New rules have been unveiled for people driving electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles, which could impact thousands of motorists across the UK.
From June 10, 2025, Britons holding a category B driving licence can drive electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of up to 4,250kg.
This represents a huge policy change compared to petrol and diesel vehicles, as the MAM limit for category B licences is 3,500kg.
New guidance from the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles outlined the changes to driving licence entitlements for zero emission vehicles earlier today.
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The new driving licence rules will be introduced in June
PA
The additional weight allowance will apply to vehicle types which can usually be driven using a category B licence.
This includes vehicles carrying up to eight passengers, cars, SUVs, vans and small trucks.
A further measure would allow some drivers to operate a vehicle with a MAM of up to 5,000kg when supporting disabled passengers.
However, the extra 750kg must be attributable to specialist equipment included in the vehicle, or it could fall foul of the rules.
Motorists can also drive an electric or hydrogen fuel cell minibus with a MAM of up to 4,250kg, although they must fulfil additional requirements when using their category B licence.
Drivers must be at least 21, have held their licence for at least two years, meet "Group 2" medical standards, drive the minibus on a voluntary basis and are not towing a trailer.
The new guidance also confirmed that there will not be any changes to a driver's photocard licence to reflect the additional entitlement.
Older drivers who passed their category B practical test before January 1, 1997, are able to operate vehicle and trailer combinations up to 8,250kg.
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If someone has passed their test on or after January 1, 1997, they can drive vehicles up to 3,500kg MAM with up to eight passenger seats.
They can also tow a trailer that weighs up to 3,500kg MAM, while also allowing them to drive motor tricycles with a power output higher than 15kW if they are older than 21.
Guidance advises motorists to ensure they are confident when driving an electric or hydrogen fuel cell vehicle on a public road before they set off.
Suggestions include making sure they are familiar when using their vehicle controls, practising in a safe and controlled environment, and ensuring they are up-to-date with the Highway Code.
Motorists can tow different weights depending on when they passed their driving tests
PADrivers who passed their test after January 19, 2013, may see category BE on their licence, allowing them to drive a vehicle with a MAM of 3,500kg with a trailer.
If the BE "valid from" date is before January 19, 2013, they can tow any size trailer within the towing limits of their vehicle.
Anyone who has passed their test on or after this deadline can tow a trailer with a MAM of up to 3,500kg within the towing limits of the vehicle.
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