Drive a Minibus with a Trailer D1+E Training in Sussex
Upgrade your D1 licence to tow a trailer safely and legally. Our PCV D1+E training gives you the skills, confidence and test preparation you need for professional passenger transport or private group travel.
Who Needs a D1+E Licence?
The PCV trailer add-on is for minibus licence holders who need to tow a trailer for work or personal use. This could be:
Activity group tours or event companies moving people and equipment
Private minibus owners who tow items such as camping gear and leisure equipment
Professional shuttle drivers working in passenger transport with large equipment
Why upgrade to the trailer extension?
With the D1+E category, you’ll be legally allowed to tow a trailer over 750kg with your minibus, giving you far more flexibility for your passenger carrying endeavours.
Our training leaves you confident in your abilities and fully compliant with UK road laws.
Have a question?
Ready to Book Your Assessment Drive?
Book your assessment drive with us to see how many days of training you’ll need to pass your D1+E test with confidence. We’ll guide you through every step - no time or money wasted.
"The HGV course at Sussex Driver Training was exceptional. The instructors were knowledgeable and supportive, making the learning experience enjoyable and effective."
D1+E Licence FAQs
Understand the rules, requirements and process for passing your C1+E licence first time.
Yes - the D1+E category is an upgrade to your existing minibus licence. You must already have passed your D1 practical test and hold that entitlement on your driving licence before you can train or take the D1+E test.
If you already hold a full D1 licence, you do not need to re-sit your theory or hazard perception tests when upgrading. Your existing driver theory qualifications for this category remain valid.
A D1+E licence allows you to drive a minibus with a trailer over 750kg MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass). The combined weight of the minibus and trailer must not exceed 12,000kg MAM. This opens up a lot of flexibility for carrying larger equipment, luggage, or specialist gear.
Training duration depends on your experience and confidence towing with a larger vehicle. For most D1 licence holders, a 2-3 day course is typical.
The D1+E test is taken at a DVSA test centre and includes:
- Reversing manoeuvre into a marked bay.
- Coupling and uncoupling the trailer safely.
- On road driving covering urban, rural and dual carriageway routes.
- You’ll be marked on safety, control and observation.
As with all LGV/PCV tests, 15 or more driving faults (minors) or any serious/dangerous fault will result in a fail.
The entitlement usually lasts until your 45th birthday if you’re under 45. From 45-65, it must be renewed every 5 years with a medical. Drivers aged 65+ must renew their medical annually to keep their licence.
Yes, you can request to use your own vehicle/trailer if you wish, but we must be satisfied with it complying with DVSA specifications.
Still have questions?
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