B96 practical test: what must you demonstrate, and is theory repeated?

For code 96, the Italian Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MIT) provides a practical test of ability and behaviour, recorded as code 96 on the licence. A new theory exam is not normally required when the original category B theory exam was passed after 1 December 2013; older cases may require an oral check during the practical test.

Code 96 is a practical extension

Code 96 covers a specified B-car and trailer combination whose maximum authorised mass is over 3,500 kg and no more than 4,250 kg, subject to the trailer and vehicle rules. The MIT procedure requires an ability and behaviour test with a combination suitable for the requested extension. After passing, code 96 is entered on the driving licence. It is not a separate licence category such as BE, and it does not increase the car’s approved towing mass.

A candidate does not normally repeat the B theory exam if they passed it after 1 December 2013. The MIT page notes an exception for candidates who took the B theory test earlier: an oral examination on the rules and technical conditions for safe driving may take place during the first stage of the practical test. Check your own exam record and the current MIT procedure rather than assuming every candidate has identical requirements.

Example: a driver passed the B theory exam in 2020 and now wants code 96. They should arrange the required practical test with a suitable combination, rather than book another full theory exam. A candidate whose B theory exam was before the stated date must check whether the additional oral stage applies.

Prepare with the right combination

Ask the driving school or motor vehicle office which vehicle combination will be used and which manoeuvres and checks are included in the current programme. Practise coupling, reversing and controlling the combination with a qualified instructor. The exam is a practical assessment; quizzes can help with the rules but cannot replace vehicle practice.

Before the test, verify the masses shown in both vehicle documents, the car’s towing capacity and the trailer’s technical approval. Passing does not authorise a combination whose technical limits are exceeded. Quiz Patente Ufficiale can help you review the theory on categories and trailer rules, including questions you answered incorrectly. For the driving test itself, practise with your instructor and the exam vehicle.

Quiz Patente Ufficiale helps you revise licence categories and towing rules; practical manoeuvres require practice with a qualified instructor.