Can You Drive a Motorhome on a Normal Licence?

If you dream of road trips, scenic views, and cosy nights in a camper, you might be wondering if you can drive a motorhome with your ordinary UK driver's licence. Yes, in many circumstances you can. However, it all depends on the vehicle's weight and, in some situations, when you passed your driver's test.

Understanding Licence Categories

In the United Kingdom, a basic driver's licence is known as a Category B licence, and it permits you to drive vehicles weighing up to 3,500kg maximum authorised mass. This covers the majority of small- to mid-size motor homes and campervans, making them available to anyone with a conventional driver's licence.

Some of the most popular Swift motorhomes, such as the Swift Monza and the Swift Voyager, fall under the 3,500kg weight limit. That means you can drive them without needing to upgrade your licence.

What If the Motorhome Weighs More?

If the motorhome you're considering weighs more than 3,500kg but less than 7,500kg, you'll require a Category C1 licence. This sort of licence necessitates a separate theoretical and practical test, as well as a medical examination. It is not difficult to obtain, but there is an extra step if you are considering larger vehicles such as the Swift Kon-Tiki or an Adria Supersonic (which can weigh up to 4,500-5,000 kg MAM).

For motorhomes weighing over 7,500kg, a Category C licence is required—this is the same licence used for driving lorries, so it involves more intensive training and testing.

Did You Pass Your Test Before 1997?

Here’s a handy bonus for more experienced drivers: if you passed your test before 1 January 1997, your licence might already include C1 entitlement. This status means you can legally drive motorhomes up to 7,500kg without needing to take extra tests. It’s worth checking the back of your licence to see which categories are listed.

Important Extras to Know

• Height matters: If your motorhome is over 3 metres tall, you must display a notice inside the cab showing the height clearly for the driver.
• Length and width limits: You can’t register a motorhome in the UK that’s more than 12 metres long or 2.55 metres wide (excluding mirrors and bumpers).
• Towing rules: Want to tow a car or trailer behind your motorhome? Additional rules and licence categories may apply depending on the combined weight.