New EU Driving Licence Rules for Category B Drivers in 2027

Starting November 26, 2027, new rules for drivers with a Category B license will take effect in the European Union. Specifically, drivers with two years of driving experience will be allowed to operate certain alternative-fuel vehicles weighing up to 4.25 metric tons, instead of the current limit of 3.5 metric tons. Specific changes for camper van owners are planned for 2029. We’ll explain which vehicles the new regulations will apply to, who will be able to take advantage of the new rules, and what foreign drivers need to keep in mind.

Are you planning a trip to Europe by car?

In many countries, highways are tolled and require an electronic road vignette. This is a digital permit that confirms payment for the use of toll roads and is checked automatically by the license plate number - without stickers and paper receipts. Making a vignette online before you travel will help you avoid fines, travel delays, and unpleasant situations during inspections.

What new rules for Category B will be introduced in the EU in 2027?

Currently, a Category B driver’s license in the EU allows the holder to drive vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of up to 3.5 metric tons, designed to carry no more than eight passengers in addition to the driver. The new rules will extend this limit to 4.25 metric tons for certain vehicles.

According to EU Directive 2025/2205, starting November 26, 2027, drivers with a Category B license will be able to drive heavier vehicles under the following conditions:

- Maximum authorized mass: 4,250 kg. The new limit will exceed the standard restriction by 750 kg.

- Driving experience: at least two years. A Class B driver’s license must have been issued at least two years prior to driving a heavier vehicle.

- Vehicle type: alternative fuel. The rules will apply to vehicles that use alternative energy sources, either fully or partially, including electricity, hydrogen, or natural gas.

- Compliance with technical requirements. The vehicle must meet the established limits regarding maximum permissible weight and other specifications.

These changes are particularly relevant for electric vehicles, as heavy batteries can increase their weight beyond the standard 3.5 metric tons. The new limit will allow certain such vehicles to be operated without obtaining a Category C1 license.

Important! The exemption will not automatically apply to all vehicles weighing up to 4.25 metric tons. For conventional gasoline and diesel vehicles, the general Category B limit will remain at 3.5 metric tons. Driving heavier recreational vehicles will be governed by separate provisions of the reform.

In our previous article, we discussed the best family car models in 2027.

When will the new rules take effect, and in which EU countries?

The new rules for Category B drivers will be implemented in phases. EU Directive 2025/2205 took effect on November 25, 2025, but member states were given time to amend their national legislation.

Three main phases are planned:

- November 26, 2027 – EU countries must implement provisions allowing drivers with two years of experience to operate alternative-fuel vehicles weighing up to 4.25 metric tons.

- November 26, 2028 – the main deadline for transposing the remaining provisions of the directive into national legislation.

- November 26, 2029 – the start of the application of most other new provisions, including new rules for heavier recreational vehicles.

The changes will apply to all 27 European Union member states, including Germany, Poland, France, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands. However, specific administrative procedures will be determined by national authorities.

Some countries already have specific exemptions in place for heavier vehicles. For example, Germany has special driving conditions for certain alternative-fuel vehicles weighing up to 4.25 metric tons. However, such national permits are not always automatically recognized in other countries.

Drivers planning international road trips should check not only their license category but also the rules of their destination country. This applies in particular to rental cars, electric vans, and motorhomes with a maximum authorized mass exceeding 3.5 metric tons.

Learn more about the most fuel-efficient cars of 2026 by following the link.

What will change for motorhome and RV drivers?

New EU regulations will expand opportunities for owners of campers and motorhomes. Starting November 26, 2029, drivers with a Class B license will be able to operate such vehicles weighing up to 4.25 metric tons after completing additional training or passing a practical test.

According to EU Directive 2025/2205, the following conditions apply:

- Camper weight: up to 4,250 kg. The authorization will apply to motorhomes regardless of engine type, including gasoline and diesel models.

- Additional training. Drivers will be required to complete a special training course lasting at least seven hours or pass a practical exam. EU countries may require compliance with both conditions.

- Campers with trailers. The maximum permitted weight of the vehicle combination may be up to 5 metric tons, provided that the relevant requirements are met.

- Confirmation of driving eligibility. A special EU code, 96.02, will be indicated on the driver’s license, confirming the right to drive a heavier camper.

The training program will cover safe maneuvering, braking, parking, reversing, proper vehicle loading, and other skills for driving a heavy vehicle.

Until the new rules take effect, drivers with a Class B license must adhere to the current 3.5-metric-ton weight limit, unless national legislation provides for a specific exception. As a general rule, driving heavier motorhomes requires a Class C1 license or another appropriate driving authorization.

For tourists, this means a wider selection of motorhomes when traveling through Europe. However, before renting a motorhome, you must check its maximum permitted weight in the registration documents, the rental company’s terms and conditions, and whether your driver’s license includes the appropriate authorization.

We previously covered The Top 10 Most Reliable Electric Vehicles: Which Models Are Worth Considering in 2026.

What Do Foreign Drivers Need to Know Before Traveling to the EU?

The new rules for Category B in the EU will apply not only to citizens of member states but also to foreigners who hold valid driver’s licenses. However, the ability to drive a vehicle weighing up to 4.25 metric tons will depend on the country where the license was issued, its recognition, and compliance with established requirements.

Before a road trip through Europe, you should check:

- Recognition of your driver’s license. Licenses issued in one EU country are generally recognized in other EU member states. For licenses from non-EU countries, specific national requirements apply. Sometimes an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

- Driving experience. To drive alternative-fuel vehicles weighing more than 3.5 metric tons, you must have at least two years of driving experience in Category B.

- Maximum permitted vehicle weight. You must check the value listed in the registration documents, not the vehicle’s actual weight at the time of travel.

- Vehicle rental terms. Rental companies may set their own requirements regarding age, driving experience, and license category. This applies particularly to RVs and large electric vans.

- Auto insurance. The policy must be valid in the countries along the route, and the driver must be authorized to operate the specific vehicle.

Special attention should be paid to licenses issued outside the EU. The expansion of Category B privileges does not mean automatic recognition of all foreign driver’s licenses. Before traveling, it is necessary to check the regulations of the specific country.

Drivers planning to purchase a heavier electric vehicle or rent a camper van between 2027 and 2029 should check in advance when the relevant regulations take effect. They should also confirm whether additional training is required and whether the permit is valid in all countries along the planned route.

Are you traveling abroad with your own car or a rented car?

Before traveling, it is important to check whether a road vignette is required for toll roads in the countries of your route. Failure to have a valid vignette can result in fines and automatic camera recordings of violations. Getting an electronic vignette from Visit World is an easy way to travel more relaxed, without unnecessary expenses and surprises on the road!

We remind you! Traveling through Europe in 2026 does not have to be expensive, even despite the general rise in prices. Analysts have compiled a rating of the most affordable destinations where you can combine relaxation, experiences, and moderate expenses. Follow the link to learn about budget locations in Europe that are worth considering for your 2026 vacation.

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