Long Wheelbase Van FAQs

We're here to answer your frequently asked questions about long wheelbase vans to make your search for the perfect van that little bit easier.

What does wheelbase mean?

‘Wheelbase’ refers to the distance between the centre of the front wheels and the centre of the rear wheels. A long wheelbase van will have a larger distance between these two points than a short wheelbase van.

What driving licence do I need?

As long as the maximum authorised vehicle weight isn’t above 3,500kg, you can drive any long wheelbase van on a regular (Category B) UK car driving licence. If the weight is larger than 3,500kg, you’ll need a Category C1 licence, which is a goods vehicle licence.

For those of you who passed your test prior to 1^st January 1997, you will automatically have a Category C1 licence which allows you to drive a vehicle and trailer combination up to a maximum authorised mass of 8,250kg. If you passed after this date, you’ll need to apply for a provisional C1 licence and take a theory and practical test, just like with a normal car licence.

How much is tax?

There is currently a fixed-rate tax for light goods vehicles up to 3,500kg maximum authorised mass weight, meaning all vans cost exactly the same in road tax (VED).

For fully electric vans, there is no road tax cost, though this is planned to change in 2025 with the introduction of Vehicle Excise Duty for zero emission cars, vans and motorcycles.

What does payload mean?

The payload is the amount you’re legally allowed to carry in the van, including people. Every van will have a specific payload rating. This can be found on the weight plate, which is usually under the bonnet.

What’s the speed limit?

As a general rule, goods vehicles up to 3,500kg follow the same speed limits as cars up to 50mph, after which they are generally 10mph slower. For example, on a single carriageway, the speed limit for vans is 50mph, whereas cars have a 60mph speed limit. On dual carriageways, vans have a 60mph limit where cars have a 70mph limit. However, on a motorway, the limit is 70mph, the same as a car.

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