October 30, 2019 at 10:53 PM

Before you drive a van in the UK make sure you know the laws concerning your license and some of the differences in road law for vans vs cars. In the UK, speed limits and license requirements are different for vans and you need to know these before you set off behind the wheel.

What Types Of Van Can I Drive On My License

Yes, all drivers with a Full UK Drivers License can drive vans on public roads. This covers you for vans of up to 3,500kg in weight so make sure you check before buying or renting. Typically this will cover you for the standard trade van, the Ford Transit, for example, typically falls under the 3,500kg limit with only the 470 series breaching this limit.

The law does differ slightly depending on when you passed your test also. If you passed your test after 1st January 1997 then you may have to take extra tests to drive vehicles weighing over 3,500kg and under 7,500kg. It is also a requirement that you need to have your license certified to tow a trailer should your overall weight increase above 3,500kg.

Speed Limits for Vans

There are also different speed limits for vans which could catch you out and lead to points if you’re not aware. In built up areas there is no change but once you are on single and dual carriageways and on the motorway you need to be aware of differing limits.

Vans may only drive at 50mph on a single carriageway and at 60mph on a dual carriageway. On the motorway they have the same 70mph speed limit but not if the van is towing a trailer, the motorway speed limit under these circumstances are 60mph.

What Else Do I Need To Know About Driving A Van

If you’re driving a van for work and you are driving for more than 4 hours per day, then you must abide by Great Britains Domestic Rules for Driving.

There is an also an upper limit of 10 hours of driving in a 24 hour window and a total limit of 11 hours of duty so you can’t work for more than 1 hour out with your driving to further avoid fatigue.

It is also worth while paying extra attention to the condition of your van as they are more likely to be stopped by police in the event of roadside checks or being stopped to assess their condition.


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