UK towing laws: What every driver should know

UK Towing Laws: A Comprehensive Guide for Drivers

Towing a trailer, caravan, or other vehicle behind your car or van in the UK involves more than just attaching it to the back and hitting the road. Strict regulations govern towing to ensure safety for all road users. Understanding the laws is crucial to avoid fines, points on your driving licence, or even accidents. Here's everything you need to know about UK towing laws.

1. Licensing Requirements

Your entitlement to tow a trailer depends on when you passed your driving test:

Before 1 January 1997: Drivers who passed their test before this date automatically have the right to tow a trailer up to 8,250kg Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM), which includes the combined weight of both the towing vehicle and the trailer.
After 1 January 1997: If you passed your driving test on or after this date, you are limited to towing a vehicle and trailer with a combined weight of 3,500kg MAM. You can only tow a heavier trailer if you pass an additional B+E test, which grants you the ability to tow trailers up to 3,500kg MAM.

2. Towing Capacity of the Vehicle

The amount you can tow is not just limited by your driving licence; your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity is also a significant factor. To check your vehicle’s towing limit, you can:

Refer to your vehicle’s handbook. This isn't always accuate as they base these figures on the model range and will be inclusive of saloons, estates and convertibles.
Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate on your car. This can be found on the drivers or passengers door panel or under the bonnet. Typically, it provides two weights: the vehicle's gross weight (without a trailer) and the gross train weight (including a trailer). To calculate the towing capacity you subtract the second figure by the first and what that equates is the maxium weight in Kgs that your vehicle can tow. This is the most accuate way to calculate what your vehicles towing capcity.

It is illegal to exceed these limits. Overloading your trailer or vehicle can affect handling, braking, and overall safety.

3. Trailer Weight and Size Limits

Max trailer weight: You must ensure your trailer does not exceed the vehicle's maximum towing weight.
Width: The trailer's maximum width is 2.55 meters.
Length: For a vehicle weighing up to 3,500kg, the maximum length of the trailer is 7 meters, not including the A-frame or tow bar.

4. Braking Systems for Trailers

There are specific rules about when a trailer needs to have its own braking system:

If the trailer’s MAM exceeds 750kg, it must be equipped with a braking system.
Trailers that weigh less than this do not need brakes, but the towing vehicle must be able to handle the additional weight safely.

5. Speed Limits When Towing

Towing vehicles must adhere to different speed limits compared to regular cars:

Motorways and dual carriageways: 60 mph (96 km/h)
Single carriageways: 50 mph (80 km/h)
Built-up areas: 30 mph (48 km/h)

It's also illegal to use the outside lane of a motorway when towing, unless directed otherwise by signage.

6. Tow Bars and Tow Ball Mounting

Tow bars used for towing must meet EC regulations and be suitable for your car. It’s essential to have the correct type of tow bar fitted, usually done by a professional to ensure safety.

Tow bars must be labelled with information about the vehicle's and trailer’s load limits.
Regular maintenance of the tow bar is essential for safe towing.

7. Towing Mirrors

When towing, your visibility can be severely limited. It’s a legal requirement to have towing mirrors if your trailer or caravan is wider than your vehicle. Failure to have adequate mirrors can lead to a fine of up to £1,000 and 3 penalty points.

8. Number Plates and Lighting

Your trailer or caravan must have:

A clearly visible number plate that matches the towing vehicle.
Working lights, including brake lights, indicators, and reflectors. From 2012, trailers manufactured after October 1, 1982, also need to have fog lights.

It's a good idea to check your lights and electrical connections regularly to avoid accidents or fines.

9. Insurance for Towing

Most standard car insurance policies cover towing, but it’s always best to check with your insurer.Uninsured towing can carry severe penalities or policy cancallations.Some policies may require additional cover, especially if you’re towing larger or more valuable items like a caravan.

10. Towing a Broken-Down Vehicle

When towing a broken-down car, there are additional rules to follow:

Tow ropes or bars must not exceed 4.5 meters. If it's longer than 1.5 meters, you need to attach a flag or marker to make it visible.
Both the towing vehicle and the towed vehicle must have their lights on during nighttime or poor visibility conditions.

Remember that if you’re using a rigid towing bar, the towed car must be roadworthy and have an MOT certificate.

11. Towing for Business Purposes

If you tow for work, such as transporting goods or machinery, different rules may apply under Goods Vehicle Operator Licensing. Ensure you understand the regulations specific to commercial towing to avoid penalties.

12. Penalties for Breaking Towing Laws

Breaking towing laws can result in:

A fine of up to £1,000.
3 penalty points on your licence.
Potentially a driving ban if you're caught overloading or driving dangerously while towing.

Final Thoughts

Towing safely and legally is about more than just connecting a trailer to your vehicle. You must follow strict weight, speed, and safety regulations to protect yourself, your passengers, and other road users. Always check your driving licence, vehicle capacity, and trailer setup before you hit the road.

By adhering to the UK’s towing laws, you can enjoy safe travels, whether you’re off for a weekend camping trip with your caravan or transporting goods for work.