Licence changes for large electric vans to come into effect in June

Fri, 30 May 2025

Changes to driving licence regulations will come into effect on June 10, 2025, to encourage the uptake of more large electric and hydrogen-powered vans.
The licence changes will remove the need for drivers to undergo extra training before driving vans with these fuel types, weighing up to 4.25 tonnes.
Currently, models such as the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter and soon-to-arrive Vauxhall Movano Hydrogen require drivers to undertake additional training to drive vans over 3.5 tonnes, but this requirement will be removed in a bid to encourage more van users to consider alternative fuels.
Alternatively fuelled vans weighing from 3.5 tonnes to 4.25 tonnes already have a gross vehicle weight derogation that enables individuals with a category B (passenger car) licence to drive them, but drivers need to do five hours of additional training before being permitted to drive them.
The amendment covers vans, minibuses, trucks and any vehicle that you can usually drive using a category B licence up to 3.5 tonnes. The rule change will also allow drivers to tow with 4.25-tonne vehicles
Drivers will also be able to tow using a 4.25-tonne ZEV, providing that the MAM of the vehicle and trailer combination does not exceed seven tonnes.