What License Do I Need to Drive a Motorhome in the UK?

Driving a motorhome in the UK requires a specific license, which varies depending on the vehicle's size and weight. While many drivers may legally drive smaller motorhomes with a basic Category B automobile license, larger models may require additional credentials, such as a Category C1 or even a Category C license.

The restrictions also change based on when you got your driving test and your age, especially when you turn 70. This guide covers all you need to know, from license classifications and medical criteria to application procedures, so that you can remain legal and safe on the road.

Which Motorhomes Can I Drive On a Normal Car License? 

If you have a full Category B driver's license, you may drive any motorhome or campervan weighing up to 3500kg (3.5 tons) gross vehicle weight (GVW).

You may be in luck, as drivers who completed their test before January 1, 1997, may also hold a C1 category on their license, allowing them to drive any motorhome weighing up to 7.5 tons (7500 kg). This is usually referred to as 'grandfather rights,' however, eligibility is not dependent on being a grandparent. You can verify this by glancing at the back of your driver's license; if it resembles the one below, there is no need to take any further examinations.

Can I Drive a Motorhome On a Car License? 

A basic automobile license allows anybody to drive a motorhome.

However, the sort of motorhome you may drive with a conventional automobile license depends on a few factors:

The date you passed the exam.

Weight of your motorhome.

Your age.

We'll go over each of these three elements and tell you which motorhomes you may drive with a conventional automobile license.

When Did You Pass Your Test?

Have you passed your exam since January 1, 1997? If so, you may drive a motorhome weighing up to 3,500 kg. The basic driving license provided to a motorist who passes their test in 2023 includes categories B, B1, and BE, which allow you to drive a motorhome weighing up to 3,500kg.

Most new motorhomes nowadays have a Maximum Allowable Mass (MAM) of 3,500kg to ensure that any driver can operate them.

Have you passed it before? If you passed your test before January 1, 1997, you may drive a motorhome weighing up to 7,500 kg. All driving licenses issued before January 1, 1997, automatically have a C1 entitlement, allowing you to drive motorhomes weighing up to 7,500kg.

How Much Does Your Motorhome Weigh?

Anyone with a regular driver's license may drive a motorhome weighing up to 3,500kg without trouble. However, only individuals who completed their exam before January 1, 1997, may drive a motorhome weighing up to 7,500 kg.

How do you drive a motorhome up to 7,500kg if you passed your test on or after January 1, 1997? You must pass an extra driving test to add the C1 category to your license.

How Old Are You?

The last aspect to consider is your age. At 70 years old, you are required to renew your driver's license. If you follow the regular renewal method, your C1 entitlement will be suspended, and you will be unable to drive motorhomes weighing between 3,500kg and 7,500kg until you pass a medical. Alternatively, you may fill out form D2 and have your GP complete form D4. Your doctor is likely to charge for this service as part of a private session.

What License Do I Need To Drive a Motorhome? 

In the United Kingdom, certain motorhomes require an additional license to be driven lawfully.

The kind of license required is determined by the motorhome's Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM). If the MAM weighs between 3.5 and 7.5 tons, the driver must have a Category C1 license. If the MAM exceeds 7.5 tons, they must have a Category C license.

Maximum Authorised Mass beyond 7.5 tonnes: Category C license.

Maximum Authorised Mass between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes: Category C1 license

Maximum Authorised Mass below 3.5 tonnes: regular driving license

Most motorhomes sold in the UK weigh 7.5 tons or less; therefore, if you need an extra permit, it will likely be a Category C1 licence. American-style RVs generally weigh more than 7.5 tons; however, they are less prevalent in the UK.  

What Is a C1 Licence?

A C1 license is legally required for driving vehicles weighing between 3,500kg and 7,500kg. Many motorhomes weigh less than 3501kg and may be driven with a basic driver's license, although some of the most popular models weigh more than 3500kg.     

What's The Difference Between a C And C1 Licence?   

