Towing Laws
Jan 31, 2012
A standard UK driving licence might not enable the holder to tow a caravan, depending on when the driving test was passed. Newer drivers may need to take an additional test in order to tow a caravan or trailer behind their vehicle. Towing (anything) on a provisional licence is strictly forbidden.
A change of law on 1st January 1997, meant that those who passed their driving test after this date are no longer permitted to tow a caravan or certain trailers without taking a further car and trailer test (known as category B+E). The new restrictions refer to the weight or Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM).
This means that with category B on your licence you are permitted to drive "motor vehicles with a MAM not exceeding 3500kg having not more than eight passenger seats with a trailer up to 750kg. Combinations of towing vehicles in category B and a trailer, where the MAM of the combination does not exceed 3500kg and the MAM of the trailer does not exceed the unladen mass of the towing vehicle" (www.direct.gov.uk)
Those who passed their test before 1st January 1997 can still tow a caravan or trailer providing the combination does not exceed 8.25 tonnes. Remember not to overload your caravan.
Before you tow - Check Your Insurance Policy
Make sure that you are covered by your insurance policy. Most policies do cover your third party liabilities when towing but it is your responsibility to make sure that this is the case. If you're in any doubt about your cover then don't go out on the road with your trailer or caravan until you've spoken to your insurance company.
For more information and advice visit the direct.gov website or www.towsafe.co.uk
