Driving a motorhome with a B driving license

A motorhome driving with driving license B is possible in many cases. Still, it is sometimes difficult to determine whether you need a B, C(1) or D(1) driving license. This depends on the maximum weight of the motorhome and the maximum number of people you can transport. That is why we are happy to explain when you can drive a motorhome and with which driver's license. Keep in mind that motorhomes are a bit larger and heavier than a passenger car. You may also need a different driver's license. Read on to find out soon!

Can you drive a motorhome with a B driving license?

Yes. Driving a motorhome with driving license B is allowed if it has a maximum weight of 3.500 kg. And if the camper is suitable for transporting a maximum of 8 people. If the camper is heavier, then (unfortunately) a B driving license is not enough. It is then necessary to get a truck driving license (C or C1). With the weight of a compact motorhome occasion refers to the permitted maximum mass. And that consists of the empty weight plus the maximum payload.

Concepts for driving a motorhome

To further discuss driving a motorhome with a B driving license, it is useful to have all the concepts clear. There are several – not everyday – terms that will come up. Ultimately, this is the basis for determining whether you can drive a motorhome with a B driving license. Or with a different driving license.

Maximum draw weight

This term is literally what it means: the weight that a car is allowed to tow. This is indicated on the registration certificate, where you have to look at the braked weight. This is also the weight that you can tow with a trailer with brakes. Do you have a license plate card? Then it is indicated as technical maximum mass AHW (braked).

Mass roadworthy

This is about the mass of the vehicle in running order and unladen state. So: including coolant, lubricants, fuel (90% filled), spare wheel and any tools. The driver (of 75 kg) is also included in this. This term is also indicated on the registration certificate.

Mass empty weight

This is the weight of the vehicle without passenger and load. The amount of the road tax is also determined based on the weight. The standard that is adhered to by the government is the mass curb weight minus 100 kg.

Maximum payload

This is the maximum weight of items (and people) that can be taken in a motorhome. Calculated by subtracting the mass in roadworthy condition from the maximum permitted mass.

Permissible maximum mass

This is the maximum permitted weight of a loaded trailer or caravan.

What kind of driving licenses are there?

Now that all concepts are clear, it is easy to consider whether driving a motorhome with driving license B is allowed during a camper trip Europe† If the permitted mass is higher than 3.500 kg and the camper does not transport more than 8 people, a large driver's license (C or C1) is required. Since 2013, it has been possible to take driving lessons and take an exam for a C1 driving license. If more than 8 people are transported, it is necessary to go for driving license D (bus). Fortunately, this rarely occurs in practice with motorhomes. Below is a clear table in which you can read which driver's license you must have.

Rent a motorhome with driving license B

At Camperhuren.nl you must have at least a B driving license to rent (and of course drive) a motorhome. Often this is also immediately sufficient. However, the driver must also be at least 25 years old and have a valid Dutch driving license B for at least 5 years. Non-Dutch driver must be in possession of a valid international driver's license. This can easily be requested in the country of origin. It is important that rented motorhome may only be driven by the pre-specified driver. This driver must also follow our instructions to drive carefully and safely camper holiday to go. For example, we recommend a speed of 100 to 110 km/h.