Choose a city and start directly with the appropriate pre-selection for the BE driving license class.

Class BE is the important trailer extension to class B. It allows significantly heavier trailers than the normal car driving license. Here you will find all relevant information about requirements, typical training duration, exam procedures and costs in Germany as well as the option to compare driving schools for BE on VEHI.

BE is very much about practical training with teams. Some driving schools have modern trailer fleets and good practice areas, others less so. A comparison will help you choose schools with suitable facilities, clear prices and sensible training planning for class BE.

Class BE is an extension of Class B and is aimed at drivers who want to tow larger trailers. While class B is limited in terms of trailer weight, BE allows combinations with a significantly heavier trailer to be driven.

At its core, BE means:

• Class B towing vehicle
• Trailers with a permissible total mass of up to 3,500 kg
• This means a significantly wider range of applications compared to pure Class B

BE is particularly useful if the trailer is regularly heavily loaded or if the combination consists of a larger towing vehicle plus a heavy trailer.

Since BE is based on Class B, prior ownership or parallel acquisition of Class B is required. The minimum age is therefore based on the B rules. In practice, many driving students only complete BE after a few years of driving experience when a specific need arises, for example for caravanning or professional transport.

Training can often begin at short notice if the documents are complete and the driving school has suitable vehicles. Waiting times are possible, especially when demand is high (spring/summer). Early scheduling is worth it.

With class BE you can drive a combination of a B-approved towing vehicle and a heavy trailer. The decisive factor is the permissible total mass of the vehicles, not just the current loading weight.

Typical examples:

• Car with large caravan
• SUV with horse trailer
• Transporter with machine trailer
• Towing vehicle with boat trailer

BE is particularly relevant for constellations that would no longer be permitted with class B due to the vehicle limitation. Anyone who frequently transports loads gains both legal security and practical freedom.

The following requirements typically apply to BE:

• existing or parallel class B
• Minimum age according to B regulation
• Registration at a driving school with BE training
• valid identification documents
• If necessary, official application documents depending on the driving license office

A new first aid course or eye test is not always necessary with BE, as BE is an extension. Which documents are specifically required depends on the individual case and the authority.

In contrast to class B, the focus at BE is on practice with the team. Important learning objectives are:

• Vehicle inspection and technical safety checks
• Maneuvering and reversing with a trailer
• Cornering behavior and swinging out
• Braking distance, load distribution and driving stability
• safe behavior on country roads and motorways

The training is strongly based on real driving situations. Good driving schools not only train you to pass, but also how to handle safely under time pressure, in tight spaces and in confusing traffic situations.

Theory test As a rule, BE does not require an independent theory test as is the case with a completely new class. The focus is on practical qualifications. Depending on the training concept, theoretical content is still taught in class, especially on loads, safety and team dynamics.

Practical exam The practical test is the central component. It typically includes:

• vehicle-related security checks
• Maneuvering and reversing maneuvers
• Driving in real traffic with a trailer
• situation-appropriate, defensive and forward-looking behavior

Not only technology is assessed, but also the ability to recognize risks early and to lead the team stably.

The costs for BE depend on the region, driving school and the length of practice required. Those who already have a lot of trailer experience often need fewer driving lessons. Additional training sessions can be useful for beginners.

Typical cost points:

• Basic amount / administration
• Driving lessons with a team
• Introduction to the practical exam
• Examination fees
• If necessary, additional practice hours if you are unsure

As a rough guideline, total costs in the range of around 800 to 1,800 euros are often given. In expensive regions or with extensive preparation, the amount may be higher.

Demarcation is particularly important in the trailer area:

• B: limited trailer rule, often sufficient for light combinations.
• B96: Extension for trailers up to 4,250 kg, without classic BE testing structure.
• BE: Trailers up to 3,500 kg - the strongest option in the B environment.

If you only use a light trailer occasionally, you can often get by with B. For regular heavy trailers, BE is usually the more robust and safer solution in the long term.

Class BE makes sense for everyone who wants to drive heavy trailers regularly or on a planned basis - privately or professionally. It creates legal certainty, significantly expands the area of ​​application and improves driving safety in trailer operations.

To ensure that the training really fits, you should choose driving schools not only based on price, but also based on practical concept and support. On VEHI you can compare driving schools for class BE and find the offer that suits your needs.