D1 (minibus / small passenger transport) 🚐

Everything about the theory test and the driving licence for category D1 in Switzerland – for smaller buses and passenger transport up to 16 people.

With category D1 you may drive motor vehicles for passenger transport with a maximum of 16 seats (excluding the driver's seat).

👉 This category is ideal for smaller groups, shuttle services and specialised passenger transport.

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🚐 What is category D1?

Category D1 entitles you to drive motor vehicles for passenger transport with a maximum of 16 seats (excluding the driver's seat).

It forms the link between category B (car) and category D (bus).

💡 D1 is particularly suitable if you want to transport smaller groups without driving a large bus.


🚗 Typical vehicles of category D1

Many vehicles used in everyday and professional life fall into category D1:

  • minibuses and small buses
  • hotel and airport shuttles
  • school and club vehicles
  • transport vehicles for smaller groups
  • special vehicles in passenger transport

👉 These vehicles are often used for flexible and local transport.


🔗 What is category D1E?

Category D1E extends category D1 and allows you to drive vehicles with a trailer.

Typical applications are:

  • small buses with luggage trailer
  • shuttle vehicles with additional storage space
  • vehicle combinations in the leisure or club sector

💡 D1E is particularly relevant when additional material or luggage has to be transported.


🧠 What do you learn for the theory test?

The theory test for category D1 builds on the car theory but extends it with important content for passenger transport.

  • traffic rules and signalling
  • responsibility towards passengers
  • safe boarding and alighting
  • driving behaviour with larger vehicles
  • anticipatory and defensive driving
  • vehicle checks

This content is decisive for the safety of your passengers.


⚖️ Difference to category D

The most important difference between D1 and D lies in the number of people:

  • D1: up to 16 people → smaller vehicles
  • D: more than 16 people → large buses

👉 D1 is ideal for smaller transport, whereas D is used for classic bus transport.

→ More about category D (bus)


✅ How e.driver supports you

With e.driver Professional you prepare specifically for category D1:

  • structured learning path
  • easy-to-understand content for passenger transport
  • exam-like questions
  • learn on the app and web app

❓ Frequently asked questions about D1

When do I need category D1?

If you want to transport more than 8 but a maximum of 16 people, e.g. with a small bus.

What is the difference to category B?

With category B you may only drive vehicles for up to 8 people. D1 extends this to up to 16 people.

Is D1 easier than D?

D1 is designed for smaller vehicles and is generally less complex than category D.

Do I need D1E?

Only if you also want to use a trailer.

Can I drive professionally with D1?

Yes, e.g. in the shuttle, hotel or club sector.


🎯 Your next step

Start now with your preparation for category D1.

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