New driving licence rule kicks in for millions of Brits TODAY – are you impacted?
A NEW driving licence rule has officially been brought in, changing what a standard permit can legally cover.
British motorist who
hold a standard Category B licence will now be allowed to drive zero-emission
vehicles
weighing up to 4,250kg.
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2
Millions of UK motorists will be eligible to drive a wider range of vehicles without additional testing (stock image)
Credit: Alamy
Under this update, millions of UK drivers will now be able to legally drive an electric van or small truck with a standard vehicle licence.
Previously, motorists would have been required to provide a higher licence category.
The rule change is aimed at making it easier to switch to greener vehicles, which often weigh more due to large battery packs or hydrogen fuel systems.
A typical medium-sized electric delivery van or passenger minibus can weigh close to 4,250kg, especially when fitted with extra equipment.
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This is a significant increase from the 3,500kg limit which was previously in place.
The licence update is expected to support the growing shift towards greener transport options.
Use of zero emission vehicles has grown significantly in recent years as drivers embrace cleaner motoring.
Beginning today, motorists with a Category B driving licence can drive an electric or hydrogen-powered vehicle with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of up to 4,250kg.
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In order to be eligible, the vehicle must be a zero emission vehicle.
Meanwhile, the MAM limit for petrol and diesel vehicles remains at 3,500kg when driving with a category B licence.
Shocking moment cyclist tears through traffic with child clinging to back - before riding WRONG way through roundabout
To fall in within the category, the vehicle must be classified as a van or a light commercial vehicle.
The rule applies to standard vehicles that can be used with a Category B licence, including cars, SUVs, vans, and small trucks.
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Vehicles which use specialist equipment to support disabled passengers can have a MAM of up to 5,000kg, however, the extra 750kg must be attributable to the equipment.
Category B licence holders can also tow a trailer with a MAM up to 3,500kg wit a petrol, diesel, electric, or hydrogen vehicle.
However, the combined MAM of the vehicle and trailer must not exceed 7,000kg.
Top 10 most common driving licence codes and what they mean
EVER turned your driving licence over and wondered what the random collection of numbers mean?
If not, you should because the codes could land you with a fine and penalty points if you don't understand what they're there for.
Here are the ten most common codes and what they mean:
01 - eyesight correction, for example glasses or contact lenses
02 - hearing/communication aid
40 - modified steering
101 - not for hire or reward (that is, not to make a profit)
105 - vehicle not more than 5.5metres long
106 - restricted to vehicles with automatic transmissions
107 - not more than 8,250 kilograms
111 - limited to 16 passenger seats
115 - organ donor
122 - valid on successful completion: Basic Moped Training Course 125 - tricycles only (for licences issued before June 29, 2014)
For a full list visit the DVLA
And if someone with a Category B licence passed their test before January 1, 1997, they can drive a vehicle and trailer combination as heavy as 8,250kg.
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The UK Government reports that zero emission vehicles are constructed to the "same high standards" as equivalent internal combustion engine vehicles.
However, they still advised drivers to ensure they are familiar with using the controls, as the zero emissions vehicles can "handle differently".
Motorists are advised to practice driving the vehicle in a safe and controlled environment, especially before towing a trailer.
'When driving, you should understand how to safely manoeuvre the vehicle and trailer," the DVSA said.
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"If the trailer starts to snake or swerve, ease off the accelerator and reduce your speed gently.
"Do not brake harshly on a bend, as it makes the trailer unstable.'
While there won't be any physical changes made to the Category B licence, the entitlement will apply to all motorists who hold it.
The Government offers an online service for checking your driving entitlements and what restrictions may apply.
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It's especially important for anyone unsure about their rights, particularly if they passed their driving test before licensing rules changed in 1997.
Drivers in Northern Ireland should note that licence categories may differ slightly and should check regional guidance.
The changes come at a time when the UK is encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles to meet its net zero targets.
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The update will affect anyone who holds a Category B driving licence in the UK (stock image)
Credit: Getty
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