The minibus, for smaller groups
When the group is under about 16, a minibus does the work of a coach at a smaller size. Seat count: 9 to 17, the driver's seat among them.
People, bags and narrow streets
The luggage space is at the rear, and it shrinks as the seats fill. For an airport run with a full group and large cases, ask about the luggage room, or step up to a midi-coach. For a day out with only day bags, a full minibus is fine.
Some local rules favour the smaller vehicle. In Cannes, the Croix des Gardes district is closed to coaches but open to vehicles of 20 seats or fewer. Low-emission zones still apply. In Lyon, a vehicle of up to 9 seats registered as a car follows the car rules, which bar Crit'Air 3, 4, 5 and unclassified vehicles.
Capacity
- Seats: 9-17 including the driver
- Luggage: Rear luggage space; limited when every seat is taken
Rules and equipment
- Category D1 covers passenger vehicles of up to 17 seats including the driver and up to 8 m long; the minimum age is 21, or lower on a professional driver course
- A D or D1 licence needs a medical check with an approved doctor, and is renewed every 5 years (more often from age 60)
- Carried for hire, a minibus with more than 9 seats including the driver comes under the licence communautaire; one with 9 seats or fewer comes under the licence de transport intérieur
- Every passenger must wear a seat belt where the seat has one
- In vehicles other than public transport, the driver must make sure every passenger under 18 uses a child restraint or a seat belt; children under 10 use an approved child restraint suited to their size
Licence, belts and young passengers
The driver holds category D1, which stops at 17 seats (driver counted) and 8 m long, and is open from age 21. Holders pass a medical with an approved doctor and renew every 5 years. A hired minibus above 9 seats, driver counted, runs under the licence communautaire; a smaller one, of 9 seats or less, falls under the licence de transport intérieur.
Every passenger buckles up where a belt is fitted. Outside public transport vehicles, the driver checks that anyone under 18 has a belt or child restraint, and that children under 10 sit in an approved restraint suited to their size.
Organisers ask
Is a minibus right for a sports team?
Often, for a squad of up to 16 with staff. Kit bags end up on seats once the rear space is full, so count the bags as well as the players.
Is a Crit'Air sticker needed on a minibus?
Yes, to drive in any French low-emission zone. Foreign-registered vehicles need one too.
Who drives it?
A professional driver with D1, supplied by a licensed partner along with the vehicle. Group members do not drive it.