Towing Changes From 16th December 2021
Towing changes for all car drivers who have passed their driving test since 1st January 1997 have now changed from 16th December 2021. Following the towign changes drivers can now tow a trailer up to 3500kg in weight without the requirement for another test.
These towing changes will be done automatically so DVLA driving licence records will reflect these changes. There is no need to contact the DVLA. The car and trailer category will be added to your photocard driving licence when you apply for a new licence. Car drivers who passed their test before January 1997 will already have this category on their licence.
The DVSA stopped carrying out car and trailer tests in September 2021, allowing an increase of HGV driving tests to help tackle the lorry driver shortage.
Initially there were safety concerns about people driving trailers without experience. Before you take your horse in a trailer we would advise reading the Government guidance on towing a trailer safetly – Guidance on towing safely and ensure that both the car and trailer have been serviced.
It is important to note that you must check your car’s handbook to find out its gross train weight (GTW). This is the total allowable weight of the car plus the trailer plus the load.