Self-Drive Minibus Hire in Yorkshire
Need a minibus but want to drive it yourself? Self-drive minibus hire is a cost-effective option for groups who have a confident driver with a standard UK driving licence. We list self-drive minibus operators across Yorkshire including Leeds, Sheffield, York, Hull, Bradford, Harrogate and beyond.
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What Licence Do You Need?
You can drive a minibus on a standard Category B car licence if the vehicle has no more than 8 passenger seats (plus the driver) and a Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) of no more than 3,500kg. For larger minibuses with 9-16 passenger seats, you may need a D1 licence category. If you passed your driving test before 1 January 1997, you should already have the D1 category on your licence. Drivers who passed after this date will need to check their licence or consider a smaller vehicle.
How Much Does Self-Drive Minibus Hire Cost?
Self-drive minibus hire in Yorkshire is significantly cheaper than hiring with a driver. A 9-seater minibus typically costs £80-£150 per day, while larger 12-15 seater vehicles range from £120-£200 per day. Weekend rates and weekly hire often offer better value, with weekly rates starting from around £380 for a 9-seater. Most operators require a security deposit (usually £250-£500) and you will need to arrange your own insurance or pay for the operator's cover.
Where Can I Hire a Self-Drive Minibus in Yorkshire?
Self-drive minibus hire is available across Yorkshire. The largest number of operators are based in Leeds, Sheffield and Bradford, but you will also find self-drive options in York, Hull, Doncaster, Huddersfield, Harrogate and Wakefield. Many operators will deliver the vehicle to your address or a convenient pick-up point for an additional fee.
What to Check Before Hiring
Before booking a self-drive minibus in Yorkshire, confirm the mileage allowance (some operators include unlimited mileage while others charge per mile after a set limit), check the fuel policy (most operate on a full-to-full basis), understand the insurance excess and what is covered, ask about breakdown cover, and inspect the vehicle for any existing damage before driving away. Taking photos of the vehicle at collection is always a good idea.
Popular Uses for Self-Drive Minibus Hire
Self-drive minibuses in Yorkshire are commonly hired for family days out to the Yorkshire Dales, Peak District or coast, group trips to York or Whitby, sports team transport, wedding guest transfers, festival and event transport, airport runs to Leeds Bradford Airport or Manchester Airport, and weekend getaways. The flexibility of driving yourself means you can plan your own itinerary and make stops wherever you like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a 12-seater minibus on a car licence?▼
It depends on when you passed your driving test. If you passed before 1 January 1997, your licence likely includes the D1 category which allows you to drive minibuses with up to 16 passenger seats. If you passed after this date, you can only drive vehicles with up to 8 passenger seats on a standard car licence.
What age do I need to be to hire a self-drive minibus?▼
Most Yorkshire minibus hire companies require the driver to be at least 25 years old with a minimum of 2 years driving experience. Some operators may accept drivers from age 21 with higher deposits or insurance excesses.
Is fuel included in self-drive minibus hire?▼
No, fuel is almost never included. Most operators use a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you collect the vehicle with a full tank and return it full. You are responsible for fuel costs during your hire period.
Can I take a self-drive minibus outside Yorkshire?▼
Yes, most operators allow travel anywhere within the UK. However, taking the vehicle abroad typically requires special permission and additional insurance. Always check with the operator before booking if you plan to travel outside Yorkshire.
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