With the class BE licence you extend your car licence with the right to tow trailers with a permissible total weight of more than 750 kg. The requirement is a valid class B driving licence.
What class BE training includes
Practical training only
Since you already hold class B, there is no theory test at all. The focus is on hitching up, manoeuvring, reversing and safety checks on the trailer.
Practical test
5 special drives are mandatory (3 on country roads, 1 on the motorway, 1 at night), plus at least 2 practice lessons. After that comes the practical test with TÜV. We register you as soon as you are ready for the test.
With class BE you may tow trailers with a permissible total weight of up to 3,500 kg.
Who needs class BE?
01
Caravans & camping
For campers and holidaymakers who want to travel with a caravan weighing more than 750 kg in total.
- Safe manoeuvring and driving on the motorway and on narrow campsite roads.
02
Horse trailers
For riders, breeders and farmers who transport horses or other animals in a heavy trailer.
- Calm, smooth driving when transporting live animals.
03
Business use
Tradespeople, gardeners and other businesses that transport heavy equipment, machinery or materials with a trailer.
- Required for business transport with a total weight of more than 750 kg.
Frequently asked questions about class BE
No. Since you must already hold class B for class BE, there is no theory test at all. You only take a practical test with TÜV.
The law requires 5 special drives: 3 on country roads, 1 on the motorway and 1 at night. In addition, you need at least 2 practice lessons in which you train hitching up, manoeuvring and reversing. How many further practice lessons make sense depends on your previous experience. Your instructor decides together with you when you are confident enough for the test.
With class BE you may tow trailers with a permissible total weight of up to 3,500 kg. The vehicle combination (towing vehicle up to 3,500 kg plus trailer up to 3,500 kg) may weigh up to 7,000 kg. Heavier combinations would require a higher licence class.
With class B you can already tow trailers up to 750 kg. The code B96 allows trailers up to a permissible total weight of the combination of 4,250 kg and is obtained through a short training session (no test needed). Class BE allows more weight and requires a practical test.
The total cost is made up of driving lessons and the test fee. As you do not take a theory test, class BE is considerably cheaper than a complete driving licence. Give us a call for an exact overview of the costs.