The driver’s license you need to tow a trailer depends on the maximum allowable weight of the trailer and the car. This is the curb weight plus the maximum payload as listed on the vehicle registration certificate. The actual weight while driving is not a determining factor in choosing the driver’s license category.
What kind of driver's license do you need to tow a trailer?
First, check the maximum allowable weight of the trailer. Is it more than 750 kilograms? If so, add the maximum allowable weight of the car and the trailer together.
- If the trailer weighs 750 kilograms or less, a Class B driver’s license is sufficient. In this case, the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer may exceed 3,500 kilograms.
- If the trailer weighs more than 750 kilograms and the total combination weight is 3,500 kilograms or less, a Class B driver’s license is sufficient.
- If the combination weighs more than 3,500 kilograms but no more than 4,250 kilograms, you need a Class B license with code 96 (B+) or a Class BE license.
- If the combination weighs more than 4,250 kilograms, you generally need a BE driver’s license. The weight limits for category BE apply in this case.
How do you calculate the weight limit for a Class B driver's license?
The maximum authorized mass of the car and trailer is listed on the registration certificates. You can also look up the vehicle information using the RDW License Plate Check. Add both values together and compare the result with the table above.
Suppose the car has a maximum authorized mass of 2,100 kilograms and the trailer weighs 1,300 kilograms. The combined weight would then be 3,400 kilograms. If the caravan has a maximum authorized mass of 1,500 kilograms, the total weight would be 3,600 kilograms.
Taking less luggage with you doesn't change this calculation. After all, the maximum authorized mass listed on the registration certificate remains the same. However, carrying less cargo may be necessary to stay within the vehicle's payload capacity and technical limits.
Driver’s license and maximum towing weight: two separate checks
Your driver's license determines which vehicle combinations you are allowed to drive. The maximum towing capacity determines how much weight the car is technically allowed to tow. Both conditions must be met.
Depending on your driver’s license, you may be authorized to drive a vehicle combination, even if the car isn’t rated to tow the trailer. After all, a BE license doesn’t turn a compact family car into a powerhouse. So before you set off, be sure to check:
- the car’s maximum braked towing capacity;
- the maximum allowable trailer weight;
- the actual, loaded weight of the trailer;
- the load capacity of the car and the trailer;
- The ball pressure.
You can find these values in the vehicle specifications and the accompanying documentation. Also read how to check your car’s maximum towing capacity.
What is the maximum weight of a caravan you can tow with a BE driver's license?
Did you obtain your BE driver’s license on or after January 19, 2013? If so, the trailer may have a maximum authorized mass of up to 3,500 kilograms.
For a BE driver’s license obtained before January 19, 2013, more lenient licensing rules apply. In that case, there is no general weight limit for the trailer. However, the maximum towing weight and other technical limits of the vehicles remain decisive.
Getting a BE driver's license: how does it work?
If you want to get a BE driver’s license, you must already have a B driver’s license. You’ll take driving lessons at a driving school and then take a practical exam at the CBR. For category BE, you don’t need to take a separate theory exam. However, you must submit a medical certificate before the practical exam.
During driving lessons, you’ll practice, among other things, coupling the trailer, loading it safely, backing up, maneuvering, and driving in traffic. You’ll also learn to account for the extra length and the different handling characteristics of the combination. The CBR practical exam lasts a total of 55 minutes, with the driving test itself taking about 35 minutes.
The number of lessons you need varies from driver to driver. A driving school can usually give you a good estimate after a trial lesson. With a BE license, you have more options when choosing and buying a trailer, especially if you change your trailer combination regularly or want a heavier trailer later on.
Check your car, caravan, and driver’s license before departure
Before your vacation, gather the registration certificates for your car and caravan. Use the overview to determine which driver’s license you need, and then check the vehicle’s technical specifications and load capacity. If everything checks out, you can head to the campground with peace of mind.
Find out which caravan is right for you
Do you know what driver’s license you need? Then the fun part begins: finding a caravan that suits you, your car, and your travel plans. At Jaarbeurs Kampeer & Caravan Jaarbeurs, you can discover and compare caravans from different brands and get advice on topics such as weight, loading, and safe travel.
