What Driver's License is Required for RV Driving?
3 Answers
Different types of RVs require different driver's licenses. For a towable RV with a length less than 6 meters, a total weight under 4500kg, and seating fewer than 9 people, a C1 driver's license is required, and it must have a blue license plate. For an RV longer than 6 meters, the required license varies based on the vehicle's length and passenger capacity, including A1, A2, or B1 licenses, and it must have a yellow license plate. For an RV longer than 9 meters, an A1 driver's license is required, and it must have a yellow license plate. Classification of RVs: RVs are divided into towable RVs and motorized RVs, but they can be further categorized into Type A motorized, Type B motorized, Type C motorized; Type A towable, Type B towable, Type C towable, Type D towable; as well as Type A mobile villas, Type B mobile villas, and racing-style and campsite-style RVs.
Last time before my RV trip, I specifically checked the driver's license requirements. For motorhomes, the key factors are vehicle length and weight. RVs under 6 meters can be driven with a C1 license, but anything longer requires a B1 license. Small RVs with blue license plates are generally fine with C1, while large coach-converted RVs need an A1 license. It's best to check the vehicle parameters on the registration certificate. For towable RVs, extra attention is needed as the trailer portion requires a separate yellow license plate. I recommend consulting the DMV in advance, as some people have been penalized for driving the wrong vehicle type. Beginners should practice gradually with RVs - turning and parking are more challenging than with regular cars, especially with towable models which are prone to trailer sway.
Choosing the right driver's license for an RV depends on the vehicle's characteristics. For ordinary family RVs, a C1 license is usually sufficient, provided the total length does not exceed 6 meters and seating capacity is no more than 9. Larger RVs resembling buses require an A1 license, while medium-sized ones can be driven with a B1. For trailer RVs, new regulations now mandate a C6 license, with tests including reversing and right-angle turns. I always remind friends that a regular car license isn't enough—exceeding weight or length limits constitutes driving without proper authorization. RVs have a high center of gravity and are prone to rollovers, so extra caution is needed when changing lanes and controlling speed. It's best to bring your driver's license to the rental location for on-site confirmation.
