Just to clarify for future reference, what type of body isn't relevant, only the weight. So a standard van, luton/box van, dropside pickup, minibus etc, as long as they don't exceed 3.5 tonnes GVW, you can drive them on a standard car licence.

Also be aware of the lower national speed limit for vans, people have been caught out before.

Very true!.

Single carriageway roads are 50mph, dual carriageways are 60mph, but motorways still 70mph.

Single carriageway roads are 50mph, dual carriageways are 60mph, but motorways still 70mph.

Seems to be enforced very rarely.

I know a couple of people that have been caught out on single carriageways by automatic cameras identifying the type of vehicle from the number plate.

I've never had any problem hiring a van with a 'standard' driving licence.

That is because A, it is very unlikely you'll find a van with a GVW of more than 3.5 tonnes available for hire in most van hire companies (as it wouldn't earn its keep) and B, the hire companies look at and photocopy your licence (confirming that you do actually have one and are therefore OK to drive a van up to 3.5 tonnes) before you can hire one.

I guess the OP just wants to be sure

I've never had any problem hiring a van with a 'standard' driving licence.

Neither have I but I passed my test long before 1997. Although some vans (eg Merc Sprinters) can gross over 3.5tonnes they're unlikely to be available for public (as opposed to specialist) hire.

I've declined Lutons on several occasions in the eighties; what use are they except for lightweight bulk stuff?

Much easier with a Transit or Renault with a sliding door.

Edited by Bromptonaut on 04/10/2021 at 16:03