Did you know that new rules for towing a caravan with a car started on 16 December 2021?

What changed?

If you passed your car driving test from 1 January 1997, you’re now allowed to tow trailers up to 3,500kg maximum authorised mass (MAM). DVLA will update your driving licence record to show that you’re allowed to tow trailers. You do not need to contact DVLA for this to happen. It will be done automatically. You’ll get category BE added to your driving licence when you next apply to get a new driving licence.

‘The change to the law opens up caravanning to a generation of users previously denied the pleasure unless a special test was taken. This is great news!’ Stuart Craig, Head of Leisure Shield Total Insurance

If you passed your car driving test before 1 January 1997, you are not affected by the change. More information on the license changes can be found here.

Towing a caravan for the first time

To many towing a touring caravan or trailer is a daunting task and can put “would be buyers” off, but it is simple once you know how. Follow simple guidelines and you will find the experience can be enjoyable. Read our top tips here. The Government also recommends taking training from a driving instructor if you want to start driving a car and a caravan or trailer. The ‘National standard for driving cars and light vans’ tells you about the skills, knowledge and understanding you need to tow a trailer or caravan.

Want to stay fully up-to-date for the best caravanning advice this year? From post-Brexit travel advice to our guide to touring caravan insurance costs, we have everything you need in our blog. Check it out here.