Theory topic 14 · Düsseldorf.
Topic 14 is the second mandatory topic (§ 4 FahrSchAusbO). It's about the special features of the individual vehicle classes - from solo cars to cars with trailers (B96, BE) right up to the B197 shifting test. Anyone who is safe here knows exactly what their driving license allows.
What you learn.
The most important rules.
Rule 1
Class B entitles you to drive cars with a GVW of up to 3,500 kg and to carry a trailer with a GVW of up to 750 kg. Combinations over 750 kg are also permitted, as long as the total combination remains under 3,500 kg.
Rule 2
B96 is an extension of B. Permitted: cars up to 3,500 kg + trailer over 750 kg, total mass up to 4,250 kg. Training without exam — 7 UE theory, 5 UE practical. Entry as key number 96.
Rule 3
Independent class. Permitted: Cars up to 3,500 kg + trailer over 750 kg, total up to 7,000 kg. Full theory and practical exam required. Minimum age 17 (with B17), otherwise 18.
Rule 4
Since 2021: You can complete the practical test with an automatic car AND receive the 'normal' B driving license without code number 78 after 10 compulsory switching hours + a successful test (15 minutes). Both car types allowed.
Rule 5
Cars with trailers outside of town: 80 km/h on country roads AND motorways. With 'Tempo 100 approval' (trailer meets technical requirements): 100 km/h only on motorways. Badge must be attached to the rear.
Common mistakes.
Error 1
B96 is NOT a separate class - but code number 96, registered in class B. Therefore no separate driver's license application, no practical test; only training + certificate.
Error 2
The decisive factor is the GVW (permissible total mass), NOT the actual weight. The vehicle registration document says F.2; If exceeded, fine + possibly driving without a license.
Error 3
Wrong: B197 allows BOTH car types. Only those who drive in 'pure automatic class' B (key number 78) are limited to automatic. B197 is the universal variant.
Error 4
When loading a trailer: heavy objects over the axle if possible - vertical load (pressure on the coupling ball) must remain within the permissible values (located on the trailer). Too little or too much = unstable driving behavior.
Sample questions.
Question 1
You drive a class B car with a trailer. What is the maximum trailer weight allowed?
AnswerTrailers up to 750 kg GVW at any time; Furthermore, as long as the station wagon remains below 3,500 kg GVW.
For higher trailer weight: B96 (up to 4,250 kg) or BE (up to 7,000 kg).
Question 2
What is the maximum speed limit for cars with a trailer outside of town without a 100 km/h sticker?
Answer80 km/h on country roads AND motorways.
With 100 km/h approval on the trailer: 100 km/h on motorways.
Question 3
What distinguishes B197 from the pure automatic class B (code number 78)?
AnswerAfter passing, B197 allows 10 switching hours + test for BOTH car types - manual and automatic. Class B with 78: automatic only.
B197 has been the future-oriented variant since 2021, especially in view of increasing electromobility.
Connection to practice.
At driving school S.U.V. We train in classes B, B197, BF17, BE and B96. If you choose B197, you will practice the practical test in our automatic car, then 10 compulsory hours in the switch and take a short internal switching test. At BE we practice trailer maneuvers (backing into a gap) at a special training area in Düsseldorf.
FAQ.
If you are afraid of changing gears in practice or want to get to the exam faster. You take the test in automatic mode (more relaxed), but you retain the switch authorization. Surcharge vs. pure automatic: approx. 200-400 €.
Ready to get started?
At driving school S.U.V. In Düsseldorf-Oberbilk you will learn all 14 theoretical topics in an understandable and exam-oriented manner. Mindenerstraße 106 · Mon–Sat · from 5:00 p.m. (Sat 12:00 p.m.) · visit as often as you want.
