Which driving-licence category applies to which vehicle?
| Vehicle | Permitted gross weight | Generally relevant licence category |
|---|---|---|
| Small van to large 3.5-tonne van | up to 3,500 kg | B |
| Light truck | over 3,500 up to 7,500 kg | C1 |
| Heavier vehicle | over 3,500 kg where not covered by C1 | C |
What does permitted total mass mean?
Permitted total mass is a legal vehicle figure and is not the same as payload. The vehicle’s own mass, occupants, equipment and cargo must all fit within the applicable limits.
Can I drive a 7.5-tonne truck with category B?
As a general rule, category B alone does not cover a vehicle with a permitted total mass above 3,500 kg. A suitable higher entitlement or an applicable acquired right from an older licence may be required.
What can apply to an old German category 3 licence?
Older German driving entitlements can include acquired rights that were transferred when licences were converted. The exact codes and restrictions on the individual licence must be checked rather than assuming a general entitlement.
- Check the front and back of the current driving licence
- Pay attention to restriction codes and expiry dates
- If anything is unclear, ask the driving-licence authority or a qualified office
- The rental company may impose additional requirements
Which additional rules can the rental company impose?
Providers can require a minimum age, a minimum licence-holding period or a surcharge for young drivers. These contractual rules apply in addition to statutory driving-licence law.
What should holders of foreign licences check?
Recognition can depend on the issuing country, residence status, licence category and any applicable German rules. Check the original licence, any required translation or international permit and the provider’s conditions before booking.
Choose conservatively
Compare neutral vehicle classes
See planning-volume and payload ranges without relying on model names.
Frequently asked questions
Short and clear answers
Does category B cover every van called a Sprinter?+
No. The model name is not decisive. Check the permitted total mass of the specific vehicle.
Can I drive a 7.5-tonne truck with category B?+
Normally not with category B alone. A suitable higher entitlement or applicable acquired right is required.
Are foreign driving licences always accepted by rental companies?+
No. Legal recognition and provider acceptance are separate questions and must both be checked.
Can the rental company require a higher minimum age?+
Yes. Statutory driving entitlement and contractual rental conditions are separate. Providers may set additional age and licence-holding requirements for particular vehicle classes.
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Transparency
Sources
- Section 6 FeV – driving-licence categoriesBundesministerium der Justiz / Bundesamt für Justiz
- Annex 3 FeV – conversion of older licencesBundesministerium der Justiz / Bundesamt für Justiz
- Section 29 FeV – foreign driving licencesBundesministerium der Justiz / Bundesamt für Justiz
- Section 34 StVZO – axle load and gross weightBundesministerium der Justiz / Bundesamt für Justiz
Note: This article provides general information and does not replace individual legal, insurance or professional advice. The cited original sources, vehicle documents, tariff conditions and the specific contract remain authoritative. Editorial standards · Legal notice