“What driving licence do I need to drive a motorhome?” The answer isn’t always straightforward, because it depends on the weight of the vehicle, the year your licence was issued, and what entitlement categories you already hold. This guide explains exactly what you need to know in the UK.
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Key factors that determine licence requirement
Before jumping into licence categories, here are the main variables that affect what you need:
- Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM): The weight limit of the motorhome (fully loaded).
- Licence issue date: Whether your driving test was before or after 1 January 1997.
- Existing licence categories: What entitlements you already have (e.g. B, C1).
- Trailer usage: If you plan to tow a trailer, that may add extra requirements.
- Where you drive/hire: Some hire motorhomes are built under 3,500 kg to fall within standard car licences.
With that in place, here are the typical licence scenarios.
Standard car licence (Category B): Up to 3,500 kg
For most motorhomes, a standard car licence (Category B) is sufficient.
- If your motorhome has a MAM ≤ 3,500 kg, you can drive it using your regular full car licence (provided you passed your test after 1997).
- You can also tow a trailer up to 750 kg with that motorhome.
- Many hire companies deliberately choose motorhomes under this weight so that standard licence holders can drive them.
Important nuance: If you passed your driving test before 1 January 1997, your licence may already include additional entitlements (like C1) by default.
Category C1: For motorhomes between 3,500 kg and 7,500 kg
Once a motorhome exceeds 3,500 kg MAM, you generally need a Category C1 licence.
- Category C1 allows you to drive vehicles over 3,500 kg but not more than 7,500 kg (with a trailer of up to 750 kg).
- If your motorhome sits in that weight bracket, C1 is required.
- To get C1, you’ll typically need to pass a medical assessment and a practical driving test.
- Licence holders who passed their test before 1997 may already hold C1 entitlement.
Heavier motorhomes: Over 7,500 kg
For very large motorhomes (MAM over 7,500 kg), you move into Category C, which is the standard large vehicle licence.
- This is less common for motorhomes, since most are built under 7,500 kg.
- If towing a heavy trailer combination, additional categories like C1E or CE may apply.
How to obtain or upgrade to C1 (if needed)
If you find your motorhome requires C1, here’s the usual route:
- Check eligibility
- You must already hold a full Category B licence.
- You must meet medical and vision standards (complete DVLA D4 form).
- Apply for provisional C1 entitlement
- Use the D2 form (you can get it from DVLA or a Post Office).
- Submit the medical form D4.
- Take the test
- Once your provisional entitlement is in place, take the C1 practical driving test.
- Receive the new entitlement
- After passing, your licence will be updated with the C1 category.
Note: You do not have to pass any lower-category test first when upgrading to C1. GOV.UK
Special considerations & exceptions
- Trailer combinations: If your motorhome tows a trailer over 750 kg, you may need C1E.
- Down-plating: Some owners reduce the maximum plated weight (MAM) of their motorhome so they stay within the 3,500 kg limit to avoid needing C1. But this must be legally done and verified.
- Insurance & MOT: Always inform your insurer of your motorhome’s actual weight class and modifications. Your motorhome must also meet roadworthiness and MOT requirements for its new category.
- UK licence categories changes: The law changed in 1997, which affects entitlements on newer licences. Many drivers who passed after 1997 will not have C1 by default.
- DVLA reclassification: Converting a van to a motorhome may require body type changes in DVLA records. The vehicle must show external features of a motor caravan. GOV.UK
Quick licence decision table
| Motorhome MAM / Setup | Licence Required | Extra Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 3,500 kg (no heavy trailer) | Category B (standard car licence) | None (unless towing a trailer above 750 kg) |
| 3,501 kg – 7,500 kg (motorhome) | Category C1 | Medical exam, provisional C1, practical test |
| Over 7,500 kg | Category C | Requires full large vehicle licence |
| Motorhome + trailer over 750 kg | C1E / CE (depending on size) | Extra trailer test and combined weight rules |
So, what driving licence do I need to drive a motorhome? It depends largely on the weight of the vehicle:
- If it’s under 3,500 kg MAM, your standard car licence is enough.
- If it exceeds 3,500 kg, you’ll likely need a C1 licence (or higher, in rare cases).
- Always check the MAM on the vehicle and your licence entitlements to stay legal and safe.
