Full list of new driving licence rules from June 10

Certain motorists will enjoy additional driving licence freedoms within days, with new rules coming into effect in June. According to the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles, road users will be able to drive heavier vehicles under major new plans.

Motorists within a category B driving licence will be able to get behind the wheel of heavier electric cars and hydrogen vehicles with a weight of up to 4,250kg. Under current rules, the Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) for combustion vehicles is 3,500kg, with the new rules extending the weight limit. Electric vehicles are usually heavier than petrol, and diesel machines with battery technology heavier than fuel tanks.

Outlining the plans, the Office for Zero Emissions Vehicles said: “From 10 June, if you hold a category B driving licence, you can drive an electric or hydrogen-powered vehicle with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of up to 4,250kg. The vehicle must be a zero-emission vehicle.

“The normal MAM limit for petrol and diesel vehicles with a category B licence is 3,500kg.

“This additional weight allowance will apply to vehicle types you can usually drive using a category B licence.

“These are vehicles designed for carrying up to 8 passengers and include cars, SUVs, vans and small trucks.”

According to officials, road users will be able to get behind vehicles with a MAM of up to 5,000kg if the vehicles are fitted with additional specialist equipment to support disabled passengers.

However, the extra 750kg must be attributable to the specialist equipment installed for this purpose.

Meanwhile, the new rules will also allow category B licence holders to drive an electric or hydrogen-powered minibus up to 4,250kg MAM.

Again, this can be extended to 5,000kg if the vehicle is fitted with additional specialist equipment for disabled passengers.

The new rules will also allow individuals to tow a trailer as long as the MAM of the vehicle and trailer combination does not exceed 7,000kg.

According to Government officials, road users will not be required to undergo any changes to their photocard driving licence to enjoy access to the entitlement.

Almost all road users hold a category B driving licence as it is the one handed out after passing a theory and practical test.

Motorists will need to secure a C1 or C1E provision if they want to drive heavy vehicles such as lorries.

• Drivers can get behind the wheel of heavier electric and hydrogen vehicles with a weight of up to 4,250kg.
• If the vehicle has additional specialist equipment to support disabled passengers, it can have a MAM of up to 5,000kg.
• You can also drive an electric or hydrogen-powered minibus up to 4,250kg MAM.
• You will be able to tow a trailer as long as the MAM of the vehicle and trailer combination does not exceed 7,000kg.