Do I need a special licence to drive a motorhome or campervan?

The simple answer to whether you need a special licence to drive a motorhome or campervan is, no you don’t need one.

However, there are a few things you do need to know before getting out and about in your vehicle.

What weight of vehicle can I drive?

Like we mentioned you don’t need a special licence to drive your motorhome or campervan, but you do need to check your licence to see what weight of vehicle you can drive.

If you passed your driving test before 1 January 1997, your driving licence will show you are qualified to drive B and C1 class vehicles—category B covers vehicles with maximum weights up to 3,500kg and class C1 covers vehicles up to 7,500kg.

However, if you passed your driving test after January 1997, your entitlement is restricted to class B—motorhomes with a maximum gross vehicle (ie fully loaded) weight of 3,500kg. If this is the case for you, and you want to drive motorhomes heavier than 3,500kg, you will have to take an additional test.

Furthermore, if you want to drive a motorhome with a maximum weight of over 7.5 tonnes, you need category C on your driving licence. Again, if you don’t have that, it entails a further test.

These maximum weight figures can be expressed as GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight), (MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass) or even MTPLM (Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass) and includes the initial weight (ie kerbweight or unladen weight) of the motorhome as well as its payload capacity (the amount of personal kit, including passengers, you can add).

Please note this article refers to the UK. If you’re planning to take your vehicle abroad, even across the water to Europe, seek appropriate advice.

Related: How to get a C1 licence

Is there an age limit when driving a motorhome or campervan on your driver’s licence?

It is good to note that age can factor into whether or not you can drive your motorhome or campervan on your driving licence.

As outlined by the government when you reach 70 years of age, you will need to re-apply for your driving licence. This is a straightforward procedure proving you’re only wanting to drive vehicles up to 3,500kg.

However, if you want to maintain C1 status (vehicles between 3,500kg and 7,500kg), or more, you will need to have a medical assessment. This can be organised via your doctor.

Possible legislation changes are afoot

Here in the UK, a significant number of motorhomes—including campervans—are already badged as having a maximum weight of 3,500kg, or less. However, at the time of writing (March 2024), high-level discussions are taking place to shift that weight limit up—to as much as 4,250kg.

If all goes to plan, that could happen within the next two years. That could mean anyone with a full driving licence can drive a motorhome with a maximum weight of 4,250kg. This 4,250kg maximum is significant because it covers pretty much every motorhome in the UK except the very heaviest (and largest).

To keep up to date with all the latest information you can visit the government website on driving a motorhome.

Going electric

Just one of the factors at play here is the on-going commitment to electrical vehicles which, somewhat ironically, weigh more than their combustion engine equivalents.

If you’re planning on buying an electrically-powered motorhome, you can drive one of these up to a maximum weight of 4,250kg on a standard driving licence. The same applies for vehicles powered by hydrogen or any non-fossil fuel, even including oil previously used for frying food.

Specialist motorhome and campervan insurance through Ripe

Now you’re ready to take your motorhome or campervan out for a spin, it is worth considering specialist insurance to give you peace of mind while out on the open road.

Through Ripe, you can cover your motorhome or campervan against theft, accidental damage, fire, flood, and more. You can also get cover for your motorhome or campervan equipment and accessories, giving you complete peace of mind on the road.

Find out more about specialist motorhome and campervan insurance through Ripe or get an online quote today.