Booking decision
Book a rental van: check licence, minimum age and holding period
Before booking, check the required licence, permitted total mass, minimum age, licence-holding period and approved additional drivers.
AI transparency: This article, including its FAQ answers, was created using generative AI. More about our use of AI.
Separate law from contract
Two approvals have to line up
Licence category, restriction codes and the specific vehicle determine whether you are legally entitled to drive it.
Minimum age, licence-holding period, required documents and additional-driver rules can add contractual restrictions.
A valid driving licence does not replace tariff approval, and a bookable vehicle class does not replace the required legal entitlement.
Before booking
Check these points
- 1
check permitted total mass
- 2
inspect categories and codes on the licence
- 3
read minimum age and holding-period rules
- 4
register every driver
Which vans are covered by category B?
The legal mass limit is decisive, not the model or marketing name.
What about heavier vehicles?
A suitable higher entitlement or acquired right is required. Check official rules and the actual vehicle.
Why do provider rules also matter?
A legally valid licence does not override contractual minimum age or holding-period conditions.
What applies to additional drivers?
Every person who may drive should have the required legal entitlement and be authorised under the rental agreement. Additional drivers can be subject to registration, age or licence-holding requirements and possible fees.
Quick comparison
| Check | What is decisive | Not sufficient |
|---|---|---|
| Driving licence | Permitted gross weight | Marketing name such as “Sprinter” |
| Minimum age | Tariff and vehicle class | General provider advertising |
| Licence-holding period | Date and rental condition | Current age alone |
| Additional driver | Registration / approval | Verbal agreement between drivers |
Frequently asked questions
Short answers
Is there one minimum age?+
No. It varies by provider, vehicle class and tariff.
Can a helper drive spontaneously?+
Only if licensed and authorised under the rental agreement.
Can my moving helper drive spontaneously?+
Only if the person has the required driving licence and is authorised as a driver under the specific rental agreement.
External rental-van comparison
Finished planning?
Review the route, vehicle class and cost estimate before opening the CHECK24 rental-van comparison.
Transparency
Sources
- Section 6 FeV – driving-licence categoriesFederal Ministry of Justice / Federal Office of Justice
- Van and truck rental FAQ: minimum age and licence-holding periodADAC Car Rental Germany
Note: This article provides general information. The original sources, specific offer, vehicle documents and rental agreement remain authoritative. Editorial standards · Legal notice