The changes will be introduced impacting driving licence entitlements for certain zero emission vehicles. Road users are being urged to be aware of the changes
A fresh driving licence regulation is set to be implemented in the UK this week. From yesterday (June 10) alterations have been made affecting driving licence entitlements for specific zero-emission vehicles, with motorists being encouraged to stay informed.
Those holding a category B licence are permitted to operate an electric or hydrogen vehicle with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of up to 4,250kg. Category B – if you passed your test before 1 January 1997 – typically allows you to drive a vehicle and trailer combination up to 8,250kg MAM. You’re also permitted to drive a minibus with a trailer exceeding 750kg MAM.
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Category B – if you passed your test on or after 1 January 1997 – means you can operate vehicles up to 3,500kg MAM with up to 8 passenger seats. You can tow a trailer weighing up to 3,500kg MAM.
If you are over 21 years old, you can drive motor tricycles with a power output greater than 15kW. Physically disabled drivers with provisional category B entitlement will also have provisional entitlement to ride category A1 or A motor tricycles, reports Birmingham Live.
Category B auto means you can operate a category B vehicle – but only an automatic one. Category BE means you can drive a vehicle with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of 3,500kg with a trailer.
The size of the trailer depends on the BE ‘valid from’ date shown on your licence. If the date is prior to 19 January 2013, you can tow any size trailer within the towing limits of the vehicle.
If it is on or after 19 January 2013, you can tow a trailer with a MAM of up to 3,500kg within the towing limits of the vehicle.
The category B licence applies to motorists who have passed their practical driving test, although their permissions will depend on when they passed their test.
