When do you need a trailer driving licence?

The short answer: you have a trailer licence (BE or B+) needed as soon as the combination of your car and trailer more than 3,500 kg (maximum authorised mass) weighs.
At Xpress driver training we clearly explain which driving licence is right for your situation, so you can drive safely and according to the law.

When can you drive with only driving licence B?

With an ordinary car licence (B) you may already pull quite a bit:

• a light trailer up to 750 kg;
• or a heavier trailer, as long as the total combination (car + trailer) not above the 3,500 kg coming.

Example: if your car is allowed to weigh 2,000 kg and the trailer 1,200 kg, you will still be fine with driving licence B.

What is the difference between driving licence B+ and BE?

Two extensions are possible:

• Driving licence B+ (code 96): for combinations up to 4,250 kg. You do not have to take a full BE exam, just a practical test.
• Driving licence BE: for combinations above 4,250 kg. This is the ‘real’ trailer driving licence, with a full CBR exam.

In short: B+ is a small extension, BE gives you complete freedom.
👉 View our trailer licence page for more information.

How do you know which driving licence you need?

Count the permissible maximum mass (TMM) of your car and trailer add up.
You can find that on the registration certificate.
If the sum:

• ≤ 3,500 kg → driving licence B
• ≤ 4,250 kg → driving licence B+ (code 96)
• > 4,250 kg → driving licence BE

If in doubt, you can have this checked by your instructor at Xpress driver training - he will calculate it for you.

What can you tow with a BE driving licence?

With a BE driving licence you may:

• a car with trailer or caravan towing without weight restriction within the vehicle category;
• horse trailers, large caravans, or work trailers use;
• also drive abroad without additional requirements.

The exam and lessons specifically prepare you to drive heavy or long combinations.

What does the practical exam look like?

The practical exam lasts about 75 minutes.
You show that you:

• can safely connect and disconnect;
• correctly reverse with the trailer;
• and traffic situations well with a long combination.

The examiner assesses driving skills, vision and control of the vehicle.

When is a trailer driving licence useful or mandatory?

A BE driving licence is mandatory for:

• large caravans or horse trailers;
• construction or relocation trailers;
• heavy-duty bone trailers;
• and often at commercial transport.

Even if it is not compulsory, it can be useful: you drive with more security and control.

Frequently asked questions

1. How old do I need to be for the BE driving licence?
You must at least 18 years be and possess a valid car licence (B).

2. How many lessons do I need on average?
On average 4 to 6 lessons sufficient, depending on experience of driving and manoeuvring.

3. How long is the BE driving licence valid?
It is valid for 10 years and is automatically renewed along with your car licence.

At Xpress driver training Learn to drive responsibly with a trailer - from caravan to horse trailer.
Want to know if you need an additional driving licence? Schedule a trial lesson or get in touch; we'll be happy to help.