Are you new to the world of motorhomes or just curious about it? How to drive a motorhome? What are the rules to follow ? What type of licence do you need?
Little reminder: what is a motorhome?
A motorhome is « a motor vehicle with interior fittings designed to be used as a dwelling, generally used for traveling or on holidays.» Unlike the caravan, the motorhome has its own motor.
On this home on wheels, travelers can enjoy from at least a bed, a kitchen area and most often a bathroom. Thanks to the beds and numerous facilities available, this type of vehicle is fully equipped for living, eating and sleeping.
Basic rules to drive a motorhome: traffic and parking
The traffic
Whether you are in a motorhome or in a car, there are few basic rules to follow, particularly in terms of traffic and parking. If you do not comply with these standards, it may result in more or less severe penalties.
Within the European Union, each country has its own highway code. In order to properly prepare for your travel, be sure to check your vehicle condition, have a look on your interior fittings, drive quietly and take regular breaks.
Parking VS camping
Even though a motorhome can park in the same pitches as a car, it cannot « make camping ».
So, motorhomes can stop in a parking lot. If your vehicle is parked correctly and you have not « take out » anything (chocks, awning, chairs and tables), you are perfectly in your right and have absolutely nothing to fear about.
However, if you decide to « take out » your equipment and accessories, the Highway Code and the Town Planning Code consider this act to be « camping »., which is totally prohibited outside the places provided for this purpose, so you may have a fine.
Before traveling: what license is required to drive a motorhome?
Driving with a B license
Do not worry, the classic car license (license B) is sufficient to drive a motorhome under 3.5T. Note that most motorhome models have an authorized loaded weight less than 3.5T, which leaves you a lot of choice!
The case of heavy motorhomes
You will need a specific license to drive a heavy vehicle. Indeed, for motorhomes over 3.5 tonnes, the C1 license is required. It allows you to drive a vehicle such as a motorhome with a maximum weight of 7.5T.
On the road: how to drive a motorhome abroad?
Necessary documents in Europe and outside Europe
- A driving license (in Europe, a valid UK driving license is sufficient. Outside the European Union, some countries require an international driving permits in addition to the English license.)
- The international insurance card or green card
- The registration certificate (old registration certificate)
- A technical control (revision)
- A European accident report form
- Your valid national identity card and/or passport with VISA depending on the destination
- Your European health insurance card (EHIC) or international insurance
How to drive a motorhome: respect the signs
Each European state has its own highway code. It is essential to respect the rules of the country in which you are traveling. Most countries use the same road signs symbolizing danger, priority, obligation, prohibition, information, direction and indication.
In most countries of the European Union, people are driving on the right side. But, be careful, it is done on the left in some states such as Cyprus, Ireland, Malta and the United Kingdom. Authorized speeds vary by country and type of road ranging from 30 to 140 km/h. Remember that wearing a seat belt is mandatory in the front and rear of the vehicle.
On the same topic, you can also read our other blog posts:« 5 tips to prepare your trip by motorhome », « the most used tools to travel by motorhome ».
Enjoy your motorhome travel with the CaraMaps application!