Lightweight minibuses, sometimes called minibus lights, are minibuses weighing under 3.5 tonnes that can be driven on a standard car licence. Currently, there is not a 17 seat minibus on the market with a GVW of 3500kg or under. Before you commit to a minibus you intend to drive without D1 entitlement check that the GVW is 3500kg or under – NOT including any specialist equipment.