B licence vs C licence
B is the car licence: up to 3,500 kg, from age 18. C is professional, for trucks over 3,500 kg, and requires holding B first, age 21+, a specific exam and a reinforced medical exam. B is the entry; C is the next step if you want to work in goods transport.
| Feature | BB Licence - Car | CC Licence - Truck |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum age | 18 years | 21 years |
| Authorised vehicles | Passenger vehicles up to 3,500 kg and up to 8 passengers besides the driver. | Goods vehicles over 3,500 kg. |
| Exam questions | 30 | 20 |
| Exam time | 30 min | 20 min |
| Max errors | 3 | 2 |
| Options per question | 3 | 3 |
Requirements and tests: B vs C
The C requires a previous B and a standard minimum age of 21 (from 18 with ordinary CAP). The exam changes from the general to the specific theory test, and validity drops from 10 to 5 years under 65.
| Requirement | B | C |
|---|---|---|
| Previous licence | No previous licence is required. | You need a valid B licence. |
| Theory | General | Specific |
| Practical | Closed track and road | Closed track and road |
| Fee | 94,05 € (2.1) | 94,05 € (2.1) |
| Validity (under 65 / from 65) | 10 / 5 years | 5 / 3 years |
| Age exceptions | — | From age 18 with the ordinary initial CAP professional qualification. |
Data from RD 818/2009 and the DGT website, reviewed on 13 October 2026. Independent site, not affiliated with the DGT.
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Prefer to read first? Question bank: B questions · C questions
B Licence - Car
Passenger cars and light vehicles up to 3,500 kg.
See syllabus & testC Licence - Truck
Goods vehicles over 3,500 kg.
See syllabus & testFrequently asked questions
What is the minimum age for each?
B licence: age 18. C licence: age 21.
How is the DGT theory exam in each case?
B: 30 questions, 30 minutes, max 3 errors. C: 20 questions, 20 minutes, max 2 errors.
What vehicles can I drive with each licence?
B: Passenger vehicles up to 3,500 kg and up to 8 passengers besides the driver. C: Goods vehicles over 3,500 kg.
Which one should I get first?
If by age you can only access the B (minimum age 18), start there and consider stepping up to the C when you reach 21. If you already have the age for both, going straight to the C is usually more cost-effective (one training, one exam, one fee) — the B loses relative value if the C covers every vehicle you're interested in.
What is required for the C if I already hold the B?
For the C: You need a valid B licence. Tests: Specific theory test. Practical closed-track and road tests. A valid C1 licence exempts you from the specific theory test. For the B: No previous licence is required. Check current conditions on the DGT website before enrolling.
What does the fee cost and how long is each licence valid?
Fee 2.1 for the B: EUR 94.05 covering two attempts. Fee 2.1 for the C: EUR 94.05 covering two attempts. Validity under 65: B, 10 years; C, 5 years. It may be shortened for medical reasons.