Caravan and Trailer Towing Rules in the UK

Summary

• Licence rules changed in 2021: Drivers who passed after January 1997 no longer need a separate test to tow.
• Weight limits are critical: Exceeding your car's towing capacity is dangerous and illegal.
• Speed limits are lower when towing: 50mph on single carriageways, 60mph on dual carriageways and motorways. See our towing rules guide.

Thinking about towing a caravan or trailer? Here are the rules you need to follow in the UK.

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Licence Requirements

Since autumn 2021, the rules were simplified:

• Category B licence: A standard car licence now allows you to tow trailers up to 3,500kg MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass) combined weight.
• No separate test needed: The old B+E test requirement was removed.
• However: You should still be competent. Consider a towing course if you are new to it.

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Understanding Weight Limits

Term	Meaning
MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass)	The maximum weight of your vehicle or trailer when fully loaded
Kerb weight	The weight of your car without passengers or luggage
Towing capacity	The maximum weight your car can legally tow (found in the owner's manual)
Nose weight	The downward force of the trailer on the tow ball

Never exceed your car's towing capacity. Overloading makes the car unstable and voids your insurance.

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Speed Limits When Towing

Road Type	Speed Limit
Built-up areas	30mph
Single carriageways	50mph
Dual carriageways	60mph
Motorways	60mph

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Safety Tips for Towing

1. Check the coupling: Make sure the trailer is securely attached to the tow ball.
2. Connect the electrics: All lights and indicators on the trailer must work.
3. Attach the breakaway cable: This applies the trailer brakes if it detaches.
4. Check tyre pressures: On both the car and the trailer.
5. Load the trailer correctly: Heavy items low and over the axle. Do not overload the rear.
6. Use towing mirrors: You must be able to see the road behind you.
7. Practice reversing: Reversing with a trailer takes practice. Start in an empty car park.

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Motorway Rules When Towing

• Stay in the left lane unless overtaking.
• Do not use the right-hand lane on a three-lane motorway.
• Leave extra following distance.

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Final Thoughts

Towing safely means knowing the rules and preparing properly. Check your weights, follow the speed limits, and take your time.

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Choosing the Right Tow Car

Not every car makes a good tow car. Here's what to look for:

• Engine torque: Diesel engines are usually better for towing due to higher torque.
• Weight: Your car should weigh at least as much as what you're towing.
• Transmission: Automatic gearboxes are easier for towing, especially in traffic.
• Tow bar rating: Check your car's tow bar is rated for the trailer weight.

Popular Tow Cars in the UK

• Land Rover Discovery: Excellent towing capacity (up to 3,500kg).
• Skoda Kodiaq: Great all-rounder with good towing ability.
• Volkswagen Tiguan: Reliable and popular with caravan owners.

Before buying a used tow car, always run a car history check.

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