What license do I need to drive an RV?

To drive a roadsurfer RV, you need a standard class B driving license and must meet minimum age and experience rules, which vary by country. Have more questions? Read the FAQs below for everything you need to know before your road trip.

Renting and Driving in the US & Canada

Yes, you can rent and drive an RV in the US with your valid, regular driver’s license—no special license required.

  • Your license must be current and allow you to drive vehicles up to 3.5 tons.
  • Visiting from abroad? EU/EFTA/UK category B/3 licenses are accepted and also cover campers over 3.5 tons in North America. Canadian class 5 licenses from Québec, Labrador and Newfoundland only cover vehicles up to 4,500 kg—the Family Freedom requires class 3

No, a standard driver’s license is all you need to drive a camper van or RV under 3.5 tons.

  • A commercial license is not required for roadsurfer vehicles.

Yes, we accept official temporary or provisional licenses if your regular license is lost or expired.

  • Please bring all supporting documents you received with your temporary license.

Yes, additional drivers are allowed as long as they meet the same license requirements as the main renter.

  • All drivers must show a valid license at pick-up.

Not if your driver’s license was issued in the USA, Canada, or the EU/EFTA/UK (category B/3)—no International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

  • Licenses issued outside the USA, Canada, or the EU/EFTA/UK require an IDP together with the national license
  • We still recommend an IDP for EU/EFTA licenses in case you need to prove your driving entitlement during a police or vehicle check
  • Some licenses (e.g. from Türkiye) already include the international permit on the back—no separate IDP needed
  • Apply with your local authorities well before pick-up, as processing can take several weeks
  • These rules apply to every additional registered driver
  • See the full driver’s license requirements before your trip

Taking Your US License Abroad

You can rent and drive an RV in most European countries with your valid US driver’s license, but you’ll usually need an International Driving Permit (IDP) as well.

  • The IDP acts as an official translation and must be shown together with your US license.
  • US travelers can generally drive in EU/EEA countries, Monaco, and several neighboring countries, but requirements vary by destination.
  • Some regions may require additional documentation or license exchange depending on local laws.
  • See the full international driver’s license requirements before your trip.

Yes, most European countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your US driver’s license.

  • The IDP makes it easy for local authorities to recognize your license if it’s not in their language.
  • You can get an IDP through AAA or AATA before your trip.
  • Exceptions: a special rule applies to US military personnel stationed in Germany, and valid Ukrainian licenses covered by the EU temporary protection scheme are accepted without an IDP

Have more questions?

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