If you own a large motorhome and want to tow a car, bike trailer, or box trailer behind it, you may need a C1+E licence — and many motorhome owners do not realise this until they are already on the road. This guide explains when C1+E is required for motorhome owners and how to obtain it.
When Does a Motorhome Require a C1 Licence?
Most motorhomes fall into one of two licence categories:
- Category B (car licence): Motorhomes with a MAM of 3,500 kg or less. These can be driven on a standard car licence.
- Category C1: Motorhomes with a MAM between 3,500 kg and 7,500 kg. These require a C1 licence.
Large A-class motorhomes, coach-built models, and American RVs frequently have a MAM in the C1 range. Check the VIN plate on your motorhome or your V5C registration document to confirm the MAM.
When Do Motorhome Owners Need C1+E?
If your motorhome falls in the C1 weight range (3,500–7,500 kg MAM) and you want to tow any of the following with a MAM exceeding 750 kg, you need C1+E:
- A car on a trailer or A-frame.
- A motorcycle trailer.
- A box trailer for luggage or equipment.
- A boat trailer.
- Any other trailer with a MAM over 750 kg.
Remember: it is the trailer's MAM (maximum authorised mass) that determines the licence requirement, not the actual weight of the load on the day.
What About Drivers Who Passed Before 1 January 1997?
If you passed your car driving test before 1 January 1997, you may have C1 entitlement as a grandfather right. However, this does not include C1+E. You will still need to train and pass the C1+E practical test to tow a trailer heavier than 750 kg MAM behind a C1 motorhome.
C1+E Training for Motorhome Owners
GS Driver Training offers C1+E training tailored to motorhome owners. Our instructors understand that many motorhome owners are experienced road drivers who simply need to develop their trailer handling skills and learn the DVSA test requirements. Training covers:
- Coupling and uncoupling the trailer safely.
- Reversing with a trailer — the most technically demanding element of the test.
- Road driving with the outfit: mirror use, lane discipline, speed management, and planning.
- DVSA test procedures and examiner expectations.
How Long Will Training Take?
Most motorhome owners with good road experience need between two and three days of C1+E training to reach test standard. The majority of training time is spent on reversing exercises, which most candidates find the most challenging aspect.
Book Your C1+E Motorhome Training
GS Driver Training is based in Surrey and trains candidates from across the South East. View our C1+E course details or call 01252 447808 to discuss your training needs.
