What Licence Do You Need to Drive a Motorhome?

Financing a motorhome has become a popular option for people across the UK who want to get out and explore all the sites our country has to offer. However, before going ahead with financing a motorhome, there are a few factors to consider, and you may be wondering, ‘Can I drive a motorhome with a car licence?’

In this blog, we’ll cover all the aspects that influence the type of licence you’ll need to drive a motorhome including the size and weight of the vehicle alongside driving qualifications.

If you’re looking to get on the road in your own motorhome, we have the best motorhome finance rates that let you cruise the open roads at a price that suits you.

Can I drive a motorhome with a car licence?

The simple answer is yes, if you have a standard car licence or Category B licence you can drive a motorhome, but there are some conditions to this rule. The rules can be a little complicated and the size of your motorhome, your age and driving test date are all factors that influence the type of motorhome you can drive.

Motorhome Types

Motorhomes range in size from smaller camper-style vehicles to larger, more heavy-framed models. The MAM or Maximum Authorised Mass is the weight of the vehicle when fully loaded and determines the type of licence needed to drive a particular motorhome.

Motorhomes usually come in 3 classes:

Class A Motorhomes 

These are the largest, most spacious and luxurious style of motorhomes often resembling the typical tour buses you’ll see around the country. These motorhomes are the heaviest and usually require a special Category C1 licence depending on their weight.  

Class B Motorhome

This class of motorhome is often known as a camper van and is similar in size and feel to a small van. These vehicles are usually easier to drive and often weigh under 3,500kg meaning that they can be driven with a standard driving licence. 

Class C Motorhome

These vehicles are also commonly known as RVs and are usually built on a truck chassis. These motorhomes can vary in weight and size so the licence you need may depend on the model and make of the class C vehicle you choose.

In order to determine which licence is right for you, you’ll first need to choose the type of motorhome you plan to drive. For a more in-depth exploration, check out our guide for understanding motorhome classes. 

Motorhomes under 3,500kg

What year you use your driving test determines what type of vehicle you can drive with a Category B licence. If you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997 you’re able to drive a motorhome or larger vehicle that weights up to 3,500kg. You can also drive a vehicle within this weight limit that has 8 passenger seats. 

The majority of motorhomes in the UK are built to weigh under 3500 kg to allow a wide range of drivers to purchase and legally drive motorhomes on a standard car licence. 

Motorhomes over 3,500kg 

The rules for motorhomes over 3,500kg are where things get a bit more complicated. If you passed your test after January 1 1997, you’ll need a Category C1 licence in order to drive any motorhome between 3,500kg and 7,500kg.

However, if you passed your test before January 1 1997 you’ll be able to drive a motorhome with your standard Category B driving licence.  You can also drive a vehicle and trailer combination of up to 8,250kg. This means you won’t have to apply for an additional licence if you want to drive a motorhome under 7.500kg.

It’s important to note that if you did pass your driving test before January 1997, once you reach 70 you have to renew your licence. The entitlement to drive a motorhome over 3,500kg is then removed and if you want to continue driving this type of vehicle you will have to apply for a Category C1 licence and complete the test. 

Motorhomes Over 7,500kg

On the rare occasion that your motorhome exceeds 7,500kg, you’ll have to apply for a Category C licence. This is the licence heavy-duty vehicle drivers need and allows you to operate rigid-body vehicles.

The process of applying for a Category C licence is stricter than a standard car licence and requires you to pass a medical exam alongside a specialist theory and practical test. 

Licence requirements for financing a motorhome

Financing a motorhome in the UK is fairly straightforward, especially with us here at Auto Finance, but there are a few rules for approval. 

Every company’s conditions vary but the person applying for the loan usually has to have a valid Category B driving licence. The majority of companies will opt for motorhomes under 3,500kg to make it easier for applicants to acquire a motorhome with a standard car licence. 

Drive away with the Perfect Motorhome with Auto Finance

So, can I drive a motorhome with a car licence? The answer is yes and whatever licence you have, here at Auto Finance we’re dedicated to helping you drive away with the right vehicle for you. Our application process is simple to follow and we’re proud to offer the best loan rates for our customers.

To find out how much you could get towards your loan, use our finance calculator for motorhomes and you’ll get an idea of how much you’ll be expected to repay.

Get in touch with our experts to find out more about our finance options and let us help you get on the road with your perfect motorhome.