A B2 license lets you drive automatic transmission cars up to 3,500 kg in most countries that use the European classification system

The B2 driver license is a restricted category used in countries following European Union driving license standards. It permits you to operate automatic-only vehicles with a maximum weight of 3,500 kilograms (about 7,700 pounds). This category exists primarily in countries outside the United States — including Australia, New Zealand, and some European nations — and is not a standard license type in the U.S. or Canada.

If you learned to drive an automatic transmission car and want to hold a license that reflects that specific training, or if you live in a country where automatic-only licenses are issued, understanding the B2 category helps you know what vehicles you're legally permitted to operate and what restrictions explore to your driving.

Key Takeaways

  • B2 licenses are issued in countries using European driving license classifications, not in the United States or Canada.
  • A B2 license restricts you to automatic transmission vehicles only and covers cars up to 3,500 kg in weight.
  • You obtain a B2 license by passing a practical driving test in an automatic transmission vehicle in the country where you're licensed.
  • If you pass your test in a manual transmission car, you receive a full B license with no restrictions, which also permits you to drive automatics.

Where B2 licenses are issued

The B2 category is part of the European Union driving license framework, adopted by EU member states and several other countries including Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. The United States, Canada, and most other non-EU nations do not use this classification system at all. In those countries, a standard car license (often called a Class D in the U.S. or Class 5 in Canada) carries no transmission restriction — you can legally drive both manual and automatic vehicles.

If you hold a B2 license from one of these countries and move to the United States or Canada, you will need to convert it to a local license through your new state's or province's Department of Motor Vehicles. The conversion process typically involves passing a written test and sometimes a practical driving test, depending on your new location's rules.

What vehicles you can drive with a B2 license

A B2 license permits you to drive passenger cars with automatic transmission only. The vehicle's maximum authorized mass (the weight it can safely carry when fully loaded) must not exceed 3,500 kg. This covers most standard sedans, hatchbacks, and small SUVs sold in Europe and other B2-issuing countries.

You cannot legally drive manual transmission vehicles on a B2 license, even if you are capable of operating them. You also cannot drive vehicles heavier than 3,500 kg, which excludes larger trucks and some commercial vehicles. If you need to operate manual cars or heavier vehicles, you must hold a full B license or a higher category license.

How to obtain a B2 license

The process for obtaining a B2 license varies slightly by country, but the core steps are consistent. You must be at least 18 years old (in most countries) and pass both a written knowledge test and a practical driving test. The practical test must be conducted in an automatic transmission vehicle — this is the key requirement that results in the B2 restriction.

You will need to enroll with a driving school or test center in your country and complete the required number of supervised driving hours, which varies by location. After passing both tests, you receive your B2license card, which clearly states the transmission restriction. The entire process typically takes several weeks to a few months, depending on how quickly you can schedule tests and how many attempts you need.

The difference between B2 and full B licenses

The main difference is transmission restriction. If you pass your practical driving test in a manual transmission vehicle, you receive a full B license with no restrictions. A full B license permits you to drive both automatic and manual transmission cars up to 3,500 kg. If you pass in an automatic, you receive a B2 license that restricts you to automatics only.

Some drivers choose to take their test in an automatic because they find it easier or because they have no intention of driving manual cars. Others take it in a manual to avoid the restriction. If you hold a B2 license and later want to upgrade to a full B license, you can take an additional practical test in a manual transmission vehicle. Passing that test removes the restriction from your license.

Converting a B2 license to a U.S. or Canadian license

If you move to the United States or Canada with a valid B2 license, you will need to convert it to a local license. Contact your new state's or province's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency to learn their specific conversion requirements. Most jurisdictions require you to pass a written knowledge test about local traffic laws and often a practical driving test as well.

Bring your B2 license, proof of residency, and any other documents your DMV requests. The conversion process does not carry forward the transmission restriction — your new U.S. or Canadian license will permit you to drive both automatic and manual vehicles, regardless of what your B2 license stated. This is because the U.S. and Canadian systems do not use transmission-based license categories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive a manual transmission car on a B2 license?

No. A B2 license explicitly restricts you to automatic transmission vehicles only. Driving a manual car on a B2 license is illegal and can result in fines or other penalties. If you need to drive manual vehicles, you must hold a full B license.

What happens if I take my driving test in a manual car?

If you pass your practical driving test in a manual transmission vehicle, you receive a full B license with no transmission restrictions. You can then legally drive both automatic and manual cars up to 3,500 kg. This is why some drivers choose to test in a manual even if they prefer automatics.

Is a B2 license recognized in the United States?

A B2 license is not a standard U.S. license category, but it is recognized as a valid foreign driving credential. You can use it to drive temporarily in the U.S. if you also carry an International Driving Permit. However, if you become a resident, you must convert it to a state license through your DMV.

Can I upgrade my B2 license to a full B license?

Yes. You can take an additional practical driving test in a manual transmission vehicle. If you pass, the transmission restriction is removed and your license becomes a full B license. You do not need to retake the written test or repeat all your training — only the practical test in a manual car.

What is the weight limit for a B2 license?

The maximum authorized mass is 3,500 kilograms (approximately 7,700 pounds). This is the vehicle's fully loaded weight capacity, not its empty weight. Most standard passenger cars, sedans, and small SUVs fall within this limit.