Class 4 or class 5

I have been presented with both mini buses & stretch limo's that are class 5 & the owners claim are class 4 due to the removal of seats to below the 12 seat limit . In the case of the minibus , the fact the seats fitted into tracks & could easily be refitted , class 5 still , no grey area . The limo had removed the two rear across body bench seats , leaving seat belt stalks & mounting brackets visible . Again , no grey area class 5 . I also begin to log the vehicle in & stop once the BIG RED BANNER informs me we are NOT approved for class 5 testing . Personally let them find a station that is prepared to change class . let them get the visit from the powers that be & their penalty point system

Also DO NOT forget to check GVW as minibuses regularly exceed 3,500kg