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Does the B+E category on my licence change when I reach 70 years old?

I am 71 years of age and have renewed my driving license. I have category B+E on my license dating from 1975, which the DVLA says means I can drive a vehicle up to a MAM of 3500 kg, towing ANY size of trailer. That is, if I tow a caravan with a car, the (car + caravan) weight does not have to be below 3500 kg, as it would if my BE category was dated after 19 Jan 2013. What I cannot find is – does this alter after 70 years of age? I’m pretty sure that up to 70, I had a C1 category on my license, which I automatically lost at age 70. I’m just wondering if there is any change at age 70 to the (car + caravan) weight limit – i.e. am I now restricted to (car + caravan) having to be below 3500 kg, or not?

Asked on 11 August 2024 by Dr David Cross

Answered by Craig Cheetham
No, there is no change. Drivers holding a category B+E licence before their licence expired at age 70 can continue to drive a vehicle weighing up to 3.5 tonnes with a trailer up to a maximum combination weight limit of 8.25 tonnes, once their licence is renewed. This will remain the same for each subsequent driving licence renewal, assuming you meet the medical requirements to continue driving.
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