UK Tow Weight Limits.
Whether you’re planning to tow a caravan for a holiday or haul equipment for work, understanding the UK’s towing limits is essential. Towing laws and regulations are in place to ensure safety for all road users. Failing to comply with these limits can result in penalties, voided insurance, or even dangerous accidents. This guide outlines the key information you need to tow legally and safely in the UK.
What Are Towing Limits?
Towing limits refer to the maximum weight your vehicle is legally allowed to tow. This includes both braked and unbraked trailers. These limits depend on your vehicle’s specifications, the type of trailer, your driving licence, and your level of experience.
Key Terms to Know
- GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): The total maximum weight of the vehicle when fully loaded.
- GTW (Gross Train Weight): The combined maximum weight of the vehicle and the trailer.
- Kerb Weight: The weight of the vehicle with all standard equipment, fuel, oil, coolant, and driver.
- MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass): The maximum weight a vehicle or trailer is legally allowed to be when fully loaded.
Towing with a Car: Legal Weight Limits
Braked vs. Unbraked Trailers
- Braked Trailer: Has its own braking system. You can typically tow up to the manufacturer’s specified maximum — often 1,500 to 3,500 kg depending on the vehicle.
- Unbraked Trailer: No separate braking system. Legally limited to 750 kg MAM or half the kerb weight of the towing vehicle (whichever is lower).
Driving Licence Rules
Pre-1997 Licences
If you passed your driving test before 1 January 1997, you’re usually allowed to drive a vehicle and trailer combination with a combined weight of up to 8,250 kg MAM.
Post-1997 Licences
If you passed your test on or after 1 January 1997, the rules changed:
- You were initially restricted to towing trailers up to 750 kg, or a combined vehicle and trailer MAM of up to 3,500 kg.
- As of 16 December 2021, changes to the law mean that all standard Category B licence holders (regardless of test date) can now tow trailers up to 3,500 kg MAM without needing to take an additional B+E test.
Important: Even though the B+E test was removed, you should still practice safe towing and consider training from an accredited provider if you’re new to towing.
How to Check Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity
You can find towing capacity information in several places:
- Vehicle Handbook: The manufacturer’s guidance on towing limits.
- VIN Plate: Usually located under the bonnet or door sill. It shows the vehicle’s maximum weight and GTW.
- Manufacturer Website: Use your car’s make, model, and year for specifics.
Formula:
Towing Capacity = GTW – GVW
Towing Equipment Requirements
- Tow Bar: Must be EC-approved for vehicles registered after 1998.
- Lights & Indicators: Trailers must have working brake lights, indicators, and reflectors.
- Mirrors: Use towing mirrors if the trailer is wider than your car.
- Number Plate: The trailer must have a plate matching the towing vehicle.
- Breakaway Cable: Required for braked trailers; engages the trailer brakes if it becomes detached.
Speed Limits for Towing
- Motorways and Dual Carriageways: 60 mph
- Single Carriageways: 50 mph
- Built-up Areas: 30 mph (unless otherwise stated)
You are not allowed in the right-hand lane of a motorway with three or more lanes if towing.
Penalties for Over-Towing
Exceeding your towing limit can result in:
- Fines up to £2,500
- 3 penalty points on your licence
- Possible insurance invalidation
- Risk of accidents or mechanical failure
Safe Towing Tips
- Load the trailer evenly, with heavier items over the axle.
- Check tyre pressure and tread depth on both car and trailer.
- Practice reversing with a trailer in a safe, open area.
- Use stabilisers if towing a caravan.
Summary
Towing limits in the UK are tightly regulated to keep drivers safe and vehicles within their design capabilities. Always check your vehicle’s towing capacity and ensure your trailer is legally compliant. Whether you’re heading off on a family camping trip or transporting tools for work, towing safely and legally should be your top priority.
