Professional use
D1 Licence for Taxi and Airport Transfer Drivers
Taxi and airport transfer drivers may need D1 when moving into larger passenger vehicles for group bookings and airport runs.
- D1 minibus guidance
- North West training context
- Practical next steps

Plain-English D1 guidance
Written for learners comparing minibus, PCV, taxi, school, care and community transport requirements.
Linked to practical training
Each guide connects the rule or question to the medical, theory, practical training, 3A and 3B test pathway.
North West context
Advice is framed around learners using Wigan and Chorley depots, with arrangements confirmed around availability.
Why private hire drivers ask about D1
Airport transfer and private hire work can involve larger vehicles with 9 to 16 passenger seats. In that situation, D1 is the vehicle category to check.
You should also check local authority private hire licensing, insurance, operator requirements and whether Driver CPC is needed for your role.
Training focus for transfer work
Airport and private hire driving often needs smooth motorway driving, urban planning, pick-up and drop-off confidence and careful passenger comfort.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Does a taxi badge include D1?
No. Taxi or private hire licensing is separate from the driving licence category needed for the vehicle.
Can D1 help me take larger airport bookings?
It can be part of that route if the vehicle is a 9 to 16 passenger seat minibus, but local licensing and CPC checks may also apply.
Related pages
Related D1 pages
Continue your D1 research or move straight into a practical training enquiry.
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Send your vehicle, passenger-seat count and intended use. We will help you understand the practical next step.
Enquiry form
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Tell us what you need D1 for and we will help you take the next step.
- Our D1 1-Day Practical Training Course + PCV Starter Package is currently £1,094 including VAT, reduced from £1,249.
- Medical, theory, practical training, 3A and 3B tests included
- Coverage for Wigan and the wider North West
