Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. What Is a Commercial Van in Ireland?

3. Licence Categories Explained

4. Minimum Age to Drive Vans in Ireland

5. Van Sizes and What You’re Allowed to Drive

6. Summary Table by Size and Licence

7. Insurance and Rental Conditions

8. Frequently Asked Questions

9. Conclusion

1. Introduction

In Ireland, driving a van is common for tradespeople, couriers, small businesses, and anyone moving goods. However, the rules around what size van you can drive (and what type of licence you need) depend on several factors, including weight, volume, and your age and experience as a driver.

This guide breaks down the legal requirements clearly, so you know exactly where you stand.

2. What Is a Commercial Van in Ireland?

A commercial van, officially known as a light commercial vehicle (LCV), is generally defined as a goods vehicle with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) not exceeding 3,500 kg (3.5 tonnes).

If a van exceeds that weight limit, it’s no longer considered a light goods vehicle and different rules apply.

The van’s volume (measured in cubic metres – m³) is not directly regulated by law, but it’s often used as an indicator of load capacity. The key legal metric is MAM – maximum authorised mass.

3. Licence Categories Explained

Here are the relevant licence categories under Irish law:

Category B – Standard Car Licence

• Covers vehicles up to 3,500 kg MAM

• Allows you to drive most vans up to 20m³, provided they stay within the weight limit

• No additional qualifications required

Category C1 – Medium Goods Vehicles

• For vehicles between 3,500 kg and 7,500 kg MAM

• Typically required for larger box vans or Luton-style trucks

• Requires a separate theory test, medical exam, and practical driving test

• Minimum age: 18

Category C – Rigid Trucks

• For vehicles over 3,500 kg with no upper limit

• Suitable for very large vans, rigid trucks, and HGVs

• Minimum age: 21

• Includes professional driver training (CPC) if used commercially

4. Minimum Age to Drive Vans in Ireland

• You can legally drive a Category B van from age 17

• However, to rent a van, most companies require you to be at least 22 years old and have held your full licence for at least 2 years

• For Category C1 vehicles, the minimum age is 18 (with conditions)

• For Category C, the minimum age is 21

5. Van Sizes and What You’re Allowed to Drive

Below is a breakdown of van sizes commonly available in Ireland and the licence you need for each.

Small Vans (3–6 m³)

• Examples: Citroën Berlingo, Volkswagen Caddy

• Weight: Usually under 2.5 tonnes

• Licence: Category B

• Age: 17+ (22+ for rentals)

Medium Vans (6–12 m³)

• Examples: Renault Trafic, Ford Transit Custom

• Weight: Around 2.5–3 tonnes

• Licence: Category B

• Age: 22+ for rentals

• Ideal for trades or small deliveries

Large Vans (12–15 m³)

• Examples: Mercedes Sprinter L3, Fiat Ducato L3H2

• Weight: Up to 3.5 tonnes

• Licence: Category B (as long as MAM is not exceeded)

• Watch for payload limits when fully loaded

Extra Large Vans (15–20 m³)

• Examples: Renault Master L4H3, Iveco Daily L4

• Weight: Often close to 3.5 tonnes

• Licence: Still Category B if under 3.5t

• Some models require Category C1

• Important to check MAM before hiring or driving

Box Vans / Luton Vans / Small Trucks (20m³+)

• Examples: Iveco Eurocargo, DAF LF

• Weight: Typically over 3.5 tonnes

• Licence: Category C1 or C

• Used for large-scale removals or logistics

• Cannot be driven on a Category B licence

6. Summary Table – Licence by Van Size and Weight

7. Insurance and Rental Considerations

• A commercial van insurance policy is required if you’re using the vehicle for work or business purposes

• For private use, standard motor insurance must specify van usage

• Most rental companies will require:

  • Minimum age 22

  • Full Category B licence held for 2 years

  • Valid credit card and deposit

  • Clean driving record

8. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive a 15m³ van on a Category B licence in Ireland?
Yes – as long as its maximum authorised mass (MAM) is under 3.5 tonnes.

What’s the largest van I can drive with a car licence?