MINIBUS PCV CATEGORY D1 TRAINING

To obtain your Minibus PCV Category D1 Licence please follow the steps below:

1. Applying for a Provisional Licence:

The first step is to complete DVLA form D2, this is the application form for a provisional category D1 photocard driving licence entitlement. Next you need to book a PCV medical examination with a doctor. The doctor will need to complete DVLA form D4. You should then send off both parts of your category B (car) licence, D2 and D4 forms to the DVLA in Swansea.

DVLA forms D2 and D4 are available from your local DVLA office or Post Office

2. Booking your Theory Test:

When you have received your PCV provisional driving licence back from the DVLA you are then able to book your Driver CPC Module 1 theory test. 

Theory tests can be booked via the internet at www.direct.gov.uk or by telephoning the booking centre on 0300 200 1122.

3. PCV Theory Test (Driver CPC Module 1):

Before being able to take your practical test, you will need to pass the PCV theory test. The Driver CPC Module 1 theory test is divided into two separate parts; the Multiple Choice Test (100 questions) £35.00 and the Hazard Perception Test (19 interactive clips) £15.00.

To make a booking you will need your driving licence number and credit or debit card. If you experience problems in booking your theory test please contact us as we  can book a theory test on your behalf. After passing the theory test we can then start your practical training.

In order to pass the Driver CPC Module 1 theory tests we strongly recommend you study the following material:

• A book or CD-ROM titled ‘The official theory test for drivers of large vehicles’. This covers the multiple choice test.
• A DVD titled ‘The official guide to hazard perception’. This includes sample clips, which give you feedback to help you prepare for the hazard perception test.

The theory test is not just about the highway code, it covers all topics ranging from vehicle weights and dimensions, drivers' hours, the carriage of passengers, hazard perception, environmental issues plus other matters relating to passenger carrying vehicles. Mock theory tests can be found on the DSA website www.dsa.gov.uk.

INTRANS can provide training materials.

Case Study Test (Driver CPC Module 2): In addition to passing the two theory tests, if you want to become a professional driver (which means you will drive for a living) you will also need to pass a Driver CPC Case Study Test (£30.00).

The Case Study Test is computer based. There are seven case study tests, each with between six and eight questions. The questions will be based on real life situations you may encounter in your working life as a professional driver. Further information can be found in a book titled ‘Driver CPC the official guide for professional bus and coach drivers’ (£9.99).

The Driver CPC Module 2 Case Study Test can be booked via the DSA website at www.direct.gov.uk or by telephoning the booking centre on 0300 200 1122.
After passing the theory test(s) we can then start your practical training.

4. Practical Driving Assessment:

You may wish to attend a free one hour driving assessment. For this you need to produce both parts of your provisional PCV category D1 driving licence. The assessment will consist of a brief demonstration drive by the instructor, followed by you driving on-road in various traffic situations and completing an off-road reversing exercise.

After the assessment drive the instructor can advise as to how many training days are needed in order to reach test standard. Assessment drives are available during most days and also on Saturdays. To book an assessment drive, please contact us.

5. Practical Driver Training & Test (Driver CPC Module 3)

A normal training day will start at 8am and finish at 4pm with training being conducted on a ratio of two students to one instructor. Should training be conducted on a 'one to one' basis the training day will be reduced to a four hour period.

The practical training course will cover all aspects required by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) Syllabus. Items covered will include vehicle safety check questions, driving on urban & rural roads, procedures at bus stops, dual carriageways & motorways, also off-road reversing and braking exercises.

6. Practical Demonstration Test (Driver CPC Module 4):

If you need to achieve the full professional Driver CPC qualification, after passing the practical test you will also be required to complete a Driver CPC Module 4 Practical Demonstration Test (£55.00).

The test takes place at the practical test centre and the examiner will test your knowledge in the following areas:

• Prepare for duty in a safe manner
• Ensure your vehicle is fit for service
• Inspect and use equipment in conjunction with the Disability Discrimination Act
• Show you can take measures to ensure that illegal immigrants or goods are prevented from being carried

The Driver CPC Module 4 Practical Demonstration Test can be booked via the internet at www.direct.gov.uk or by telephoning the booking centre on 0300 200 1122. Alternatively INTRANS can arrange the test on your behalf.

Further information regarding the new Driver CPC for professional PCV drivers can be found at www.transportoffice.gov.uk/cpc.

7. Minibus and Trailer (Category D1+E):

If you have already passed your minibus test (category D1) and you need to tow a trailer greater than 750kgs then you will need to take a minibus and trailer test (category D1+E). You do not need to apply for a provisional entitlement as you will automatically have a provisional D1+E added onto your paper counterpart licence after passing your minibus test.

To book an assessment drive please contact us and we will be happy to conduct a free assessment and then advise on a course duration best suited to your natural driving ability.