Many people across the UK dream of owning a motorhome. While the freedom of the open road and the beautiful vistas on offer can have some serious appeal, a simple driving licence may not be enough to get you on your way. For larger vehicles, you’ll need a specialist C1 licence.
C1 Licensing
C1 licensing will allow you to drive vehicles weighing above 3,500kg (and up to 7,500kg). It’s important to note that a standard driving licence obtained after 1997 only caters to vehicles up to that weight, whereas any awarded before then will have C1 capabilities.
Drivers requesting this licence will need to pass a medical test and an eye test. Those under 44 will need to renew the C1 every five years, whereas older drivers will need to do so every year.
Application and eligibility
Drivers who hope to get a category C1 license will need to be 18 or older, have a standard Category B driving licence and be in receipt of a relevant D4 medical and visual assessment.
Just like with a typical driving licence, you’ll need to apply for a provisional licence first. These can be gotten via a D2 form (available from most post offices or from the DVLA’s website). This, along with the D4 medical form, should be sent off to the DVLA with your current driving licence. Once you have been awarded your provisional, you will be able to start lessons for your C1, just be sure to hire a professional driving instructor (they will need to hold a full CE, C, C1E, or C1 licence that is three years or older).
Once you have undertaken a host of lessons and feel ready to take your test, there are three theory tests that need to be passed (a hazard perception test, a case study and a multiple-choice test). The practical test is likely to cost around £115 and unlike traditional driving tests, it comes in two halves.
C1 licence capabilities
While you may only want a C1 licence to give you the opportunity to drive a motorhome for amazing, affordable getaways, you will actually be skilled enough to drive a host of other vehicles. These include any that weigh up to 7,500kg, such as light lorries, and can cover motorized equipment and tow trailers
Why choose to travel via motorhome instead of booking a traditional holiday
One of the biggest draws to driving a motorhome over going on a traditional holiday is that you can define your own parameters. You’ll have the opportunity to plan your own journey, see sights off the beaten track and potentially avoid swathes of holidaymakers at the same time.
Many people decide to explore the British countryside by vehicle, but having the ability to free yourself from hotels and traditional holiday protocols, you’ll be able to take your time, enjoy the scenery at your own pace and cater to your own wants and needs.
There are plenty of campgrounds where you can meet new people, and motorhomes can give you the opportunity to take your pets along for the ride. As you will have ultimate control over your trip for the entire journey, what’s not to love?
