Driving licences are divided into different categories that specify what type of vehicles a person is legally allowed to drive. These categories vary slightly between countries, but most follow similar rules based on vehicle size, weight, and purpose. Understanding licence categories is important for staying compliant with the law and ensuring road safety. car licence categories
Common Car Licence Categories
1. Category B – Standard Car Licence
- Covers vehicles up to 3,500 kg Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM).
- Allows you to drive cars and small vans with up to 8 passenger seats.
- You may tow a small trailer up to 750 kg, or a heavier one if the total weight of vehicle and trailer does not exceed 3,500 kg.
- In many countries, this is the most common licence category for everyday drivers.
2. Category B+E – Car and Trailer
- Allows drivers to tow larger trailers over 750 kg, provided the vehicle and trailer combined can weigh more than 3,500 kg.
- Often needed for people towing caravans, horseboxes, or large equipment trailers.
3. Category C1 – Medium Vehicles
- Covers vehicles weighing between 3,500 kg and 7,500 kg.
- May include small trucks, delivery vehicles, or large vans.
- A trailer up to 750 kg is usually allowed.
4. Category C1+E – Medium Vehicles with Trailers
- Allows C1 vehicles to tow trailers over 750 kg.
- The combined weight of vehicle and trailer must not exceed 12,000 kg.
5. Category D1 – Minibuses
- Allows driving minibuses with 9–16 passenger seats.
- May include a trailer up to 750 kg.
- Typically required for small passenger transport services.
6. Category D1+E – Minibus with Trailer
- Extends D1 by allowing towing of trailers over 750 kg with a minibus.
Why Licence Categories Matter
- Legal compliance – Driving outside your licence category can lead to fines, penalty points, or disqualification.
- Road safety – Vehicles of different sizes require different skills and knowledge.
- Career opportunities – Certain jobs in transport, logistics, or passenger services require higher licence categories.