Hiring a van, car, or HGV with us is simple – but there are a few important requirements you’ll need to meet and documents you’ll need to bring with you. Here’s everything you should know before you arrive at our Manchester or Leeds depots.
Driving Licence Requirements
- Age 21–24
- Must hold a full UK driving licence for at least 24 months.
- Endorsements and restrictions will be checked.
- Age 25 and 74
- Must hold a full UK driving licence for at least 12 months (longer for MPVs and minibuses).
- Endorsements and restrictions will be checked.
- Age 75 and over: we might be required to carry out additional checks for individuals above the age of 75.
- Specific vehicles:
- Kia Sportage, Toyota Yaris & Corolla Hybrid: Drivers must be 25+ and have held their licence for at least 24 months.
- 9 Seaters: Drivers must be 25+ and have held their licence for at least 24 months.
- Light vans & commercials (up to 3.5T): 21–24 yrs (24 months licence), 25+ (12 months licence).
- 7.5T GVW vehicles: Require Category C1 licence (automatically included if you passed before 1 Jan 1997, otherwise an additional test is required).
👉 You can check your licence categories at www.gov.uk/view-driving-licence.
Proof of Address
If you’ve used our quote and reservation system, you will be prompted to upload documents to make pickup faster, but you can produce the original documents when you pick up your vehicle , or you can send your documents to us via email, addressed to rentaldesk@salfordvanhire.net – ensure you tell us your reservation reference number or reservation details so that our team can help.
You’ll also need two recent forms of ID showing your current address (dated within the last 6–8 weeks). Examples include:
- Utility bills (gas, electricity, water, council tax)
- Bank or credit card statements
- Official letters
📌 Please note:
- Passports can’t be used as proof of address.
- Online utility bills are accepted if they show your name, address and date.
- If you’re moving house, please also bring proof of your new address.
DVLA Licence Check Code
Since the paper counterpart was abolished in June 2015, all driving records are held digitally.
- You’ll need to provide us with a DVLA check code so we can view your licence details.
- You can get this free at www.gov.uk/view-driving-licence.
- You’ll need your driving licence number, National Insurance number, and postcode.
- The code is valid for 21 days and can only be used once.
- If possible, upload or email us (a) screenshot(s) of your Driver Summary to speed up collection.
We’ve got a detailed walk-through for you here: How to Share Your Driving Licence Record (DVLA Check Code)
Payment Method & Deposit
- Hire charges and deposits must be paid on the hirer’s own credit or debit card.
- Some vehicles (e.g. Sportage and Hybrid cars) require the deposit to be made with a credit card and we aren’t able to accept debit cards.
- Deposits vary depending on the vehicle type, driver’s age, and driving record – see our Deposits & EDW page for details.
Non-UK Residents & Visitors
If you’re visiting the UK, you’ll need to bring:
- A valid driving licence (plus an International Driving Permit if applicable).
- Your passport.
- Two recent documents proving your home address abroad.
- Proof of where you’re staying in the UK (e.g. hotel booking or family member’s ID/address confirmation).
- Evidence of return travel (e.g. flight confirmation).
- Payment must be made by the hirer’s own credit card.
- Drivers holding a full licence from outside the EU or EEA may drive in the UK for up to 12 months from the date they become resident. After this period, a UK driving licence is required.
Summary
To hire a vehicle with Salford Van Hire, you’ll need:
- A valid driving licence (meeting the age & licence length rules).
- A DVLA check code or printed Driver Summary (UK licences).
- Two recent proofs of address.
- A valid credit or debit card for payment and deposit.
Bring these with you when you collect your vehicle to ensure a smooth and quick hire process.
