Both UNISON and Unite Environmental Officers recently held a productive meeting with NHS England. During the meeting it was confirmed that the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) has, by email, confirmed that battery electric ambulances (BEVs) are included within the scope of the updated driving license derogation, introduced to facilitate the transition to alternatively fueled vehicles across the UK including emergency and patient transport services. This is great news for a significant number of staff across YAS who would have needed to gain a C1 category licence without this derogation.  

Scope of the Derogation

Under this derogation, alternatively fueled vehicles—including BEVs—may be driven with a standard Category B driving licence, provided they do not exceed 4.25 tonnes in Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). This represents an increase over the previous 3.5 tonne limit, reflecting the additional weight of zero-emission drivetrain technology and batteries.

Permitted Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)

The derogation recognises the increased unladen weight associated with alternatively fueled vehicles and specialist medical adaptations. Where additional mass—up to 0.75 tonnes—is attributable to specialist equipment for transporting disabled passengers, the permitted GVW rises further:

• Standard alternative fuel vehicle limit: 4.25 tonnes
• With up to 0.75 tonnes of specialist equipment for disabled passengers: Up to 5 tonnes GVW

This ensures that vehicles designed for accessibility and specialised transport can operate without requiring drivers to obtain higher categories of licence.

Inclusion of Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service (NEPTS) Vehicles

The change to the legislation means NEPTS vehicles are automatically included within the scope of this derogation. This allows drivers of such vehicles, when powered by alternative fuels and within the permitted weight limits, are not required to hold a licence above Category B.

Effective Date of Updated Regulations

These updated driving licence regulations came into effect on 10th June 2025. This update represents a significant step toward supporting the wider introduction and trialing of zero-emission vehicles in NEPTS, A & E, Support Services and the Fleet Department, reducing operational barriers for staff across YAS.

All drivers of YAS BEVs should be given appropriate opportunity for familarisation in the use, charging and driving characteristics of these vehicles.  

Email yas.unison@nhs.net with any queries or concerns.