Motoring

Government delays introduction of new UK towing rules

New UK towing rules due to come into force today (15 November) have been delayed and now await “parliamentary approvals”.

A new formal date for the rules change has yet to be agreed.

The change would mean drivers will no longer be required to take a car and trailer test to tow heavy caravans and trailers.

However, campaigners have pushed against the changes, calling for it to be “re-considered immediately”.

If the change get’s the go-ahead, motorists that passed their car driving test from 1 January 1997, will be allowed to tow trailers up to 3,500kg MAM from 15 November 2021.

Drivers that passed their car driving test before 1 January 1997 will not be affected by the change.

New UK towing rules confirmed: What can I tow?

These drivers are usually allowed to drive a vehicle and trailer combination up to 8,250kg maximum authorised mass (MAM).

They are also allowed to drive a minibus with a trailer over 750kg MAM.

The DVLA will update driving licence records to reflect the change.

While it’s not mandatory, it’s recommended that first-timers get trailer training.

The DVSA’s ‘national standard for driving cars and light vans’ advises on the skills, knowledge and understanding needed to tow a trailer or caravan.

Until the law changes, drivers must continue to follow the current rules or be fined up to £1,000, be banned from driving and get up to six penalty points.

Mike Ruff

Recent Posts

BEDEO launches electric motorhome range

Motorhome enthusiasts seeking eco-friendly travel options now have a new player in the game as…

1 year ago

More calls for Highland Council to scrap “unworkable” motorhome pass scheme

Highland Council’s motorhome pass scheme has come under fire once again, with MSP Edward Mountain…

1 year ago

‘Pembs Stop’ overnight parking trial expected to be scrapped

A proposed trial allowing overnight parking for motorhomes and campervans in several Pembrokeshire car parks…

1 year ago

National Trust urges people to ‘leave no trace’ after increase in illegal camping and littering

The National Trust asking visitors appropriately dispose of their litter, use designated campsites, not to…

1 year ago

CADAC 2 Cook 3 Turbo: New lightweight stove from Dometic

Dometic has launched a new mobile cooking stove: The CADAC Dometic 2 Cook 3 Turbo.…

1 year ago

People smuggler jailed for stashing migrants inside motorhome

A British national who attempted to smuggle 5 migrants, including a 5-year-old child, has been…

1 year ago