As we move into warmer, sunnier days, it is clear that spring has sprung, and we are on our way to summer. This is also when many people will begin planning their next holiday or trip.
A common trip in the UK is camping. While a lot of people enjoy roughing it out, there may be a few who have the luxury of owning a motorhome. But you may ask yourself if you can drive a motorhome on a car licence.
You need to be aware of the licence entitlements you have, in relation to what you will be operating. After all, if you drive a motorhome without the correct licence, you will be driving illegally, and this can incur a fine of as much as £1,000 and receive 3-6 penalty points on your licence.
This is why you must ensure you have the correct licence for the vehicle you will be driving, which is usually defined by the weight.
Find out what you need to know about motorhomes and what licence you need, including how to prepare for the tough manoeuvres you may have to execute in a larger vehicle.
What is a motorhome?
A motorhome is a recreational vehicle, used to commute and live in. Motorhomes come in different shapes and sizes, allowing individuals to live comfortably while travelling.
While some may have previous experience driving a motorhome, and others have no experience whatsoever, it is vital to understand the requirements for driving a motorhome, including what licence entitlement is necessary.
Can you drive a motorhome on a car licence?
Yes, you can drive a motorhome on a car licence. However, this depends on when you passed your car driving test and the Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) of your motorhome.
If the motorhome weighs no more than 3,500kg, you can drive this vehicle on your current category B (Car) entitlement. While some motorhomes weigh under the 3,500kg MAM, you may be planning to drive a motorhome weighing more than this.
Anyone operating a vehicle over 3,500Kg and up to 7,500Kg will require a Category C1 licence.
There are two ways you can get this entitlement
You complete the driver training and testing to acquire the C1 licence. This will include completing and passing the theory and practical driving tests.
However, if you passed your car test before 1st January 1997, you will automatically have the C1 entitlement, also known as acquired rights. This doesn’t allow you to operate a C1 vehicle for commercial purposes (also known as hire or reward.)
If you have acquired rights, but do not drive a 7.5 tonne vehicle at all, you can complete C1 driver training to build your confidence. You won’t need to complete any testing if you don’t need to operate for hire or reward in this case.
As a motorhome is larger than a car, it can be daunting to reverse or manoeuvre into tricky spaces. If you complete C1 training with 2 Start, you will be taught how to reverse the vehicle safely, as well as learn how to tackle situations you could face when operating a 7.5 tonne vehicle.
You can also use your vehicle to practice in. Previous 2 Start students have come to our training depots and used their own vehicles. From a motorhome to a horsebox carrier.
Getting the C1 licence
To achieve the C1 entitlement, you must:
- Be over 18 years old
- Hold a full UK Driving Licence (Category B)
- Pass a medical assessment to be considered fit to drive a vehicle over 3.5 tonne
- Pass the theory and practical tests
Motorhomes weighing over 7.5 tonne
While most motorhomes will be within the 7.5 tonne threshold, some motorhomes that will weigh over 7.5 tonne MAM. In this case, you must obtain your Category C licence. As long as you are not driving for a living (making a profit) you will only need to complete the hazard perception & multiple-choice theory test, as well as the 3a reversing and 3b on road driving test.
If you will be driving professionally, you must complete the Initial Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) training and testing.
Are you motorhome ready?
Do you need to obtain your C1 licence? Or do you have the entitlement, but require some familiarisation training? Call our team Monday-Friday on 02392 123 555. You can also submit your interest and complete our quick enquiry form.
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