Driving licence change for electric vehicles takes effect
New Licensing Rules for Heavier Electric Vans Take Effect, With More Changes Expected
Published by Fleet Witness | May 2025
Starting today, June 10, new regulations come into force that make it easier for drivers to operate heavier electric vans and other zero-emission vehicles. These changes, first announced in February, align the licensing rules for electric vans with those for lighter petrol and diesel models, broadening the scope of vehicles that can be driven on a standard Category B license.
Under the new rules, drivers holding a standard B license can now operate electric vehicles weighing up to 4.25 tonnes, taking into account the additional weight of batteries. This update extends to various vehicle types—including vans, minibuses, SUVs, and trucks—that previously had a 3.5-tonne limit if petrol or diesel-powered.
What’s Changed?
One notable change is the removal of the five-hour additional training requirement previously needed for drivers of heavier electric vehicles. Additionally, regulations around towing have been relaxed: drivers can now tow trailers as long as the combined maximum authorized mass (MAM) of the vehicle and trailer does not exceed 7,000kg. For example, if a vehicle has a MAM of 4,250kg, the trailer’s MAM must stay below 2,750kg, with an absolute maximum trailer MAM limit of 3,500kg.
Drivers who passed their category B test before January 1, 1997, retain the ability to operate vehicle and trailer combinations up to 8.25 tonnes, offering further flexibility.
These changes build upon a temporary increase in the weight limit for zero-emission vans, which was raised from 3.5 tonnes to 4.25 tonnes back in 2018. However, industry experts note that additional regulations—such as annual vehicle testing, drivers’ hours, tachographs, and speed limiter requirements—still pose barriers to the widespread adoption of 4.25-tonne electric vans.
What's Next?
As the government prepares to clarify its next steps, the industry eagerly anticipates further updates that could make electric commercial vehicles more accessible and easier to operate, accelerating the move toward greener transportation solutions.
More Case Studies & Articles
Want To Learn More?
If you aspire to enhance your fleet operations, just like Verran Freight, take the first step today. Give us a call or drop us an email, and together we can explore how our solutions can transform your business. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to optimise your fleet’s performance and maximise your success.
Contact us now and unlock a new era of efficiency and profitability for your company.
