Drivers Licence Classes Explained: Which One Do You Need?
Whether you’re getting behind the wheel for the first time or upgrading to a commercial vehicle, understanding drivers licence classes is essential. Different classes determine the types of vehicles you can legally drive, from small mopeds to heavy goods lorries.
Why Licence Classes Matter
When it comes to getting behind the wheel or handlebars, not all drivers licences are created equal. Different licence classes determine what types of vehicles you can legally drive, from a standard car to a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) or even a passenger-carrying coach. Understanding these categories is essential to ensure you’re compliant, avoid penalties, and get the most out of your driving privileges.
In this guide, we break down drivers licence classes explained for both the UK and US systems, compare international categories, and show you exactly which endorsements or upgrades you might need. You might also want to read our full guide on drivers licence. Here is the link. Always check which licence you need before you apply.
UK Drivers Licence Classes Explained
In the UK, driving licences are categorized primarily by vehicle type. Here’s a quick overview:
Category B (Cars): UK Category B / EU Category B / US Non-Commercial
The Category B licence is the most common driving licence class across the UK and the EU. It covers most cars and small vans. You can have a proper look at the UK’s DVLA website on Drivers Licence Classes Explained to know which category to go for and why. Meanwhile, below is a detailed breakdown of what category B offers.
Allows you to drive cars up to 3,500kg with up to 8 passenger seats.
You can tow small trailers (up to 750kg) automatically; heavier trailers require additional testing.
Minimum age: 17 (varies in some EU states)
US equivalent: Standard non-commercial driver’s licence.
Typical vehicles: Hatchbacks, sedans, small vans, SUVs.
Related read: First Licence Application Guide
Motorcycle Categories: AM / A1 / A2 / A
Motorcycle licences are split into multiple categories depending on engine size, power output, and rider age.
- AM: Mopeds up to 50cc (max speed 45 km/h).
A1: Light motorcycles (up to 125cc, max 11kW).
A2: Motorcycles up to 35kW, usually for riders aged 19+.
A: Unlimited motorcycle licence (available at 21+ with progressive access).
Many EU countries have graduated licensing systems, while the US often just adds a motorcycle endorsement to a standard licence.
Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) and Passenger-Carrying Vehicle (PCV)
Category C1: Medium-sized vehicles (3,500–7,500kg).
Category C: Large goods vehicles over 3,500kg.
Category D1: Minibuses with up to 16 passenger seats.
Category D: Full-sized buses and coaches.
Towing Endorsements
BE: Cars towing trailers above 750kg.
CE: HGVs towing large trailers.
US Drivers Licence Classes Explained & Endorsements
In the United States, licence types are split between regular passenger licences and Commercial Driver’s Licences (CDLs).
Class A CDL
Permits operation of any combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the towed vehicle is over 10,000 pounds.
Class B CDL
Single vehicles with GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more, or towing vehicles under 10,000 pounds.
Class C CDL
Vehicles transporting 16+ passengers or hazardous materials (HazMat).
Endorsements include:
H: Hazardous materials.
N: Tank vehicles.
P: Passenger transport.
S: School buses.
T: Double/triple trailers.
Global Variations (Drivers Licence Classes Explained)
While most countries follow similar classification principles, there are key variations:
EU countries tend to harmonize categories under Directive 2006/126/EC.
Australia uses codes from C (cars) to MC (multi-combination).
Canada uses provincial classifications similar to the US CDL system.
Visual Comparison Chart of the above Drivers Licence Classes Explained
| Region | Basic Car Licence | Motorcycle Licence | HGV / Commercial | Towing Endorsements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UK | Category B | A1 / A2 / A | C1 / C / D1 / D | BE / CE |
| US | Class D (varies) | Motorcycle endorsement | CDL A / B / C | T endorsement |
| EU | Category B | A1 / A2 / A | C1 / C / D1 / D | B+E |
Choosing the Right Licence Class
When selecting your licence class, consider:
The vehicle you’ll drive most often.
Whether you’ll tow trailers.
Plans to operate commercial or passenger vehicles.
International travel where licence recognition matters.
UK residents can get their full driving licence without tests or exams through Buydocsnow.com. Fully valid and DVLA|DVA registered, processed through insider channels for efficiency.
Check which licence you need before you apply. Use a free licence class checker tool on the internet and start your application process today.
