British and European Coach Travel.
What does P.C.V. and L.G.V. mean?
Do I need a licence before I can learn to drive?
How old must I be, before I can learn to drive a P.C.V. or L.G.V.?
Can I take the theory test after my driving test?
What other types of driving licence are there?
P.C.V. stands for "Passenger Carrying Vehicle" and L.G.V. stands for "Large Goods Vehicle", formally known as P.S.V. "Public Service Vehicle" and H.G.V. "Heavy Goods Vehicle".
Yes, you cannot drive a P.C.V. or L.G.V. unless you hold the appropriate licence, to obtain the licence, you must first hold a full "Category B" driving licence ( car licence ), you must then obtain a provisional P.C.V. or L.G.V. licence. To obtain either, you must complete the necessary application form, and undertake a medical examination, then send the completed forms and the fee ( currently £21-00 ) to the D.V.L.A. in Swansea. You can obtain the necessary licence application form and the D4 medical form from your local post office.
18 years of age for a P.C.V. with restrictions, and 21 years of age for a L.G.V.
Can I take the theory test, after my driving test?
No, as from the 1st of August 1997, you will have to take it before your driving test.
What other types of licence are there?
Category C1, large goods vehicle over 3.5 tonne, but under 7.5 tonne. Category D1, passenger carring vehicle over 8 seats, but under 16 seats excluding driver. Before a P.C.V. of 16 seats or less can be driven, the driver must hold a "category D1" licence for private use only. New drivers from January 1997 must be over 21 years of age, and hold a full current licence for two years.