Towing rules after December 2021
Under the new rules, the B+E test is no longer required, as long as the trailer or caravan you’re towing doesn’t exceed 3,500 kg MAM. If you passed your test before 1997, your entitlements remain the same, so you won’t need to make any adjustments.
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency DVSA) has updated its records to reflect these changes. However, if you passed your test before 1997, you won’t receive a new physical licence showing this entitlement until your next photo card renewal.
Should I do any training before towing a caravan or trailer?
While the B+E test has been scrapped, towing a heavy trailer or caravan for the first time is no small feat. It significantly changes the way your vehicle handles, from manoeuvring and braking to maintaining safe speeds.
Because of this, the DVSA and traffic experts highly recommend that new towers undertake some form of training.
- Trailer Driving Courses: These are run by certified instructors across the UK and provide practical experience with coupling, reversing, and towing safely on the road.
- Government Towing Safety Tips: The gov.uk website has a dedicated resource hub filled with towing safety checks and advice.
Taking training isn’t just about staying safe—it can also help you avoid fines of up to £2,500, three penalty points on your licence, and even a driving ban for unsafe towing.
For more tips on staying safe on the road, check out our driving guides.
Why Were the Regulations Changed?
The changes were introduced to address an acute shortage of Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers—a problem that’s affected supply chains nationwide in recent years. By removing the need for the B+E test, the government aims to free up capacity for around 50,000 additional HGV test appointments annually.
Another win? Simplifying towing rules makes them easier to understand and follow, helping drivers avoid unintentional breaches of the law.
Towing Safety Tips for Beginners
If you’re new to towing, make sure you follow these safety tips to keep yourself and others safe on the road.
Understand Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity
Not every car is suitable for towing heavy trailers or caravans. Exceeding your vehicle’s towing limits isn’t just illegal—it’s dangerous. Always check your vehicle manual for specific towing capacities.
Looking for a reliable tow car? Explore our comprehensive list of the best cars for towing caravans, including models like the Land Rover Discovery and the Volkswagen Tiguan.
Load Your Trailer or Caravan Correctly
An uneven or overloaded trailer can cause instability, making it prone to swaying. Keep your load balanced, with heavier items positioned over the axle, and ensure everything is securely fastened.
Perform Safety Checks
Before setting off, complete the following checks to ensure you’re ready to tow safely:
- Lights: Confirm that all lights on your trailer or caravan work correctly.
- Tyres: Inspect tyre pressure and condition, including the spare.
- Coupling: Ensure the tow ball and safety chain are securely connected.
- Mirrors: Fit towing mirrors if needed for a clear view of your trailer.
For a full pre-towing checklist, visit our vehicle checks guide.
Drive with Care
Driving with a trailer or caravan is markedly different from regular driving. Follow these simple rules:
- Slow Down: Stick to a maximum speed of 60 mph on motorways and dual carriageways, and 50 mph on single carriageways.
- Brake Early: The added weight increases stopping distances.
- Practice Manoeuvres: Reversing with a trailer can be tricky—practice in a safe, open space before you hit the road.