A C1 Vehicle Licence allows you to operate vehicles with a maximum allowed mass (MAM) of 3,500 to 7,500kg (with a trailer up to 750kg). A C licence, on the other hand, permits you to drive cars weighing more than 3,500kg with trailers weighing up to 750kg maximum allowed mass (MAM).

How Do I Get a C1 License for My Motorhome?

Obtaining a Category C1 license is uncomplicated. It may seem obvious, but you must have a valid UK driver's license (Category B) and be at least 18 years old to qualify for supplementary licensing. You may apply for a provisional license on the government's website. Look for Form D2: Application for a Driver's License for a Truck, Minibus, or Bus. Fill out the form and give your information, including your current license and proof of identification.

For a C1 license, you must additionally pass a medical test to show that you fulfil the medical requirements for driving this vehicle. Drivers who obtained their license before January 1, 1997, are automatically C1 licensed and do not require an additional license; however, they must undergo a medical examination. The following method applies to people who passed their driving test after January 1, 1997.

1. Eligibility

It is critical to ensure that you are qualified to apply for a C1 license. You must be at least 18 years old and already have a category B driver's license.

2. Medical

A medical examination will be necessary, which should be performed by a physician. In preparation for the assessment, you should fill out the D4 form online, which requests information about your medical history and/or conditions that may affect your ability to drive.

3. Application

Once you have passed the medical portion of the application, you should apply for a temporary license (via the DVLA D2). After completing this, submit the D2 (together with the D4) to the DVLA, who will issue your temporary license. Once you obtain this, you may begin learning to drive automobiles with a maximum weight of 7500 kg. However, anybody driving in these cars must be accompanied by someone who has a full C1, C1E, C, or CE license for at least three years.

4. Theory

You must pass three theoretical examinations before taking the practical test. These theoretical assessments include multiple-choice questions, danger perception, and case studies. You may schedule your theory examinations online with Gov.uk.

5. Practical Exam

Once you have completed the theoretical components, you may schedule a practical exam. Expect it to take around an hour and a half, during which you will be evaluated on your driving abilities and safety knowledge. If you pass, you should have your C1 license within two weeks.

What Does a C1 Category Driving Test Involve?

A C1 license, like an ordinary driver's license (Category B), needs both a theoretical and a practical exam. The theory exam consists of multiple-choice questions on traffic rules and C1 cars. It is lengthier than a conventional driving theory exam, with 100 questions (rather than 50) and a passing score of 85.

You will also have to take a danger perception and case study exam. The case study exam is a 75-minute computer-based test that includes a series of brief scenarios related to driving a larger vehicle. You will be asked a total of 50 questions regarding the case studies, with a passing score of 40 out of 50.

The practical exam is divided into two sections that measure your driving safety abilities, ability to operate the vehicle, and proper unloading techniques.

How to Apply For a C1 Provisional License

After your medical examinations have been completed, it is time to get your temporary license.

To apply for a provisional licence, you must complete a D2 form, which can be obtained from the post office or downloaded from the DVLA website here.

Once completed, return your D2 and D4 forms, as well as your driver's license, to the DVLA, which will add the provisional entitlement—more from the DVLA website here.

Your driving license should arrive within three weeks of the DVLA receiving your application. It may take longer if your health or personal information requires examination. Once received, you can begin training to drive 7,500 kg trucks or other HGVs. You will need the assistance of a driving expert who has had a full CE, C, C1E, or C1 license for up to three years. Their driver's license must have been granted after January 1, 1997.

How to Book Your C1 Motorhome Theory Test

You must book your theoretical exams via the Government website. The theoretical examinations you must pass to drive a motorhome and acquire your full C1 license are divided into two parts: a danger perception test and a multiple-choice test in the first part, and questions based on numerous case studies in the second.

C1 Motorhome Multiple Choice Test: You will be given 100 questions regarding vehicle safety and driving bigger cars; to pass, you must answer 85 out of 100 correctly.

C1 Motorhome Hazard Perception Test: You will be required to view 19 one-minute clips that have one danger that you will need to identify after the clip has concluded (one video will include two to catch you out). To pass, you will need to score 67 or higher.

