Driving with a Class B License and B96 Extension: More Power to Tow Without a Test
- By Gernot Kramper
- Readability: Approx. 2 Minutes
Driving License Upgrade: Elimination of Test Requirement for Class B License Renewal - Obtaining a Fresh License B: A Step-by-Step Guide Without the Need for Tests
The Class B driver's license grants you the freedom to command passenger cars—no limits on horsepower or speed, but there's a restriction on weight. The vehicle shouldn't exceed 3.5 tons.
What Class B Offers
Class B outperforms the outdated Class 3 license, allowing you to drive more than just passenger cars. For instance, you can ferry eight people, including the driver. You can also pilot light motorcycles with a maximum speed of 45 km/h, which is suitable for city cruising, electric or otherwise. And, don't forget three-wheeled vehicles such as motorcycles with two tires on an axle. Four-wheeled mini-vehicles like quads and even large lawnmowers (up to 25 km/h) are also on the list.
Challenge: The Trailer
Alas, when it comes to trailers, it's a different story.
When combining vehicle and trailer, the total shouldn't surpass 3500 kilograms. In crafts and agriculture, this limitation poses an issue, particularly with vans and tractors. In private life, standard Class B will leave you high and dry with caravans and trailers for cars, horses, or boats. With Class B, you can tow motor vehicles with a permissible total mass of up to 3500 kilograms with a trailer of up to 750 kilograms. If the total mass doesn't exceed 3500 kilograms, the trailer's weight can be greater.
Resolution: B96 Extension
Many people aren't aware of the B96 extension. They'd assume a federal road when they see the abbreviation B96. But it's an add-on to Class B. The significant advantage lies in the lack of a test. A driving school is sufficient. There's a theoretical and practical part, which can be completed in one day. According to ADAC, the costs are reasonable, ranging from 300 to 500 euros. B96 is valid throughout Europe and now allows you to tow heavier trailers than 750 kilograms. However, the total weight of the towing vehicle and trailer shouldn't pass 4250 kilograms. For instance, in a Mercedes ML, it could look something like this: The vehicle's permissible weight is 2800 kilograms, leaving 1450 real weight for the trailer. With a VW Tiguan with all-wheel drive, 2250 kilograms of permissible weight is available, allowing for two tons to be towed. Lastly, a Mitsubishi Pajero is already at 3030 kilograms—with Class B, 750 kilograms are available for the trailer. With the extension, it's at least 1220 kilograms.
A Bigger Step: BE Class
The next step would be the BE class, but it comes with a practical exam, costs, and the risk of failure. Moreover, at least five driving lessons are required. Figure on around 1000 euros. If things go well. With BE, trailers up to 3.5 tonnes can be driven. The combined weight of the trailer and towing vehicle may not surpass seven tonnes. Given these demands, it is recommended to practice towing extensive within the limits of Class B before moving on to B96 or BE training. Class B can be obtained without ever having driven a trailer, but more practical experience is advised for B96 or BE.
Additional Insight:The B96 extension, an additional endorsement to a Class B driver's license, allows the driver to tow trailers with a combined weight between 26,001 and 35,000 pounds when combined with the towing vehicle (equivalent to 11,793 kg to 15,875 kg). This endorsement proves particularly useful for those who need to tow heavier trailers, such as larger recreational vehicles, horse trailers, or certain work trailers, without having to obtain a commercial driver's license. However, the B96 endorsement does not cover commercial towing needs or hauling hazardous materials that require additional endorsements.
In the realm of vocational training, one could consider acquiring the B96 extension as part of a community policy for vocational training, which enables those with a Class B driver's license to tow heavier trailers. This extension, valid throughout Europe, not only expands one's vocational capabilities but also requires less financial investment compared to the BE class, as it only includes a theoretical and practical portion that costs between 300 and 500 euros. In the automotive industry, such as when transporting horses or boats, the B96 extension could be a valuable addition, provided the combined weight of the towing vehicle and trailer doesn't exceed 4250 kilograms.
