When does a caravan require B96 or BE?

With a caravan attached, the licence depends on the maximum authorised masses of car and trailer. B covers combinations up to 3,500 kg; code 96 applies above that up to 4,250 kg after the required test. Above 4,250 kg, BE may be required if the trailer does not exceed 3,500 kg.

Calculate the combination’s authorised mass

For the licence category, the caravan’s empty weight or the bags carried on one trip are not decisive. Add the car’s and caravan’s maximum authorised masses from their respective documents. With B, a trailer over 750 kg is allowed if the authorised combination does not exceed 3,500 kg. Above 3,500 and up to 4,250 kg, the driver needs the B extension with code 96 after passing the specified practical test.

If the combination is over 4,250 kg, assess category BE. The maximum authorised mass of the trailer or semi-trailer for BE cannot exceed 3,500 kg. A heavier trailer may require another category. Code 96 is not automatic: it must be recorded on the licence after the required test.

Check the car’s technical limits separately

Even with B96 or BE, the car must be approved to tow that caravan. Check its braked towing capacity, allowed vertical coupling load and maximum combination values. A licence does not increase the car’s technical capacity. Check axle loading and tyre pressures after packing luggage and equipment.

Before travelling, compare the mass fields in both documents and inspect the tow bar, brakes, lights and stabiliser. If a value is near a threshold, use the official figures without rounding and ask the Motor Vehicle Office or manufacturer to clarify missing data.

Example

If the car is approved at 2,200 kg and the caravan at 1,100 kg, the combination is 3,300 kg: B may cover the licence threshold if the car can technically tow it. If the caravan is approved at 1,800 kg, the total is 4,000 kg and code 96 is needed. At 4,500 kg with a trailer no heavier than 3,500 kg, BE should be assessed.

Quiz Patente Ufficiale offers theory quizzes and mistake review for licence study; calculate the real caravan combination from the documents and the car’s towing capacity.

Quiz Patente Ufficiale helps study licence categories with quizzes and mistake review; compare authorised masses and towing limits for a caravan.