In the UK, The Department for Transport recently engaged the public in a consultation seeking their opinions on potential changes to the driver's license regime. One of the proposed changes under consideration is allowing individuals who have passed their car driving test to operate vehicles weighing up to 7.5 tonnes, a significant increase from the current limit.

Results from the consultation revealed that a substantial majority, 69% of respondents favoured this change. However, there were also concerns about safety, with some respondents highlighting the notable differences in size and weight between these larger vehicles and standard cars, which could potentially lead to an increased risk of accidents.

Furthermore, 89% of respondents supported the idea of imposing an age restriction on individuals gaining the new entitlement upon passing a Category B driving test. There was also a consensus among respondents that there should be a minimum period that drivers must hold a standard car license before being permitted to drive a C1 vehicle, although opinions varied on the specific duration of this waiting period.

Advocates of the proposal believe that it could have a positive impact, potentially helping to address driver shortages and enhancing transport efficiency. However, some respondents expressed concerns about possible consequences, including anticipated increases in insurance premiums and additional training costs.

Currently, the Department for Transport is carefully reviewing the feedback and comments gathered during the consultation, and decisions about which changes to implement will be made in due course.