Requirements
B96 licence: towing limits and how to obtain it
Code 96 extends B to combinations over 3,500 kg and up to 4,250 kg authorised maximum mass after a practical test.
A B licence with code 96 permits category B combinations with a trailer over 750 kg when the combined authorised maximum mass exceeds 3,500 kg but does not exceed 4,250 kg. It requires a specific practical test; it is not a new ordinary theory exam.
When code 96 is needed
A B licence permits towing within the applicable limits. If the trailer is over 750 kg and the sum of the authorised maximum masses of car and trailer exceeds 3,500 kg but stays at or below 4,250 kg, the B96 extension is required. The calculation uses the authorised maximum masses on the documents, not the actual load on a particular day. For example, a car with an authorised mass of 2,300 kg and a trailer rated at 1,600 kg make a 3,900 kg combination: B alone is insufficient, while code 96 may apply if all other conditions are met.
If the combination exceeds 4,250 kg, B96 is not enough and BE may be required, depending on masses and configuration. Also check the car’s towing capacity, permitted nose weight, towbar limits and conditions in the documents. A licence allowing a combination does not authorise exceeding the vehicle’s technical limits. A weighbridge can measure actual mass, but it does not change the authorised maximum mass used to determine the licence category.
Practical test and route choice
To obtain code 96, you take a practical test with a suitable vehicle combination, covering the required trailer operations. MIT describes the test vehicles and conditions; a driving school can confirm which combination it provides. Do not assume that holding B or having experience with a caravan automatically grants the extension. Before booking, ask which authorised masses apply to the car and trailer used for the test.
Theory helps you understand mass, loads and traffic rules, but the extension test is practical. Learn with an instructor how to couple and check the combination, judge space and perform manoeuvres. If your own combination exceeds B96 limits, ask about BE instead of trying to compensate by using a lighter vehicle on test day. Read both vehicles’ documents before deciding: authorised maximum mass, towing capacity and actual mass are different figures.
Quiz Patente Ufficiale helps review theory through chapters, quizzes, explanations, mistake review and statistics, while the extension requires a practical test.
Frequently asked questions
Is B96 enough for any caravan?
No. It depends on the combined authorised maximum masses and the car’s technical limits. Above 4,250 kg, BE may be required.
Do I have to retake theory for B96?
The extension is obtained through a specific practical test. Confirm any conditions tied to your licence with MIT or the licensing office.