What are the license requirements for driving a motorhome?
3 Answers
Driving a motorhome requires a C1, A1, or B1 driver's license. Below is relevant information about motorhomes: Different types of motorhomes require different licenses: For self-propelled or towable motorhomes with a total length under 6 meters, a total weight under 4.5 tons, and seating fewer than 9 people, a C1 driver's license is sufficient. For motorhomes exceeding 6 meters in length or seating more than 9 people, an A1 or B1 driver's license is required. Classification of motorhome types: Motorhomes are divided into two main categories: towable motorhomes and self-propelled motorhomes, which are further subdivided into 9 different models: self-propelled Type A, self-propelled Type B, self-propelled Type C; towable Type A, towable Type B, towable Type C, towable Type D; as well as mobile villa Type A, mobile villa Type B, and racing-style and campsite-style models. Precautions for driving a motorhome: On highways, motorhomes are not allowed to use the leftmost high-speed lane and must stay in the middle or right slow lanes. Otherwise, they may be photographed or stopped by police and fined directly. Since motorhomes fall under the "truck" category (some are built on truck chassis), there are currently no dedicated lanes for motorhomes.
Last time I planned a family RV trip, I specifically checked the license requirements. For motorhomes, it depends on the size of the model you choose. For blue-plate RVs under 6 meters in length and with fewer than 9 seats, a regular C1 license is sufficient. If you opt for those luxurious extended models exceeding 6 meters in length, they require yellow plates and an A1 license. Additionally, towable RVs are becoming popular now, which require a C6 license. I just upgraded to a C6 license, which involves passing the reverse parking and curve driving tests in the second subject—it was quite challenging to obtain. Also, when choosing a towable RV, remember to check if the main vehicle's registration certificate specifies the permitted towing mass—this detail is often overlooked.
I'm reminding you about RV driver's license requirements from a road trip perspective. RVs are divided into motorized and towable types. Motorized RVs are simpler - a regular Class C license can drive small motorhomes. But towable RVs require obtaining a Class C6 license, which includes special test items like simulated slippery roads and 90-degree turns. Let me emphasize the towing vehicle requirements: many SUVs today aren't legally allowed to tow, so you must confirm the vehicle has certified towing capacity before purchase, and the tow hitch must be from a certified manufacturer. The combined weight of the tow vehicle and RV shouldn't exceed 4.5 tons - don't underestimate this weight limit, as getting caught exceeding it can mean penalty points.
