Drivers reaching the age of 70 will automatically lose their C1 and D1 driving licence entitlements under a little-known DVLA rule, affecting the ability to drive medium-sized lorries and minibuses. The change<｜begin▁of▁sentence｜># applies to all motorists renewing their licence at 70, as these categories are no longer automatically included.
What Entitlements Are Lost at 70
The C1 category covers medium-sized vehicles weighing between 3,500kg and 7,500kg, while the D1 category covers minibuses with between nine and 16 passenger seats. Drivers who passed their test before January 1997 were automatically granted these entitlements, but those who passed after that date were not.
To retain these categories after turning 70, drivers must complete a D2 application form and a D4 medical examination report. The process requires higher health and eyesight standards, according to the Older Drivers Forum.
Renewal Process and Restrictions
GOV.UK states that drivers wishing to retain C1 and D1 entitlements cannot do so online; only postal applications are accepted. A DVLA spokesperson said: “Drivers with C1 and D1 entitlements are required to renew these categories when they reach the age of 70, ensuring they meet the higher medical standards required to operate larger vehicles.”
The Older Drivers Forum noted: “Once you renew your licence at 70 years of age, you will automatically lose the C1 (Medium-sized vehicles between 3500kg and 7500kg) and D1 (Minibuses) categories on your licence. If you wish to still hold these, you will need to complete a D2 (Application Form) and a D4 (Medical Examination Report).”
Impact on Drivers
The forum also added that the C category is lost at 70, and drivers who wish to keep it must retake a test. However, drivers holding a B+E licence before their licence expired at 70 can continue to drive a vehicle weighing up to 3.5 tonnes with a trailer up to a maximum combination weight of 8.25 tonnes, once renewed.
