NEW Towing Laws For The United Kingdom

New UK Towing Laws

As of 16th December 2021 UK towing laws changed, under these new laws drivers who passed their driving test from January 1997 are now allowed to tow trailers up to 3,500kg MAM.

The DVLA should automatically update your driving licence record to show that you are now allowed to tow trailers over 750kg and  up to 3,500kg, This means category BE will be added to your driving licence when you get a new photocard driving licence.

Drivers who passed their driving test before 1st January 1997 will not be affected by the change in uk towing laws.

Before towing you should always check you tow vehicles handbook to find out the GTW (Gross Train Weight). This is the total allowable weight of the vehicle plus the trailer plus the load. You should also check the rated weight of the trailer to ensure the trailer is capable of towing the load you wish to tow. The rated weight of the trailer can be found on the VIN plate, this will show the gross weight of the trailer meaning the total weight of the load including the weight of the trailer. For example if the trailer is rated to 3,500kg and the trailer itself weighs 1000kg you will be able to put 2,500kg on the trailer.

New UK Towing laws before 16th December 2021

Valid driving licence issued after 1 January 1997:

If you passed your car driving test on or after 1 January 1997 you can:

  • Drive a car or van up to 3,500kg maximum authorised mass (MAM) towing a trailer of up to 750kg MAM
  • Tow a trailer over 750kg MAM as long as the combined MAM of the trailer and towing vehicle is no more than 3,500kg

Valid Driving Licence issued before 1 January 1997:

If you passed your car driving test before 1 January 1997 you are usually allowed to drive a vehicle and trailer combination up to 8,250kg MAM. View your driving licence information to check.

You’re also allowed to drive a minibus with a trailer over 750kg MAM, (check on any tests required dependent on usage etc) with a valid driving licence.

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