Trailer driving limits relaxed

New rules will allow more drivers to tow, without having to take a specialist test

RELAXATION OF LAWS on towing which could allow many more drivers, particularly younger ones, to tow larger vans for the first time have been welcomed by touring bodies.

The new rules, due to come into force later this year, mean anyone – not just people who passed their test before 1 January 1997 – will be allowed to tow a trailer of up to 3500kg MAM, regardless of how heavy their car is.

Currently, drivers who passed their test after that date but before 18 January 2018 are only allowed to tow a trailer over 750kg MAM as long as it is no heavier than the unladen weight of the towing vehicle, and only up to a combined weight of 3500kg.

Those who gained a licence from 19 January 2013 only have to ensure the combined MAM of trailer and car is no more than 3500kg.

In readiness for the changes – and to create more opportunities for urgently needed HGV drivers to pass their test – the Government has scrapped the car and trailer driving test. Previously, you needed to take this exam to overcome the current restrictions and obtain a B+E category licence.

It has warned, however, that the restrictions will stay in place until the law changes. In the meantime, those who face restrictions but want to tow something heavier will be able to do so, but must have L plates on the front of their car and the back of their van, and be accompanied by someone over 21 who has had a B+E licence for at least three years.

The Caravan and Motorhome Club said the changes would give younger people a broader choice of caravans, and make it easier for all to choose heavier electric and hybrid vehicles.

The DVLA will update records and add the B+E category to your licence next time you apply for a photocard. If you were due to take a test that you booked yourself, the DVSA should have cancelled it and issued a refund.

‘The DVLA will update records and add B+E next time you apply for a photocard’