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EV & Sustainability

Category B driving licence permitted to drive zero emissions vehicles (ZEV) up to 4,250kg

New DVLA rule allows post-1997 category B licence holders to drive heavier electric or hydrogen vehicles from today.

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Drivers holding a standard category B licence can now operate zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of up to 4,250kg, following a regulatory update that comes into effect today, 10th June 2025.

The change applies specifically to electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles, recognising the added weight of battery and fuel cell systems. Previously, the upper limit for such drivers was 3,500kg, with any vehicle above that threshold requiring additional training and entitlement. That restriction still remains in place for all other vehicle types, including hybrids.

According to the DVLA, the adjustment reflects “the increased mass of batteries and fuel cells in electric vehicles” and aims to enable wider adoption without compromising vehicle payloads or requiring operators to split deliveries across multiple vehicles.

Aaron Peters, head of technical, engineering and policy at the Road Haulage Association (RHA), said: “The increased weight limits allow for the additional weight of batteries and fuel systems in electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles without reducing payload capacity. For operators this can improve operational efficiency and reduce the need for multiple trips.”

Peters added: “Encouraging the use of ZEVs and AFVs aligns with broader environmental goals, reducing emissions and promoting cleaner transportation options within the haulage industry.”

The change applies only to drivers who passed their test on or after 1st January 1997. Those who passed before that date already benefit from more permissive licence terms, typically allowing vehicle and trailer combinations up to 8,250kg MAM.

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