Self-Drive Minibus Hire in Scotland
Need a minibus but want to drive it yourself? Self-drive minibus hire is a cost-effective option for groups who have a confident driver with a standard UK driving licence. We list self-drive minibus operators across Scotland including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Dundee, Inverness and beyond.
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What Licence Do You Need?
You can drive a minibus on a standard Category B car licence if the vehicle has no more than 8 passenger seats (plus the driver) and a Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) of no more than 3,500kg. For larger minibuses with 9-16 passenger seats, you may need a D1 licence category. If you passed your driving test before 1 January 1997, you should already have the D1 category on your licence. Drivers who passed after this date will need to check their licence or consider a smaller vehicle. Always confirm licence requirements with the hire company before booking.
How Much Does Self-Drive Minibus Hire Cost?
Self-drive minibus hire in Scotland is significantly cheaper than hiring with a driver. A 9-seater minibus typically costs £90-£160 per day, while larger 12-15 seater vehicles range from £130-£220 per day. Weekend rates and weekly hire often offer better value, and longer hires for Highland touring trips are popular. Most operators require a security deposit (usually £250-£500) and you will need to arrange your own insurance or pay for the operator's cover. Fuel is not usually included, so factor in the cost for longer Scottish journeys on routes like the A9 to Inverness or the M8 between Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Popular Self-Drive Minibus Sizes
The most popular self-drive minibuses in Scotland are 9-seater minibuses which are the largest you can drive on a standard car licence and are ideal for family trips, airport runs, and Highland touring holidays. 12-seater minibuses are popular for sports teams and medium groups but require a D1 licence. 15-17 seater minibuses are the largest self-drive option and are perfect for larger groups, events and longer trips across Scotland. They require a D1 licence category.
What to Check Before Hiring
Before booking a self-drive minibus, confirm you have the correct driving licence category, check the insurance cover and excess amount, ask about mileage limits as some operators include unlimited mileage while others charge per mile after a set allowance, check the fuel policy (most are full-to-full), inspect the vehicle for any existing damage before driving away, and confirm pick-up and return times to avoid late fees. If you plan to drive in the Highlands, check whether the vehicle is suitable for single-track roads.
Self-Drive vs Driven Minibus Hire
Self-drive hire is typically 40-60% cheaper than hiring a minibus with a professional driver. It gives you complete flexibility over your schedule and route, which is ideal for touring Scotland at your own pace. However, driven hire means everyone in the group can relax and enjoy the scenery on routes like the A82 through Glencoe or the NC500, the driver knows the local roads including tricky Highland passes, and there is no need to worry about parking a large vehicle in busy city centres like Edinburgh or Glasgow. For nights out and events involving alcohol, hiring with a driver is the obvious choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a 16-seater minibus on a normal licence?▼
No. A standard Category B car licence only covers vehicles with up to 8 passenger seats. For a 16-seater, you need a D1 licence. If you passed your test before January 1997, check your licence as you may already have this category.
What age do you need to be to hire a self-drive minibus?▼
Most operators require the driver to be at least 25 years old and to have held a full UK driving licence for at least 2 years. Some may accept drivers aged 21-24 with a surcharge.
Is insurance included in self-drive hire?▼
Basic insurance is usually included but with a high excess (£500-£1,000). Many operators offer additional cover to reduce the excess. You can also arrange your own hire vehicle insurance separately.
Where can I pick up a self-drive minibus in Scotland?▼
Self-drive minibus operators are based across Scotland including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Dundee, Inverness, Stirling, Perth and Falkirk. Some offer delivery and collection of the vehicle to your address or to airports including Glasgow and Edinburgh Airport.
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