Driving Bigger Trailers with Class B License: A Review of the B96 Extension
- by Gernot Kramper
- 2 Min
Potential Extension for Class B Driver's License Without Re-Examination Required - Obtaining a Fresh License B Without a Test: Guidelines for Acquisition
The Class B driver's license holds a significant group of vehicles at its disposal, with no restrictions on speed or horsepower but weight limits—a maximum of 3.5 tons.
Class B: A Comprehensive Passenger Vehicle Permit
Although the Class 3 license may appear to surpass B, it caters to more than just passenger vehicles. You can maneuver vehicles accommodating up to eight passengers, including the driver, and manage small motor vehicles that can travel up to 45 km/h. Additionally, you can operate three-wheeled motorcycles, four-wheeled small vehicles like quads, and even some farm machinery like tractors and combine harvesters, up to specific speed limits.
A Hiccup: The Trailer Conundrum
The trouble arises with trailers, as the combined weight of vehicle and trailer should not surpass 3500 kilograms. In trades, industries, or agriculture, the trailer weight allowance often falls short of the requirement, especially when it comes to caravans, horse trailers, or boat trailers. With Class B, you can drive vehicles with a permissible total weight of up to 3500 kilograms with a trailer up to 750 kilograms, but the total weight combination should not exceed 3500 kilograms.
Looking Beyond Class B: The B96 Extension
With the thought of the class for "light trucks" plus trailer operation (i.e., C1 + C1E) rushing to mind, one might consider this as a solution. However, the costs and effort rebuff this notion, especially for those unwilling to drive a truck.
The B96 extension presents itself as the solution in such instances. Unbeknownst to many, B96 is an extension of Class B rather than a separate class. Although the abbreviation might seem like it indicates a federal road, it signifies enhanced towing capabilities. The upside is that no test is required, only training at a driving school, with a theoretical and practical portion that can often be completed in a single day. According to ADAC, the costs are reasonable, ranging from 300 to 500 euros. The B96 extension permits towing heavier trailers than the standard 750 kilograms, and the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer should not exceed 4250 kilograms.
The Next Steps: Tow More With BE
The BE class stands as the next step for those who need to tow trailers exceeding 3.5 tonnes, but this requires a practical exam with additional costs and the risk of failure. Additionally, there's a demand for at least five driving lessons, which could set you back around 1000 euros. If you want to operate trailers up to 3.5 tonnes, with a combined weight of not more than seven tonnes, the BE class might be the right step for you. Before undertaking this training, make sure to practice driving with a trailer within the Class B limitations to build a solid foundation for the B96 or BE extensions.
Sources: ADAC 1, ADAC 2
- Driver's License
- Traffic Law
- Vehicle
Enrichment Data Insights:
- The B96 extension for Class B drivers' licenses permits towing heavier trailers than the standard 750 kilograms with no additional tests, provided the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer never exceeds 4,250 kilograms.
- The process to obtain the extension includes theoretical training of approximately 150 minutes and practical training involving approximately 210 minutes of practical exercises plus an additional driving lesson in real-traffic.
- The age limit to obtain the B96 extension is generally 18 years, although some exceptions apply for accompanied driving at 17 or for certain vocational training license holders. The specific national procedures may vary among European countries.
- The BE class is the next step for those who need to tow trailers exceeding 3.5 tonnes, but it demands an additional practical exam, minimum driving lessons, and higher costs, making the B96 extension an appealing alternative for many.
Sources:1. ADAC - Driver's License & Traffic Law Knowledge Base2. German Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure - Regulations & Permits
- The B96 extension for Class B drivers' licenses, which allows for towing heavier trailers, requires training at a driving school with both theoretical and practical portions, as outlined by ADAC, with costs generally ranging from 300 to 500 euros.
- Upon mastering the B96 extension, drivers can tow trailers with a combined weight of up to 4250 kilograms, surpassing the standard 3500 kilograms limit with a Class B driver's license, thereby supporting various industries, vocational training, and transportation needs, such as the automotive industry and finance sectors that may require larger trailers for transportation.