C1 Motorhome Case Study Test: You will be given seven distinct case studies and 50 questions to answer. You'll have 15 minutes to prepare your replies. To pass, you must get a score of 40 out of 50.

How Much Does a C1 Category License Cost?

The three theoretical examinations necessary for a C1 license in the UK now cost £63.00, while the practical test costs £115.00. You may arrange them straight via the government website, but you must have your current license on hand.

Part 1a theory, multiple-choice questions: £26.00

Part 1b Theory - Hazard Perception: £11.00

Part 2 case studies cost £26.00.

Part 3b on-road driving costs £115.00.

You can view the latest price breakdown on GOV.UK Driving Test Costs.

How Long Does It Take to Get My C1 License?

After you pass your practical exam, it usually takes around two weeks for your new license to arrive. As with a conventional driving exam, you cannot take your practical test until you have finished your theory tests; however, your C1 license theoretical tests may be taken in any sequence.

How Long Does a C1 Licence Last?

Your age determines the validity period of your C1 licence. If you are under 44 years old and hold a Category C1 license, you are exempt from renewing it for five years.

If you are over 44 years old and hold a C1 license, you are required to renew it every 12 months.

Drivers reaching 70 years old must renew their license. A medical evaluation form must be submitted to the DVLA, and if everything is in order, the license will be renewed for another three years.

How Do I Know Which Motorhome Is Right for My Licence?

To determine which motorhome is appropriate for your license, check the motorhome's Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) and compare it to your UK driving licence category. A basic Category B automobile license allows you to drive a motorhome with a MAM of 3,500kg or less.

For heavier motorhomes, a Category C1 permit is required for MAMs weighing between 3,500kg and 7,500kg, and a Category C licence for anything weighing more than 7,500kg. When searching for a new motorhome, the vehicle's weight should be clearly stated in the advertisement.

Jackery Solar Generators for Motorhome

After knowing how to obtain and which driving license is required for a motorhome, you can start preparing for your motorhome life. Electricity is the key to motorhome life or off-grid living, so we highly recommend the Jackery Solar Generator as a reliable and clean power supply. The primary advantage is that you are no longer dependent on finding a campsite with an electric hook-up (shore power). This opens up opportunities for wild camping, boondocking, or staying at remote locations. You can visit beautiful natural spots and unlock scenery you've never seen before, without worrying about a disrupted power source.

Unlike traditional, noisy petrol or diesel generators, Jackery units (which are battery-powered) operate silently. You can enjoy the peace of nature without disturbing either yourself or other campers. They produce no toxic fumes or exhaust, making them eco-friendly and safe to use, and can even be recharged inside your motorhome (though solar panels must be located outside).

Choosing solar power is a step towards sustainable living, embodying a dedication to eco-friendly practices and reducing your carbon footprint.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 (which combines the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station with Jackery SolarSaga 100W or 200W solar panels) has several key features that make it well-suited for motorhome and RV use.

Capacity: 1070Wh (Watt-hours) capacity, providing substantial power for multiple days of light use or running larger appliances for a few hours.

Output: Powerful 1500W (Watts) pure sine wave AC output with a 3000W surge peak. This increased wattage (50% higher than the previous version) means it can reliably run high-wattage motorhome essentials, such as portable air conditioners, hair dryers, kettles, mini-fridges, and coffee makers.

LiFePO4 Battery Chemistry (Lithium Iron Phosphate): This is a significant upgrade, offering superior safety and longevity compared to older lithium-ion cells. Engineered for over 4000 charge cycles to 70% capacity, providing a reliable power source for a decade or more of heavy use.

Pure Sine Wave Inverter: The AC power it outputs is clean, stable, and identical to the power from a standard home wall outlet. This is crucial for safely running sensitive electronics in your motorhome, such as laptops, CPAP machines, and camera battery chargers, without risk of damage.

AC Wall Outlet: Achieves a full charge in approximately 1.5 hours (much faster than its predecessor). An even quicker "Emergency Super Charging" mode can be activated via the app to fully charge the unit in just 1 hour when time is critical.

