B96 Driving Licence in Germany – The “Caravan Licence” (2025 Guide)
What is B96?
B96 is an extension to Category B, recorded on the licence as code 96.
It allows you to drive combinations (Category B car + trailer) with a total permitted mass up to 4.25 t, provided the trailer is over 750 kg. (adac.de, Bußgeldkatalog)
It is valid across the EU and shown on the plastic licence card like any other entitlement. (adac.de)
If your combination exceeds 4.25 t, you need Category BE.
Quick comparison: B vs B96 vs BE
| Licence | Trailer weight | Total combination mass* | Official test? |
|---|---|---|---|
| B | ≤ 750 kg (or > 750 kg if the combo stays ≤ 3.5 t) | ≤ 3.5 t | Yes (within Category B) |
| B96 | > 750 kg | > 3.5 t up to 4.25 t | No, training course only |
| BE | 0.75 – 3.5 t | ≤ 7 t | Full practical test |
*“Combination” = car + trailer based on the permitted maximum mass in the vehicle documents.
Eligibility
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Category B licence | B96 can be added during your B course or after you receive B |
| Minimum age | 18 (or 17 within the BF17 scheme) |
| Eyesight + first aid | if not already submitted with the B application |
Mandatory training (no exam!)
Under Anlage 7a FeV, the course must be at least 7 hours: (adac.de, Bußgeldkatalog)
| Component | Minimum time | Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Theory | 2.5 h | towing basics, load distribution, speed rules |
| Yard manoeuvres | 3.5 h | coupling/uncoupling, straight & angled reversing, emergency braking |
| On-road driving | 1 h | rural/fast roads up to the allowed max mass |
At the end, the instructor issues a participation certificate, which you submit so code 96 is entered on your licence.
How to get code 96 added
Complete the course at an approved driving school and keep the certificate.
Submit the certificate + ID + biometric photo to the licensing authority (fee approx. €35–€45).
You receive a new licence card or a temporary document until the card is ready (often about two weeks).
There is no TÜV/DEKRA test and no exam fees.
Estimated costs (2025)
| Item | Range (€) | Estimated source |
|---|---|---|
| One-day course (theory + practice) | 300 – 500 | (ergo.de) |
| Authority fee (adding code 96) | 35 – 45 | municipal data |
| Photos + copies | 10 – 20 | — |
| Approx. total | 350 – 560 | — |
Many driving schools market “weekend camping/caravan courses” for caravan owners.
FAQ
| Question | Short answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need a theory or practical exam? | No—only the 7-hour course is required. (ergo.de) |
| Can I tow a 2.2 t horse trailer with a 2.0 t car? | Yes, because 4.2 t ≤ 4.25 t. |
| Does B96 replace BE in the EU? | Yes within 4.25 t—otherwise you need BE. |
| How many passengers are allowed? | Same as B: up to 8 passengers in addition to the driver. |
| Can B96 be added while on BF17? | Yes, provided the accompanier also attends the course or is familiar with driving the combination. |
Common mistakes to avoid
Exceeding 4.25 t after loading can lead to fines and may be treated as driving without the correct entitlement.
Rear-heavy loading causes trailer sway—aim for about 60% of the load ahead of the axle and secure it properly.
Forgetting correct trailer plates/registration: the trailer must have its own properly registered plate.
Conclusion
B96 is the fastest, most cost-effective way to gain extra towing capacity for caravans or horse trailers—without the full BE exams. With a one-day course and moderate costs, you can drive EU-wide up to 4.25 t. Always check your real combination weight before every trip, secure the load well, and enjoy travelling across Europe!
Editorial note
The editorial team aims to provide accurate information through extensive research and multiple sources. However, errors may occur or some details may be unconfirmed. Use this as initial guidance and consult the competent authorities for confirmed information.
