D1 licence vs D licence
Professional passenger-transport licences. D1 allows buses up to 16 seats (plus driver) from age 21. D has no seat limit but requires age 24 (or 21 with intensive CAP). D1 is typical for school minibuses and short routes; D is for line buses.
| Feature | D1D1 Licence - Minibus | DD Licence - Bus |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum age | 21 years | 24 years |
| Authorised vehicles | Minibuses carrying up to 16 passengers and measuring up to 8 metres in length. | Buses and coaches for more than 8 passengers. |
| Exam questions | 20 | 20 |
| Exam time | 20 min | 20 min |
| Max errors | 2 | 2 |
| Options per question | 3 | 3 |
Requirements and tests: D1 vs D
The D1 covers up to sixteen passengers plus the driver and eight metres of length; the D, more than eight passengers. The standard minimum age rises from 21 to 24, and a valid D1 exempts you from the D specific theory test. Both have CAP exceptions.
| Requirement | D1 | D |
|---|---|---|
| Previous licence | You need a valid B licence. | You need a valid B licence. |
| Theory | Specific | Specific |
| Practical | Closed track and road | Closed track and road |
| Fee | 94,05 € (2.1) | 94,05 € (2.1) |
| Validity (under 65 / from 65) | 5 / 3 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. | With ordinary CAP: age 21; in Spain, age 20, or age 18 without passengers or on regular services of up to 50 km. With accelerated CAP: age 23, or age 21 for regular services of up to 50 km. |
Data from RD 818/2009 and the DGT website, reviewed on 13 October 2026. Independent site, not affiliated with the DGT.
Practice the test for whichever licence you pick
Free DGT 2026 test with exam-style questions for both licences. No signup.
Prefer to read first? Question bank: D1 questions · D questions
D1 Licence - Minibus
Vehicles for up to 16 passengers besides the driver.
See syllabus & testD Licence - Bus
Vehicles for more than 8 passengers besides the driver.
See syllabus & testFrequently asked questions
What is the minimum age for each?
D1 licence: age 21. D licence: age 24.
How is the DGT theory exam in each case?
D1: 20 questions, 20 minutes, max 2 errors. D: 20 questions, 20 minutes, max 2 errors.
What vehicles can I drive with each licence?
D1: Minibuses carrying up to 16 passengers and measuring up to 8 metres in length. D: Buses and coaches for more than 8 passengers.
Which one should I get first?
If by age you can only access the D1 (minimum age 21), start there and consider stepping up to the D when you reach 24. If you already have the age for both, going straight to the D is usually more cost-effective (one training, one exam, one fee) — the D1 loses relative value if the D covers every vehicle you're interested in.
What is required for the D if I already hold the D1?
For the D: You need a valid B licence. Tests: Specific theory test. Practical closed-track and road tests. A valid D1 licence exempts you from the specific theory test. For the D1: You need a valid B licence. 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 D1: EUR 94.05 covering two attempts. Fee 2.1 for the D: EUR 94.05 covering two attempts. Validity under 65: D1, 5 years; D, 5 years. It may be shortened for medical reasons.