Lightweight Minibuses

Get in Touch Minibus Lite Flexilite Minibus

What do we mean by a lightweight minibus?

A lightweight minibus is a passenger carrying vehicle that has a maximum of 16 passenger seats. The maximum weight of a lightweight minibus is no more than 3.5 tonnes (or 4.25 tonnes when factoring in specialist equipment for carrying disabled passengers).

No manufacturer currently offers a factory-built minibus under 3.5 tonnes. Therefore, these lightweight minibuses are typically converted from a window or panel van by having the seats etc. fitted by an independent provider. This keeps the weight under the desired threshold.

Why is a lightweight minibus important?

Drivers who passed their driving test after January 1st 1997 will likely have a standard category B car licence. They can drive a minibus if they:

• are over 21 years of age
• are not using the vehicle for commercial purposes
• have held the driving licence for at least 2 years
• are under 70 (those over 70 will require additional health standards to be met first).

The minibus must have:

• a maximum of 16 passenger seats
• a maximum weight of 3.5 tonnes.

Typical factory-built minibuses usually exceed the weight limit, and thus a lightweight minibus is required.

Drivers who passed their driving test before January 1st 1997 will likely have a category D1 licence and are therefore qualified to drive a minibus that:

• weighs over 3.5 tonnes
• weighs under 7.5 tonnes
• has up to 16 passenger seats
• has a maximum length of 8 metres
• (optional) has a trailer up to 750kg
• is not used for commercial purposes.

The number of staff with only a standard category B car licence will only increase in the coming years, and by acquiring a lightweight minibus it means your staff will not require additional training or driving licence categories to be held before they can drive it.

It is important to check the criteria before driving a minibus. If in doubt, please contact our experts here.

What are your lightweight minibus options?

We have two main lightweight minibus products available: Minibus Lite, and Flexilite Minibus. Our experts will provide you with advice about each, so that you can choose the right one for you.

For more information, please click the buttons below.

Minibus Lite Flexilite Minibus

Want to discuss lightweight minibuses further?

That's what we're here for! Please get in touch with our friendly, knowledgeable team on 03330 918 562, minibus@jurnileasing.co.uk, or contact us here.