C1 Licence: What it means and why it matters
A C1 licence allows you to drive vehicles between 3,500kg and 7,500kg. Including most larger motorhomes. If you passed your car test after 1 January 1997, you do not have C1 automatically.
The C1 category covers vehicles between 3,500kg and 7,500kg MAM. Many popular motorhomes. Especially coachbuilts and A-classes. Exceed 3,500kg, which means a standard Category B car licence is not enough. If you passed your driving test before 1 January 1997, your licence automatically includes C1 entitlement (check the back of your photocard licence for category C1). If you passed after that date, you need to take a separate C1 test, which involves a medical, theory test, and practical driving test in a suitable vehicle. The test typically costs £800-1,500 through a training school.
Why this matters
Driving a motorhome over 3,500kg without C1 entitlement is driving without a licence. If stopped, you face prosecution, your insurance is void, and you could be banned from driving.
Common misunderstandings
- Having a towbar or towing experience does not give you C1
- The 1997 cutoff is based on when you passed your test, not when you were born
- Some motorhomes labelled as "3,500kg" actually have a higher GVW. Always check the chassis plate
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Frequently Asked Questions
Typically £800-1,500 through a training school, plus DVLA medical and test fees. Most people complete the course in 3-5 days.
Check the back of your photocard licence. If C1 appears in the categories table, you have it. If you passed your car test before 1 January 1997, you almost certainly have it.