B licence vs D1 licence
Comparison for drivers moving from car to small-passenger transport. B authorises cars up to 9 seats (driver included). D1 expands to buses up to 16 seats plus driver, requires B first, age 21+, a specific exam and a reinforced medical exam. Typical for school minibuses and short routes.
| Feature | BB Licence - Car | D1D1 Licence - Minibus |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum age | 18 years | 21 years |
| Authorised vehicles | Passenger vehicles up to 3,500 kg and up to 8 passengers besides the driver. | Minibuses carrying up to 16 passengers and measuring up to 8 metres in length. |
| Exam questions | 30 | 20 |
| Exam time | 30 min | 20 min |
| Max errors | 3 | 2 |
| Options per question | 3 | 3 |
Requirements and tests: B vs D1
The D1 requires a valid B and raises the standard minimum age from 18 to 21, with a CAP exception from 18 (until 21 only in Spain). The B general theory test becomes the specific one, and validity under 65 falls from 10 to 5 years.
| Requirement | B | D1 |
|---|---|---|
| Previous licence | No previous licence is required. | You need a valid B licence. |
| Theory | General | Specific |
| Practical | Closed track and road | Closed track and road |
| Fee | 94,05 € (2.1) | 94,05 € (2.1) |
| Validity (under 65 / from 65) | 10 / 5 years | 5 / 3 years |
| Age exceptions | — | From age 18 with the ordinary initial CAP professional qualification; until age 21 these vehicles may only be driven in Spain. |
Data from RD 818/2009 and the DGT website, reviewed on 13 October 2026. Independent site, not affiliated with the DGT.
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Prefer to read first? Question bank: B questions · D1 questions
B Licence - Car
Passenger cars and light vehicles up to 3,500 kg.
See syllabus & testD1 Licence - Minibus
Vehicles for up to 16 passengers besides the driver.
See syllabus & testFrequently asked questions
What is the minimum age for each?
B licence: age 18. D1 licence: age 21.
How is the DGT theory exam in each case?
B: 30 questions, 30 minutes, max 3 errors. D1: 20 questions, 20 minutes, max 2 errors.
What vehicles can I drive with each licence?
B: Passenger vehicles up to 3,500 kg and up to 8 passengers besides the driver. D1: Minibuses carrying up to 16 passengers and measuring up to 8 metres in length.
Which one should I get first?
If by age you can only access the B (minimum age 18), start there and consider stepping up to the D1 when you reach 21. If you already have the age for both, going straight to the D1 is usually more cost-effective (one training, one exam, one fee) — the B loses relative value if the D1 covers every vehicle you're interested in.
What is required for the D1 if I already hold the B?
For the D1: You need a valid B licence. Tests: Specific theory test. Practical closed-track and road tests. For the B: No previous licence is required. Check current conditions on the DGT website before enrolling.
What does the fee cost and how long is each licence valid?
Fee 2.1 for the B: EUR 94.05 covering two attempts. Fee 2.1 for the D1: EUR 94.05 covering two attempts. Validity under 65: B, 10 years; D1, 5 years. It may be shortened for medical reasons.