If you are thinking of towing a caravan or a trailer in the UK then you should be aware of the following government driver licensing regulations. The current license types are the following: B (vehicle up to 8 passengers, 3.5 tonnes and under), C (large goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes), C1 (medium-sized vehicles, 7.5 tonnes and under), D (vehicle with more than 8 seats), D1 (vehicles between 9-16 seats). The maximum permitted towing weight allowed for a common B type license is 750kgs. The combined weight of the towing vehicle and the trailer must not be more than 4.25 tonnes. However, a driver with license type B can also tow a trailer that exceeds 750kgs as long as the trailers' maximum gross weight is not more than the unladden weight of the towing vehicle. In the case of towing a caravan it is recommended that the weight of the caravan doesn't go over 85% of the weight of the vehicle that is towing it. An exception of the towing weight restrictions can be made only in a situation when another broken down vehicle needs to be towed if it's impeding or endangering other road users.If you obtained your driving license before 01/01/1997 then you will most probably be able to tow a trailer to a combined weight of 8.25 tonnes and you will keep this entitlement until your license expires. Under these previous licensing regulations you will also be able to drive a minibus with a trailer weighing more than 750kgs. All licenses issued after this date are bound by the regulations summarized here. For all other license types (C, C1, D, D1) the maximum allowed towing weight is 750kgs and there are no exceptions. You will have to extend your license type to be able to tow anything heavier. The extension license types are the following: B+E, C+E, C1+E,, D+E, D1+E. To obtain these licenses you will have to pass the relevant theory and practical exams.
Ok is there a demand for this in GB or a general unawareness of the rules? I've driven in Europe and frankly I didn't think there were any rules except whomever is first. Only kidding we have our own prblems with road rules.
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