You want to go on an adventure with a motorhome? No worries! To drive this type of vehicle, it is crucial to know the driving license necessary. In general, the license B is sufficient for motorhomes weighing up to 3.5 tonnes. But be careful, if your machine weighs more, permits like C1 or even the C may be appropriate. Let’s dissect together what you need to know to travel the roads legally!
TO REMEMBER:
|
Driving a motorhome requires a certain type of permit depending on its weight. For a motorhome of 3.5 tonnes or less, the license B is more than sufficient. If you are thinking of opting for a heavier motorhome, exceeding this weight, you will need the C1 license for vehicles up to 7.5 tonnes or license C for those who exceed this weight. Furthermore, there are mentions such as B96, allowing you to tow a trailer of more than 750 kg. In summary, make sure you know the weight of your motorhome before hitting the road!
For more advice on setting up a campervan, visit this link: Tips and tricks for converting a van into a camper van.

If you’re ready to hit the road in a motorhome, it is important to know the permit necessary to be able to drive this type of vehicle. Depending on the gross vehicle weight (GVWR) of the motorhome, requirements may vary. This article gives you an overview of the different categories of licenses required to drive a motorhome, so that you are well prepared for your next adventure on the roads!
B license for light motorhomes
For a motorhome whose PTAC is less than or equal to 3.5 tonnes, the license B is generally sufficient. This license allows you to drive light vehicles and is most commonly held by drivers in France. So, if you plan to rent or buy a light motorhome, a simple B license will open the doors to the road for you.
The case of trailers
If you wish to tow a trailer with your motorhome and the weight of the whole exceeds 3.5 tonnes, you will need additional information: the B96. This endorsement authorizes you to tow a trailer with a GVWR greater than 750 kg, but while ensuring that the total weight does not exceed 4.25 tonnes.
The C1 license for intermediate motorhomes
If your motorhome has a GVWR of between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes, you will need a C1 license. This license allows you to drive heavier vehicles, which is perfect for those looking for a motorhome with more space and comfort. It is important to note that this license requires additional training, as driving larger vehicles involves certain special skills.
The C license for heavy motorhomes
Finally, if your motorhome weighs more than 7.5 tonnes, you will need to obtain a license C. This type of license is intended for professionals and also requires extensive training, as it allows you to drive heavy goods vehicles. If you’re planning to invest in a full-size RV, it’s essential to prepare for the exam that comes with that permit.
Evolution of the B license with motorhomes over 3.5 tonnes
Recently, changes were announced regarding the B license, which could in the future allow motorhomes with a GVWR of up to 4.25 tonnes to be driven without the need to pass the C1 license. This development could simplify the lives of camping enthusiasts and facilitate access to slightly heavier vehicles without having to go through additional procedures.
Conclusion on choosing the right license
Having the right license is essential to fully enjoy your motorhome experience. Depending on the weight of your vehicle, make sure you have the appropriate license to avoid unpleasant surprises on the road. Inform yourself well before you leave, because a successful adventure begins with being on the right track.
For more information on the subject, find out if you can sleep in a motorhome while driving.
- Motorhome up to 3.5 tonnes: B license
- Motorhome between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes: C1 license
- Motorhome over 7.5 tonnes: C license
- Towing: Mention B96 for towing a trailer weighing more than 750 kg
- Rental in Europe: B license sufficient for a model below 3.5 tonnes
- Extension of license B: Accessible to certain motorhomes up to 4.25 tonnes
FAQ about the license needed to drive a motorhome
What license do you need to drive a motorhome? The permit B is sufficient for motorhomes with the authorized total weight (PTAC) is less than or equal to 3.5 tonnes.
Can I drive a motorhome weighing more than 3.5 tonnes with a B license? No, for a motorhome over 3.5 tonnes, you need a category license C1 Or C according to weight.
What is the B96 designation? The mention B96 allows you to tow a trailer weighing more than 750 kg as long as the whole does not exceed 4.25 tonnes.
Are light motorhomes covered by the B license? Yes, any motorhome with a PTAC of 3.5 tonnes or less can be driven with a license B.
Is the B license sufficient for all motorhomes? No, the license B is only sufficient for motorhomes of 3.5 tonnes or less. Beyond that, a permit C1 is required.
What license is needed for a 4.5 tonne motorhome? For a motorhome with a PTAC of 4.5 tonnes, you must hold a type license C1.
If I rent a motorhome weighing less than 3.5 tonnes, what license do I need? A category license B is sufficient to rent a motorhome under 3.5 tonnes, whether in France or in another European country.
Is the B license sufficient for a 5 tonne motorhome? No, for a motorhome of 5 tons, you need a category license C.
How to obtain the B79 permit? The permit B79 is an extension of the license B which allows you to drive a motorhome type vehicle of more than 3.5 tonnes and until 4.25 tonnes.
Are there any restrictions for sleeping in a motorhome while driving? Legislation varies, but generally it is not permitted to sleep in a motorhome while driving for safety reasons.
The question of the license needed to drive a motorhome is essential for all road trip enthusiasts. For the light vehicles, that is to say those whose total authorized weight (PTAC) is less than or equal to 3.5 tonnes, the license B is more than sufficient. This license allows you to hit the road with complete peace of mind, whether you want to go on an adventure with your family or friends.
However, it is important to know that if you plan to drive a motorhome heavier, that is to say with a GVW greater than 3.5 tonnes, you will need the type license C1. The latter is intended for vehicles whose GVWR is between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes. For those heading towards motorhomes even larger, a type license C will be required, because it makes it possible to drive heavy goods vehicles exceeding the 7.5 tonnes.
In addition, for drivers of motorhomes and trailers, it is good to note that the mention B96 may be necessary if the total weight of the trailer exceeds 750 kg. This mention allows you to combine a light vehicle with a trailer, ideal for those who wish to tow an additional vehicle or equipment.
In summary, before setting off on your adventure, check the weight of your motorhome and make sure you have the correct license. This will save you a lot of hassle and allow you to fully enjoy your experience on the road!
When to buy a plane ticket to benefit from the best prices
Ah, the plane tickets ! Who has never dreamed of traveling to distant horizons without breaking the bank? But did you know that there are tips for buy your tickets at the best price ? In this article, I reveal…
How much does a campsite owner earn in France?
You wonder how much a campsite owner in France can hope to win? Well, let me tell you, the numbers vary quite widely depending on many factors. Whether it is the type of campsite, its size, its location or the…
Why choose a tennis court builder in Nice for my project?
When considering building a tennis court, the choice of constructor proves crucial to the success of the project. Opt for one manufacturer specializing in tennis courts in Nice presents many advantages, both in terms of construction quality and adaptation to…
Marketing strategies to boost your business
In a constantly changing world, marketing strategies play a crucial role in ensuring the success and sustainability of businesses. Whether you are a start-up or an established business, adopting innovative tactics will allow you toattract new customers, of retain your…