Driving license class D1: requirements, costs and vehicles

Everything about class D1: requirements, minimum age, training, testing, costs and permitted minibuses with up to 16 passenger seats. Compare driving schools on VEHI.

Find driving schools for class D1 by city

Choose a city and start directly with the appropriate pre-selection for driving license class D1.

Find driving schools for class D1 driving licenses

At D1, training quality, suitable minibuses and reliable scheduling are crucial. A comparison will help you find suitable schools with a clear cost structure.

What is class D1 driving license?

D1 is the driving license for smaller buses with a limited number of passengers (typically up to 16 seats for passengers plus the driver's seat). It is below the large class D.

Classification:

  • D1: small bus frame
  • D: large bus class
  • D1E: D1 with trailer extension

When can you get a class D1 driving license?

The minimum age is usually 21 years. Under certain professional conditions, an earlier start may be possible.

Typical requirements in planning:

  • existing basic driving license (usually B)
  • medical and ophthalmological suitability
  • timely coordination of training and authorities

Which vehicles can you drive with a class D1 driving license?

With D1 you are allowed to drive smaller buses within the legally defined limits.

Typical uses:

  • small shuttle and transfer trips
  • Transport of limited groups of people
  • institutional transport services

Class D is required for larger buses.

Requirements for driving license class D1

Typical requirements:

  • Minimum age according to regulations
  • existing driving license (usually B)
  • medical suitability
  • Vision certificates
  • Registration at driving school
  • Application at the driving license office

Training for driving license class D1

The training combines theory and practice on smaller bus vehicles. The main focuses are:

  • safe passenger transport
  • proactive, calm driving style
  • Maneuvering and vehicle overview
  • Behavior at breakpoints
  • Safety in city traffic

Structured training reduces uncertainty in later driving operations.

Test for driving license class D1

Theory test The theory test covers general and class-specific content on passenger transport and safety.

Practical exam The practical test assesses vehicle control, traffic observation and passenger-friendly behavior. A safe, consistent driving style is crucial.

How much does a class D1 driving license cost?

The costs vary depending on the region and scope of training.

Typical cost points:

  • Basic amount and theory
  • practical driving lessons
  • Examination fees
  • medical/governmental evidence

The total costs are often between 3,000 and 6,500 euros.

Difference to other driving license classes

D1: small bus D: large bus class D1E: D1 with trailer EN: large bus class with trailer

D1 is the appropriate class for many applications below the large bus dimensions.

Conclusion: For whom is class D1 driving license useful?

D1 makes sense for everyone who wants to drive smaller buses professionally and safely without directly needing the full class D.

On VEHI you can compare driving schools for class D1 and choose the training that suits your goals in terms of subject matter and organization.

Is D1 enough for all bus jobs?

No, that depends on the vehicle size and application profile. For larger buses you need D.

Is D1 cheaper than D?

Often yes, as the scope of the vehicle and training is usually smaller.

Why compare driving schools?

The quality of teaching, type of vehicle and examination organization differ significantly.

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