How to Get a C1 Licence for Driving Large Motorhomes

These days, you can drive many of the motorhomes on the market on a standard category B driving licence. In fact, any motorhome which has a maximum loading weight of 3500kg or less can be driven on regular car driving licences without additional qualifications – that goes for the majority of compact or coachbuilt motorhomes. However, you may be looking for something a little larger, which showcases the very best that home-from-home living has to offer: an A-class motorhome. If that’s the case, you’ll need to get what’s called a C1 licence.

The C1 Licence Explained

If you’re looking at buying a motorhome between 3,500kg and 7500kg, you’ll need to get a C1 licence, which can last anywhere between one and five years. If you’re over the age of 44, your licence will have to be renewed annually. If you are younger than 44, your licence will need renewing every five years.

There’s one exception to obtaining a C1 licence. If you passed your driving test before 1st January 1997, your licence will already have the C1 entitlement listed, and you won’t be required to get an additional licence. You do, however, have to pass a D4 which is a medical assessment to test your vision for driving safety.

How do I get a C1 driving licence?

1. Firstly, check that you are eligible

In order for your application to be considered, you must be over 18 and already hold a category B driving licence.

2. Complete your medical assessment

Unlike anything involved in obtaining a standard category B licence, you’ll need to undergo a medical assessment – completed by a doctor. You can get your D4 form online prior to your assessment where you will asked about your medical history and any conditions that might affect your driving ability and safety.

3. Apply for your provisional licence

After passing the medical, you’re eligible to apply for a provisional licence via a form called a D2 from the DVLA. Following this, you must send both the D4 and D2 to the DVLA so that they can send you your provisional licence which will allow you to start training in vehicles up to 7500kg. This must be done under the supervision of someone who has held a full C1, C1E, C or CE licence for at least three years and passed their initial driving test after 1st January 1997.

4. Pass your theory test

You must past three theory tests before you move onto your practical exam. The three parts - 100 multiple choice questions, hazard perception and case study tests - may be booked online at Gov.uk.

5. Pass your practical test

After passing your theory, you can now book your practical test. The test lasts for around 90 minutes and will assess your driving and safety skills, as well as your ability to load and unload the vehicle you are driving. After passing your test, you can expect to receive your C1 driving licence number in 10 to 15 days – it really is that simple!

It’s not compulsory to undergo set training for either your theory or practical test, however it’s recommended that you get in touch with a qualified trainer prior to your tests if you are lacking confidence or wish to boost your chances of a first-time pass.

Large motorhomes here at Wandahome

You may already have your dream motorhome in mind. Perhaps it’s a supremely spacious A-class model boasting the very best the industry has to offer. If that’s the case, we stock a range of exceptional new motorhomes from leading brands for the upcoming 2023 season. Slovenian motorhoming giants, Adria has a wide range of A-class motorhomes for first-class touring. We have plenty in stock here at Wandahome, with the exquisite 5500kg Adria Supersonic the 4400kg Adria Sonic Supreme, both showcasing the quality of Mercedes-Benz engineering.

We also have larger coachbuilt models such as the 2023 Bailey Autograph, a premium six-berth motorhome, at 4250kg maximum loading weight. What’s more, we stock an extensive range of used motorhomes, with something for everyone, whether you’re after a spacious couple’s getaway or lots of family adventures.

If you’re thinking about the prospect of purchasing a larger motorhome and want to see some for yourself, why not arrange a visit with us today using our online enquiry form.