FAQs

FAQs

We know you may have questions, whether you’re hiring a minibus, booking a chauffeur-driven trip, or planning a journey overseas. This page brings together the most-common queries we receive from customers.

Are there any age restrictions to drive a minibus?

YES.

  • Drivers must be aged between 30 – 70.
  • Drivers over 70 can be referred to our insurers for clearance.

Please also note the following criteria:

Non UK licence holders will need to contact our office on 020 8335 0060 or via email rental@bellsbuses.co.uk to discuss terms of cover

Drivers need to have held a full UK licence for a minimum of 2 years

No more than 6 penalty points under 5 years and no bans under 10 years

No more than 1 accident in the last 3 years

All drivers of our 17 seat and Wheelchair Accessible buses MUST hold a D1 category licence

What licence do I need to drive a minibus?

Drivers need to have held a full UK licence for a minimum of 2 years

All drivers of our 17 seat and Wheelchair Accessible buses MUST hold a D1 category licence

Non UK licence holders will need to contact our office on 020 8335 0060 or via email rental@bellsbuses.co.uk to discuss terms of cover.

In addition, the following criteria apply to all drivers:

No more than 1 accident within the last 3 years

Aged between 30 – 70; drivers over 70 can be referred to our insurers for clearance

No more than 6 penalty points under 5 years and no bans under 10 years

Do you have wheelchair accessible minibuses?

Yes, but these are not available for self-drive hire as the machinery needs to be operated by trained personnel.

Can I drive the minibus abroad?

YES. However, there are some restrictions, so please enquire.

Whether you are going on a ski holiday to the Alps or on a tour of Europe we will tailor a package to meet your requirements.

We offer an all-inclusive European package that includes everything you will need to drive safely and legally in Europe.

This includes:

AA European Travel Kit – which includes: hazard warning triangle, magnetic GB plate, universal bulb kit, drivers handbook, reflective emergency jacket, first aid kit and headlamp beam converters

Green Card – insurance certificate for travelling abroad

AA European Breakdown Assistance – additional breakdown cover

VE103B Document – our authorisation for you to take the vehicle abroad

What ID will I need when I pick up the minibus?

All named drivers will require the following forms of ID:

Full UK Driving Licence – note: DVLA licence check code required – this can be obtained here – https://www.gov.uk/view-driving-licence

2 Utility Bills which prove your address (Bank statement and a phone or electric bill etc.)

1 Photo ID (Passport required for drivers holding the old style paper licence and all hires going to Europe)