How to Get a Category D1 Driving Licence in Kosovo?

Unlike Kosovo’s approach to mopeds, which has no standalone AM category, D1 is a distinct category in Kosovo’s driving license system, with clear technical specifications for minibuses. This piece covers what D1 authorizes, how it differs from full Category D, and current requirements.

What Category D1 covers

D1 authorizes minibus vehicles that, in addition to the driver’s seat, have more than 8 but no more than 16 seats.

Minimum age

D1 generally requires a minimum age of 21, consistent with the regional pattern applied to entry-level bus categories across the Balkans.

You need Category B first.

D1 requires you to already hold a valid Category B license, following the standard progression pattern used across the region.

D1E: adding a heavier trailer

D1E authorizes minibuses combined with a trailer exceeding 750 kg, provided the trailer’s maximum authorized mass doesn’t exceed the towing vehicle’s unladen mass, and the combination’s total maximum authorized mass doesn’t exceed 12,000 kg. The trailer itself must not be used for passenger transport.

How D1 differs from full Category D

Full Category D authorizes buses with more than 8 seats in addition to the driver’s seat, with no upper limit, and automatically includes a trailer not exceeding 750 kg. D1 specifically caps you at 16 seats, making it the appropriate choice for smaller passenger transport needs.

DE: the full-bus combination category

DE authorizes buses with more than 8 seats in addition to the driver’s, combined with a trailer exceeding 750 kg; the combination-vehicle equivalent of full Category D.

Documents and eligibility

• A valid identity document
• Proof of holding Category B
• A medical fitness certificate confirming your ability to drive passenger vehicles

The theory and practical exams

You’ll need to pass both a theory exam covering traffic rules and passenger vehicle-specific content, and a practical exam demonstrating genuine control and safe handling of a D1-appropriate minibus.

Automatic transmission

As with other EU-aligned systems in the region, testing on an automatic-transmission vehicle typically restricts the resulting license to automatic vehicles only.

Where D1 sits in Kosovo’s licensing system

Kosovo’s driving license categories include A1, A, B, C1, C, D1, D, and their trailer-equipped combinations (B+E, C1+E, C+E, D1+E, D+E), as well as T, L, and M categories for specialized vehicles. D1 sits between Category B (cars) and full Category D (larger buses).

What full Category A requires, for context

For context on Kosovo’s broader system: Category A caps at 25 hp and has a power-to-weight limit of 0.16 hp/kg, unless the rider has two years’ experience at that tier or is 21 or older for direct entry.

Validity

Kosovo D1 driving licenses follow standard administrative validity periods, subject to any applicable renewal requirements.

Foreign residents and license exchange

Foreign license holders can generally apply to exchange their license for a Kosovo equivalent, subject to standard identity and residency documentation requirements.

Tips that actually help

• Confirm you hold a valid Category B license before applying for D1.
• Understand the distinction between D1 (up to 16 seats) and full Category D (no upper limit) before choosing your training path.
• Gather your medical fitness certificate early, since it’s a standard prerequisite.
• Ask your driving school about current documentation requirements before enrolling.

Where this fits going forward

D1 in Kosovo offers a genuine, clearly defined route into passenger transport, distinct from the bundled approach used for lower categories. If you plan to pursue professional driving down the line, review the driver section, browse current vacancies, see which employers are hiring on FastDriver.eu, and explore our broader job guides. Our driving license in Kosovo and license eligibility pages cover the broader picture.

Declaration

This article is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Fees, training requirements, and administrative rules can change and may vary by case in Kosovo. Always confirm the current requirements with the relevant official sources in Kosovo before making decisions. FastDriver.eu accepts no liability for decisions made based on this information.