Government reviewing CTA’s proposal to tackle minibus driver shortages

The Department for Transport (DfT) is actively reviewing CTA’s proposal for a more accessible route into minibus driving, Transport Minister Simon Lightwood MP has confirmed.

The announcement came during a House of Commons adjournment debate on Tuesday 3 November 2026, secured by Freddie van Mierlo MP, which focused on the growing shortage of qualified Community Transport minibus drivers.

Responding to the debate, the Minister acknowledged the pressures facing the sector and CTA’s work to develop a practical proposal for change. He confirmed:

“The Department is aware of that proposal and we are actively reviewing it.”

Why the sector needs change

Community Transport helps people reach healthcare, shops, work and other essential services, as well as stay connected with friends, family and their communities. These services are particularly important for older and disabled people and those living in rural areas with limited public transport.

However, the sector faces a growing shortage of drivers with D1 entitlement, the licence category needed to drive many Community Transport minibuses.

Many operators rely on drivers who gained this entitlement automatically when they passed their car driving test before 1997, often referred to as ‘grandfather rights’. As this generation gets older, the pool of available drivers is shrinking, with too few new drivers coming through to replace them.

MPs also highlighted the financial barriers facing charities, community organisations and volunteers. Obtaining a full D1 licence can cost £1,000–£2,000, making it difficult for operators to recruit and train the drivers they need.

A practical route for the next generation

CTA’s D1 White Paper sets out a proposal for a more accessible, training-based upgrade from a standard car licence to D1(101), supported by appropriate safeguards.

The proposed route would use recognised, assessed training, such as the Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme (MiDAS) or an equivalent programme, to help more people qualify to drive Community Transport minibuses.

During the debate, Freddie van Mierlo highlighted that a training-based approach could bring costs below £300, making the route more affordable for organisations and volunteers.

Explaining the urgency of reform, Freddie van Mierlo MP warned:

“We are therefore facing a ticking time bomb…”

Turning the review into action

The Minister’s confirmation is a welcome step for the campaign. He also emphasised that any changes to licensing arrangements would need to be assessed carefully for their impact on road and passenger safety.

CTA will continue to engage with the DfT and parliamentarians to press for progress, a clear timetable and practical action. A sustainable route for the next generation of qualified minibus drivers is essential to protecting the services communities rely on.

Thank you to Freddie van Mierlo MP for securing the debate, Tessa Munt MP and all the MPs who contributed and championed the importance of Community Transport.

Find out more about our D1 campaign and read the White Paper.

Watch the debate on Parliament TV, starting at 20:08:24, or read the full debate on Hansard.