the total combined weight exceeds 3,500kg
Since changes in towing laws, many drivers no longer need to take a separate test, but it’s best to check the latest DVLA guidance.
5. Category C – Lorries (LGV/HGV)
For those interested in a professional driving career:
- C1 (18+): Vehicles between 3,500kg and 7,500kg (e.g., ambulances, small lorries)
- C (18+): Vehicles over 3,500kg with a trailer up to 750kg
Requires a medical test, theory test, and practical driving exam. These licences are mandatory for HGV drivers.
6. Category CE – Lorry + Trailer
- Entitlement to drive a C vehicle with a trailer over 750kg
- Often required for articulated lorries
This is a popular upgrade for professional drivers looking to increase job opportunities.Types of Drivers License
7. Category D – Buses and Coaches
If you want to drive buses or coaches:
- D1 (21+): Minibuses (up to 16 passenger seats)
- D (24+): Any bus with more than 8 passenger seats
Driving professionally also requires a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).
8. Category F, G, H, and K – Specialised Vehicles
- F: Agricultural tractors
- G: Road rollers
- H: Tracked vehicles (e.g., tanks)
- K: Mowing machines or pedestrian-controlled vehicles
These are more niche but still officially recognised types of drivers license. Some may require additional tests or employer training.
🧠 How to Know What You’re Licensed to Drive
Flip your UK photocard driving licence over and look at the categories table. You’ll see a list of licence types under column 9, with issue and expiry dates in columns 10 and 11. Restrictions and conditions (e.g., “automatic only”) appear in column 12.
You can also view your driving record online via the DVLA’s View Driving Licence Service.
📝 How to Add or Upgrade Licence Categories
To upgrade your licence (e.g., from Category B to C), you’ll typically need to:
- Be the minimum legal age
- Pass a medical examination (for larger vehicles)
- Complete a theory and practical test
- Apply through DVLA or an accredited training centre
Some upgrades, like towing, may no longer require a test—but check current rules, as they often change.
⏳ Licence Validity and Renewal
- Most licences are valid for 10 years (for photo renewal)
- At age 70, you must renew every 3 years
- Professional drivers may require more frequent medical checks or CPC training
Renewing on time ensures your entitlements remain active and your insurance stays valid.
⚠️ Driving Without Proper Licence Type
Driving a vehicle without the correct licence category is illegal and can result in:
- A fine up to £1,000
- Up to 6 penalty points
- Disqualification or licence suspension
- Invalid insurance (a serious offence)
Always ensure you’re driving within the legal scope of your licence type.
✅ Final Thoughts
Knowing the different types of drivers license available in the UK helps you stay compliant, explore career opportunities, and get the most out of your driving entitlements. Whether you’re driving a car, riding a moped, towing a trailer, or considering a commercial vehicle licence, there’s a specific category designed for your needs.
Always check your current entitlements, understand any restrictions, and follow the official steps if you want to upgrade or expand your licence. With the right knowledge and preparation, the UK roads are yours to explore—legally and safely.
