Do you need a Section 19 Permit for an 8-seater minibus

The DVSA will not issue a Section 19 Permit to vehicles with less than 9 passenger seats. However, the guidance does state

‘Since April 2009, services can be provided under a section 19 permit using a vehicle constructed or adapted to carry no more than 8 passengers. Where such vehicles are used under a permit, the passengers must be charged separate fares’ (Link to source)

The Community Transport Association will issue Section 19 Permits for 7-passenger seat vehicles.