Towing a caravan or trailer is a great way to enjoy the open road, but before diving in, it's important to check you're licence entitlements. The type of vehicle you can tow depends on your driving licence and when you received it. Below is a breakdown of the essential rules, weight limits, and equipment requirements.
What Caravan Can you Tow on your Licence?
1. Licences Issued Before 1 January 1997:
If you obtained your licence before 1 January 1997, you’re generally allowed to tow a combined vehicle and trailer weight of up to 8,250kg Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM).
You can also drive a minibus with a trailer over 750kg MAM.
To confirm your entitlement, you can view your driving licence information on the DVLA website.
2. Licences Issued from 1 January 1997:
If you passed your driving test on or after 1 January 1997, you’re allowed to tow trailers up to 3,500kg MAM. This is classified as a category BE vehicle.
If category BE isn’t printed on your current physical driving licence, it will be added automatically the next time you renew it.
To understand what you’re allowed to drive, it’s important to check your driving licence details using the Gov.uk licence checker.
Training for Safe Towing
It’s highly recommended to get proper training for towing a caravan or trailer. Training ensures you understand how to handle larger loads, brake safely, and control your vehicle effectively in various conditions. Various providers offer training, including:
National Register of LGV Instructors
Safe Towing Scheme
Skills for Logistics
Check with these organisations for the specific training they offer and the associated costs.
Towing Heavier Combinations
If you need to tow combinations that exceed the weight allowed by your current licence, you’ll need to upgrade to a medium-sized lorry and trailer combination (category C1+E). To do this, you’ll need to:
Apply for a provisional C1+E licence.
Pass the lorry theory test.
Pass the C1+E driving test.
You may also need to take extra Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) tests if driving is your primary occupation. Once qualified, you’ll be allowed to tow vehicles and trailers with a combined weight of up to 12,000 kg MAM.
Towing Weight and Size Limits
When towing, it’s crucial to be aware of both your car's towing capacity and legal trailer size limits.
Maximum towing width: The trailer’s width cannot exceed 2.55 meters.
Maximum towing length: The trailer length can be up to 7 meters if your vehicle’s MAM is less than 3,500 kg. For larger vehicles, the trailer can be up to 12 meters long.
Ensure you check the Gross Train Weight (GTW) listed in your vehicle’s handbook or on the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate to verify the total weight of your fully-loaded car and trailer. If the VIN plate does not include a GTW, your car is not legally suitable for towing.
Essential Towing Equipment and Safety Checks
Your towing equipment must meet certain safety standards. Neglecting to use proper equipment could result in fines, penalty points, or even a driving ban.
Tow bars: Tow bars must be type-approved to ensure they comply with EU regulations. The tow bar should include an approval number and details of the cars it's approved for. If your car was first registered before 1 August 1998, you don’t need a type-approved tow bar.
Towing mirrors: It’s a legal requirement to have a clear view of the road behind your trailer. If your trailer or caravan is wider than your car, you must fit appropriate towing mirrors. Failing to do so could result in a fine of up to £1,000 and three penalty points on your licence.
Trailer brakes: Trailers weighing over 750kg when loaded must have a functional braking system. Smaller trailers may also have brakes, but this is optional. You should regularly check the condition of your brakes, and use a breakaway cable in case the trailer becomes detached from your vehicle.
Number plates: The trailer must display the same number plate as the towing vehicle. If you’re towing multiple trailers, the rear trailer must show the number plate.
Towing American Caravans or Trailers in the UK
If you’re towing an American-made caravan or trailer in the UK, it’s important to verify that it meets European safety standards. American trailers may not comply with UK regulations, particularly in terms of braking and coupling systems. Before using one, confirm that it meets legal requirements, which you can check through the Gov.uk guidance.
Final Thoughts: Stay Safe and Legal
Towing a trailer or caravan can be an enjoyable experience, but ensuring you’re compliant with UK regulations is essential for your safety and the safety of others on the road. Always check your vehicle’s weight limits and adhere to the necessary requirements for your driving licence.
For the most up-to-date information and to check your personal driving licence entitlements, visit the official Gov.uk website.
Happy caravanning, and stay safe on the road!
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