Expand Your Trails: Get More Mileage from Your Class B License Without a Test
- by Gernot Kramper
- ⏰ 2 Min Read
Obtaining a Class B License Without a Test: A Guide on Skipping the Examination Process - Multiple Class B Driving Licences Granted Without On-Road Assessment
In good old days, gaining your third class driver's license was the ticket to drive passenger cars. But times change, and now we're centering on Class B, the ultimate standard that lets you handle all your passenger car needs. Don't worry about horsepower or speed; Class B's got you covered. However, there's a catch - the weight limit is at 3.5 tons.
What Can a Class B License Hold?
While Class 3 might have been the reigning champ back then, Class B leaves it in the dust in more ways than one. Along with passenger cars, you can drive vehicles carrying up to eight passengers (including the driver). Plus, you'll be able to handle small motorcycles with maximum speeds of 45 km/h and light three-wheeled vehicles, such as certain motorcycles with double-tired axles and quads. To cap it off, you can even operate tractors (up to 40 km/h), large mowers (up to 25 km/h), and certain heavy-duty transport vehicles.
Trailer Troubles
But don't count on your Class B license to tow the line when it comes to trailers. A vehicle and trailer combination should not exceed 3500 kilograms. So, if you're planning on using a box van or a similar vehicle for hauling, don't expect much weight flexibility. Private use might be a different story; it's not uncommon to surpass the limit with caravans, horse trailers, or boat trailers.
With Class B, you can drive motor vehicles with a permissible total weight (zGM) of up to 3500 kilograms, and trailers with a permissible total weight (zGM) of up to 750 kilograms. If the total weight of the combination does not exceed 3500 kilograms, the trailer can be heavier.
A Lighter Solution: B96 Extension
Might you think of getting the light truck class plus trailer operation license - aka C1 plus C1E? Don't do it! It'll cost you quite a pretty penny, especially if you don't plan on becoming a trucking buddy.
What's the solution, then? The B96 extension, babies! Many don't know about this path, as it sounds like a Federal highway when you hear "B96." But it's actually an extension of Class B. The lovely perks? No test required! A driving school will suffice; it includes theoretical and practical parts, which can be completed within a day. According to ADAC, costs range from 300 to 500 euros. And the best part? It's valid throughout Europe, so you can haul heavier trailers than 750 kilograms. But remember, the combined weight of the tow vehicle and trailer should not exceed 4250 kilograms.
For example, with an SUV like the Mercedes ML (2800 kg permissible weight), you'll have 1450 kilograms left for the trailer. With a VW Tiguan (2250 kg all-wheel-drive), you can tow two tons. And the last example - a Mitsubishi Pajero already weighs 3030 kg - you'll have at least 1220 kilograms for the trailer with Class B + B96.
Before diving into the BE class, consider working extensively with a trailer within Class B limits. The B96 extension can be obtained without any tow truck mileage under your belt, but more practical experience is always beneficial. Plus, you'll need at least five driving lessons for the BE class and a heftier budget of around 1000 euros (and potential failure risk, too). With an BE license, you can tow trailers up to 3.5 tons, but the combined weight must not surpass 7 tons.
Sources: ADAC 1, ADAC 2
- Driver's License
- Traffic Law
- Vehicle
Extra Info for the Road:
The B96 extension, a part of the European Union's driving license category system, allows a Class B driver to tow a trailer with a maximum authorized mass (MAM) beyond the standard 750 kg. However, in the United States, specific regulations about driver's licenses and towing weight limitations differ by state. For detailed information, consult your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) guidelines. As of now, there's no official mention of a "B96 extension" in the context of American driver's licenses or towing laws. So, research and know your location's rules before hitting the road.
- The B96 extension, a part of the European Union's driving license category system, enables a Class B driver to tow trailers with a maximum authorized mass beyond the standard 750 kg, making it essential for finance considerations when choosing vocational training.
- In the automotive industry, having a Class B license with a B96 extension can provide more job opportunities in transportation sectors requiring heavy trailers, especially within the European community policy.
