The rules around towing licences in the UK changed significantly in January 2022, and they depend on when you passed your driving test. Whether you’re planning to tow a caravan, horse box, or trailer, understanding what your licence allows is essential to stay legal.

Licence Categories Explained

When You PassedWhat You Can TowCombined MAM Limit
Before 1 Jan 1997Vehicle + trailer up to 8,250 kg MAM8,250 kg
1 Jan 1997 – 15 Nov 2021Vehicle + trailer up to 3,500 kg MAM (or took B+E test for more)3,500 kg (or more with B+E)
After 16 Nov 2021Vehicle + trailer up to 3,500 kg MAM3,500 kg

What Changed in 2022?

Before November 2021, drivers who passed their test after 1 January 1997 could only tow small trailers (up to 750 kg) on their standard Category B licence. To tow anything heavier, they needed to pass a separate B+E towing test.

From 16 November 2021, the B+E test was scrapped. All Category B licence holders can now tow trailers up to 3,500 kg combined MAM without taking an additional test. This applies to everyone who passed after 1997, not just new drivers.

Pro Tip: Even though the towing test has been abolished, professional towing tuition is highly recommended. A day’s training course (typically £200–400) covers hitching, manoeuvring, reversing, and what to do if your trailer starts to snake.

Understanding MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass)

MAM is the key concept for towing legality. It is the maximum weight of a vehicle or trailer when fully loaded, as stated by the manufacturer. Crucially, it is the maximum possible weight, not the actual weight at any given time.

For example, if your car has a MAM of 2,000 kg and your caravan has a MAM of 1,500 kg, the combined MAM is 3,500 kg — exactly at the limit for a standard Category B licence.

How to Check Your Licence

You can check which categories your licence covers by:

Look for Category B (standard car) and Category BE (if you took the old towing test). If you passed before 1997, you should also see categories C1, C1+E, and D1, which allow larger vehicle and trailer combinations.

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Penalties for Exceeding Weight Limits

Towing over your licence or vehicle weight limits is taken seriously. Potential consequences include:

  • Fine of up to £1,000
  • 3 penalty points on your licence
  • Insurance invalidation — if you have an accident while towing illegally, your insurer may refuse the claim
  • Prohibition notice — the police can prevent you from continuing your journey

Final Thoughts

The removal of the B+E towing test in 2022 simplified things for many drivers, but it also means more people are towing without formal training. If you’re new to towing, invest in a course — the skills you learn could prevent a serious accident. And always check the combined MAM of your outfit before hitting the road.

Licence entitlements can be checked at gov.uk/view-driving-licence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, if the combined MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass) of your car and caravan does not exceed 3,500 kg. If you passed your test before January 1997, you have more generous allowances. The B+E test was removed in 2022, so there is no longer a separate towing test.
The separate B+E towing test was abolished. Drivers who passed their test after January 1997 no longer need to take an additional test to tow trailers over 750 kg. However, the 3,500 kg combined MAM limit still applies for most licence holders.
MAM stands for Maximum Authorised Mass — the maximum weight of a vehicle or trailer when fully loaded, as specified by the manufacturer. It is not the actual weight but the maximum permitted weight. Your car’s MAM is shown on the V5C and the VIN plate.
While there is no legal requirement for training, it is strongly recommended — especially for first-time towers. The Caravan and Motorhome Club and other organisations offer towing courses that teach hitching, manoeuvring, reversing, and emergency procedures.
Towing over your licence or vehicle weight limits is a criminal offence. Penalties include a fine of up to £1,000, 3 penalty points on your licence, and your insurance may be invalidated — meaning you would be personally liable for any accident costs.

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