EU driving license regulations: New weight limits and class overviews

Driving license regulations in Europe are undergoing changes following decisions by the European Parliament. Under new guidelines, Class B license holders may eventually be permitted to drive vehicles with a total weight of up to 4.25 tonnes after completing specific training or examinations. EU member states have three years to incorporate these rules into national law, with an additional year for practical implementation.

Currently, a standard Class B license allows for driving vehicles with a maximum total mass of 3.5 tonnes, carrying up to eight people. This includes towing light, unbraked trailers up to 750 kg, or heavier trailers provided the combined weight of the car and trailer does not exceed 3.5 tonnes.

For heavier transport, the C1E license provides expanded capabilities. It allows drivers to operate Class C1 vehicles with trailers exceeding 750 kg, or Class B vehicles with trailers exceeding 3,500 kg, provided the total combined mass of the vehicle and trailer does not exceed 12,000 kg. Other categories, such as motorcycle licenses (AM, A1, A2, A), remain distinct and are not automatically included in these vehicle weight expansions.