Is a category B licence enough? Weights, categories and what you can drive
Beginners7 min read

Is a category B licence enough? Weights, categories and what you can drive

Do I need category C or B96 for a motorhome? A complete overview of weights, driving licence categories and what applies to the Burstner T 726 G.


Category B driving licence — what can you drive?


One of the most common questions from new motorhome rental enquirers is: *"Do I need a special driving licence?"* For our vehicles, the answer is simple — **no**. But let's explain this properly so you know what applies in each case.


What is category B and where is the limit?


Category B is the standard driving licence that most adults hold. It authorises driving vehicles with a maximum authorised mass of up to **3,500 kg** and a maximum of 8 passengers excluding the driver.


The minimum age for category B is 18 — but for motorhome rentals, most companies including GetFar require a **minimum age of 21 and 2 years of driving experience**. This is an insurance requirement, not a legislative one.


Driving licence categories for heavier vehicles


| Category | What it authorises | When needed |

|----------|-------------------|-------------|

| B | Up to 3,500 kg | Standard motorhomes and caravans up to 3.5 t |

| B96 | Combination of category B vehicle + trailer, total up to 7,000 kg | Towing heavier caravans |

| C1 | Vehicles 3,500 – 7,500 kg | Heavier motorhomes over 3.5 t |

| C | Vehicles over 7,500 kg | Lorries, large motorhomes |


Our Bürstner T 726 G — category B is enough


The Bürstner T 726 G we rent has a maximum authorised mass of **up to 3,500 kg**. This means a standard category B licence is all you need to drive it.


You do not need:

  • any B96 extension
  • category C1
  • any additional training

  • A valid category B driving licence, minimum age 21 and at least 2 years of driving experience is all that is required.


    When would category B not be enough?


    Category B is insufficient in these situations:


    **Caravan as a trailer (not a motorhome):** If you were towing a caravan trailer and the total combination weight exceeded 3,500 kg, you would need B96 or E. However, this does not apply to motorhomes — they are standalone vehicles.


    **Heavier motorhomes:** Some larger models (alcove, fully integrated) weigh over 3,500 kg. For those, C1 is required.


    **Commercial vehicle use:** Some special permits may involve different rules.


    Practical tips for first-time motorhome drivers


    Even though category B is legally sufficient, a motorhome has its own characteristics:


    **Vehicle width:** The Bürstner T 726 G is wider than a standard car — approximately 2.3 m. Be careful when parking and driving on narrow roads.


    **Clearance height:** The vehicle is approximately 2.9 m tall. Always check permitted heights for tunnel portals, car parks and underpasses.


    **Braking distance:** A heavier vehicle takes longer to stop. Keep a greater following distance.


    **Parking:** Use designated motorhome spaces (marked with the motorhome symbol). In standard car parks you will occupy 2 spaces — that is perfectly acceptable.


    **Speed:** On motorways we recommend 90–100 km/h. It is both safer and more economical.


    ---


    FAQ — Common questions about driving licences


    Can I drive a motorhome immediately after getting category B?

    Yes, legally yes. But most rental companies including GetFar require a minimum age of 21 and 2 years of experience.


    Do I need any training before my first drive?

    It is not mandatory, but we recommend it. GetFar provides a detailed handover briefing when you collect the vehicle.


    Do different rules apply abroad?

    Within the EU the same category B rules apply. Some countries outside the EU may have differences — we recommend checking before your trip.


    What if I have only had my category B licence for a few months?

    If you do not have 2 years of experience, rental is not possible. This is an insurance requirement.


    ---


    Summary


    A standard category B driving licence is all you need to drive our Bürstner T 726 G. No extra categories, no special training. The important things are meeting the age requirement (21 years) and having at least 2 years of driving experience.


    Have questions? [Contact us](/en/kontakt) or go ahead and [book your motorhome](/en/rezervacia) and experience the freedom of the open road for yourself.


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