Driving a campervan is often possible with a B driving license. This is ideal, as you don't need to get a truck license first. There are, however, a few rules regarding weight and visibility. On this page, we explain these clearly and help you choose the right campervan. This way, you'll know exactly what to expect.
Rent motorhomes
When are you allowed to drive a camper with a B driving license?
With a B driving license you are allowed to drive a camper as long as it:
- weighs no more than 3.500 kg (maximum permitted mass), and
- suitable for up to 8 people.
Is the camper heavier? Then you need a C or C1 driving license. With the weight of a compact motorhome occasion we mean the maximum permitted mass: the unladen weight plus the maximum payload.
Want to go out on your own? Book your camper with a B driving license today. This way you are assured of availability.
Important terms for driving a camper
Renting a campervan also means encountering some technical terms. Here are the most important ones:
- Maximum towing weight: how many kilos the camper (with brakes) can tow
The maximum towing weight is listed on the vehicle registration certificate, under braked weight. This is also the weight you are permitted to tow with a trailer with brakes. If you have a vehicle registration card, it is indicated as the technical maximum weight (AHW) (braked).
- Curb weight: weight including fluids, fuel, driver and tools
The mass of the vehicle in its unladen, ready-to-drive state. This includes coolant, lubricants, fuel (90% full), spare tire, and any tools. The driver (weighing 75 kg) is also included. This term is also stated on the vehicle registration certificate. - Curb weight: weight without passengers and cargo
Road tax is calculated based on this, among other things. The standard used by the government is the curb weight minus 100 kg. - Maximum payload: the weight of additional items and people
The maximum weight of items (and people) that you are allowed to take with you. - Permitted maximum weight: the total weight of the fully loaded camper
In other words, the maximum permitted weight of a loaded trailer or caravan.
What types of driving licenses are there?
With these concepts in mind, it is easy to determine whether driving a camper with a B driving license is permitted during a camper trip Europe.
|
max. weight motorhome |
max. number of seats (not including yourself) |
Drivers license |
|
Up to 3.500 kilos |
8 |
Driving License B |
|
Between 3.500 and 7.500 kilos |
8 |
C1 driving license |
|
More than 7.500 kilos |
8 |
Driver's license C |
|
na |
9 to 16 |
Driving license D1 |
|
na |
More than 16 |
Driver's license D |
Good to know: Since 2013, you can take a separate exam for C1. A D driving license (bus) is almost never required for campervans.
Conditions for renting a camper with a B driving license
In our case:
- Minimum driving license B (valid in the Netherlands).
- Minimum age 25 years and 5 years driving experience.
- Foreign drivers require an International Driving Permit.
- Only the specified driver is allowed to drive.
This way it remains clear and safe. We advise you to proceed carefully and safely. camper holiday to go and drive around 100 to 110 km/h.
Tips for comfortable driving with a camper
A campervan drives differently than a regular car. These tips will help you hit the road in a relaxed manner:
- Keep more distance than you are used to with a normal car.
-
Avoid narrow village streets and opt for wide, main roads instead.
- Refuel on time – a camper uses a bit more fuel than you think.