Solar Charging: Highly efficient charging via Jackery's SolarSaga panels (up to 400W max input). For example, it can be recharged in about 7.5 hours with two SolarSaga 100W panels. The flexibility of portable panels allows you to park your motorhome in the shade while placing the panels in direct sunlight for optimal charging.

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 v2

The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 v2 is a popular choice for motorhomes and RV life due to its balance of high power, manageable portability, and advanced features. It combines the Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 portable power station with the SolarSaga 200W solar panel.

High Capacity: With a 2042Wh (Watt-hour) battery capacity, it can run essential RV appliances for a significant amount of time. It can run a 400W refrigerator for an estimated 4.0 hours, a 1000W microwave for about 1.6 hours, or a 100W TV for around 14.2 hours on a single charge.

High Output: It provides a 2200W rated output (with a 4400W surge peak). This is enough to power most common household and RV appliances, including electric kettles, coffee makers, and even some smaller air conditioners (e.g., a 1000W portable AC for about 1.6 hours).

Lighter and Smaller: A key selling point for the v2 model is its compact design. It's often cited as being significantly smaller and lighter than many other 2kWh LiFePO4 power stations, making it easier to store and carry in the limited space of a motorhome. The sturdy, stowable handle makes it relatively easy to move the 38.6 lbs unit.

LiFePO4 Battery: It utilises a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4 or LFP) battery, which provides enhanced safety and a significantly longer lifespan. It's rated for 4,000 charge cycles to 70%+ capacity, meaning it's built to last for many years of off-grid travel. With its long cycle life, the battery is designed to be a reliable, long-term power solution.

Ultra-Quiet: Unlike traditional petrol or diesel generators, the Jackery Solar Generator operates at a remarkably low noise level (as low as 30 dB in Quiet Charging Mode), making it ideal for use in campgrounds, near neighbours, or overnight in your motorhome.

FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about the driving license for a motorhome:

1. Can you drive a motorhome on a standard car licence?

Yes, you may drive a motorhome with a basic vehicle (Category B) license if the Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) is 3.5 tons or less. If the motorhome's MAM is between 3.5 and 7.5 tonnes, you will need a Category C1 permit, whereas vehicles weighing more than 7.5 tonnes will need a Category C licence.

Drivers who passed their test before January 1, 1997, may have 'grandfather privileges' for C1 cars. Still, they should verify their license and have a medical assessment, particularly if they are 70 years old.

2. How do I get a C1 licence for my motorhome?

In the UK, you'll need a Category C1 driving license to drive a motorhome that weighs more than 3,500 kg (up to 7,500 kg). You will need to get this license if you passed your automobile driving test (Category B) after January 1, 1997. You must undergo a medical examination, apply for a temporary C1 license, and pass both the theoretical and practical examinations.

3. What is the heaviest vehicle you can drive on a car licence?

You may drive cars with a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of up to 3,500kg if you have a basic UK automobile driving license (Category B). This includes most vans and cars that can hold up to eight people. The restriction increases to 4,250 kg for electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles that emit no pollution.

4. What license is required for a motorhome in the UK?

You need a category C1 license to operate a motorhome that weighs between 3.5 and 7.5 tons. You need a category C license to operate a motorhome that weighs more than 7.5 tons. Find out what cars you may drive and what age and license criteria you need to tow.

5. What is the biggest motorhome you can drive on a car licence in the UK?

In the UK, you may drive any motorhome that weighs up to 3,500 kg (3.5 tons) with a vehicle license. You must first have a C1 or C entitlement on your license if you wish to drive a bigger campervan.

Final Thoughts

Understanding motorhome license requirements in the UK is critical to safe and legal driving. Most new motorhomes weigh less than 3,500kg and can be driven with a basic car license, although larger vehicles sometimes require a C1 or C entitlement. Drivers who passed their test before 1997 may be eligible for grandfather privileges, although medical examinations become necessary at the age of 70.

You can determine what you can drive by verifying your vehicle's Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) and your current licensing entitlements. Being knowledgeable not only maintains you in compliance with UK legislation, but it also provides a stress-free journey in your motorhome.