Question 1

Can I drive a van on a standard car licence?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a category B licence covers vehicles up to 3,500 kg gross weight with no more than nine seats including the driver. That takes in nearly every passenger van and most panel vans. Heavier vans need a C1 licence.

Question 2

What is the difference between a passenger and a goods van?

Accepted Answer

A passenger van is registered to carry people, while a goods van is registered as a light commercial with a load area. The classification changes the ISV an imported van pays and how often it has to pass the IPO inspection, so check that the registration papers match the van in front of you.

Question 3

Why do vans pay more on Portuguese motorways?

Accepted Answer

Tolls are charged by vehicle class, and a two-axle vehicle measuring 1.10 metres or more in height at the front axle falls into class 2. Many vans exceed that, so check which class a given van pays if you will use the motorways often.

Question 4

What should I check on a van that has been used for work?

Accepted Answer

The load floor, the sliding-door runners and the rear door hinges show how hard a van has worked. A clutch that bites very high suggests a life of stop-start deliveries. Ask, too, whether it has been used for towing.

Used vans

BMW Série 1 116 i Line Sport de 2013

Mercedes-Benz A 250 e 8G-DCT Edition AMG Line

Opel Astra 1.2 T GS Line Aut.

Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TSi GTi DSG

BMW 118 sport

Hyundai i20 1.0 T-GDI Style (TT) DCT

Audi A3 Allstreet 40 TFSIe SE Business Plus

Renault Clio 1.2

Honda Civic 1.5 LSi 16 V

Nissan Almera 2.2 Di Elegance