Understanding Towing Licenses and Regulations

When it comes to towing trailers or caravans, it's essential to understand the different types of licenses you may need and the rules regarding the Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) of vehicles and trailers. This ensures that you are towing safely and legally.

Category B License

A Category B license allows you to drive vehicles with a MAM of up to 3,500 kilograms (kgs) and up to eight passenger seats. When towing a trailer, the weight limits vary depending on the combination of the vehicle and trailer:

• Trailer under 750 kg MAM: You may tow a trailer with a MAM of up to 750 kgs, as long as the total MAM of the vehicle and trailer together does not exceed 4,250 kgs.
• Trailer over 750 kg MAM: You can tow a trailer over 750 kgs MAM, provided the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer does not exceed 3,500 kgs.

It's important to note that vehicle manufacturers typically recommend the maximum trailer weight suitable for their vehicle. These details can usually be found in the vehicle’s handbook or by contacting your car dealership.

Towing a Broken-Down Vehicle
An exception allows anyone holding a Category B license to tow a broken-down vehicle, as long as it does not pose a danger or obstruction to other road users.

Category B+E License

The Category B+E license extends the towing entitlement of a Category B license holder, allowing the towing of trailers over 750 kg MAM, with the total combined weight not exceeding 7,000 kgs MAM. However, if you obtained your Category B license on or after 1 January 1997, you must pass a practical test to gain Category B+E entitlement.

For Drivers Who Took Their Test Before 19 January 2013
If you passed your Category B+E test before 19 January 2013 (in the UK), you will retain your entitlement to tow trailers heavier than 3,500 kg MAM, provided you comply with construction and use regulations.

Towing Caravans

Caravanning guidelines typically suggest that the laden weight of your caravan should not exceed 85% of the unladen weight of your car. This recommendation is intended to ensure better towing stability, although it is not a legal requirement.

If you hold the appropriate license, you can tow heavier caravans, but it’s always important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the maximum weight of the trailer your vehicle is designed to tow. This information can typically be found in your vehicle’s handbook or by contacting the dealership.

Towing Safety and Legal Information

When towing, the rules regarding construction and use must always be followed to ensure safety. The legal weight limits are designed to protect both the driver and other road users. If you're ever unsure about how much weight your vehicle can legally tow or if your trailer complies with safety regulations, you can contact the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) for assistance.

For more information on towing, licensing requirements, and legal towing capacities, or if you have specific questions about your vehicle’s towing capabilities, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to help ensure you’re towing safely and within the law.