Towing rules in the UK have seen major simplifications in recent years — particularly the 2021 change that allowed most Category B licence holders to tow heavier trailers without taking an additional test. But with new drivers entering the system each year, updated DVSA guidance, and ongoing policy clarifications, many people are unsure what they can legally tow in 2026.
This guide breaks down the current rules in simple terms, helping you understand your towing entitlements, weight limits, and legal responsibilities before you buy or hire a trailer.
UK Towing Licence Basics (Pre- and Post-2021 Changes)
Before December 2021, drivers who passed their test after 1997 faced tighter restrictions and often needed to take an additional BE test to tow anything substantial. This created confusion, with inconsistent rules depending on age and test date.
Everything changed in late 2021:
- The BE test requirement was removed.
- Category B licence holders automatically gained entitlement to tow trailers up to 3,500kg MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass), as long as the towing vehicle is capable and legally rated for the load.
- The DVSA updated towing guidance to simplify enforcement and improve clarity for new drivers.
Fast-forward to 2026: the rules are settled, consistent, and easier to understand — but you still need to know your limits, check your vehicle’s towing capacity, and meet safety requirements.
What You Can Tow with a Standard Car Licence in 2026
If you hold a standard Category B car licence, you can tow more than ever before — but the vehicle’s capabilities and weight limits must always be respected.
With a Category B licence (2026):
You can legally tow:
- Trailers up to 3,500kg MAM
- As long as the vehicle’s maximum towing capacity is not exceeded
- And the combined weight (vehicle + trailer) stays within the vehicle’s Gross Train Weight (GTW)
Common examples
- A family car towing a small utility trailer (500–750kg)
- A medium SUV towing a car transporter trailer (1,800–2,200kg)
- A 4×4 towing a large livestock or plant trailer (up to 3,500kg), if rated for it
If your vehicle cannot legally tow the trailer’s weight, your licence entitlement does not override that limit.
When You Need Additional Licence Categories
Although most everyday and business users are covered under Category B, there are situations where higher entitlements are required.
BE Licence
Previously mandatory for heavier trailers, BE now remains relevant mainly for:
- Older drivers whose licence still shows BE entitlement
- Professional users who regularly tow near the upper limits
- Specialist towing activities
C1+E Licence
Required for:
- Towing with vehicles between 3,500kg and 7,500kg (e.g., larger vans or small trucks)
- Commercial operators needing increased Gross Train Weight
These categories are most common in trades, logistics, equestrian transport, and plant hire sectors.
If in doubt, you can check the latest DVSA guidance or speak with a local towing expert.
How to Check Your Licence Entitlements
You can quickly confirm your towing rights by reviewing your licence category codes.
Check online:
Use the DVLA’s “View My Licence” service to see:
- Categories you hold (B, BE, C1, C1+E)
- Validity dates
- Any restrictions or codes
On your physical licence card:
Look for categories printed on the back — for example:
- B = standard car entitlement
- BE = car + trailer combinations beyond basic B rules
- C1/C1+E = larger vehicles and trailers
Understanding these codes ensures you’re legally covered before you hitch up and tow.
Legal Responsibilities When Towing
Even if your licence allows you to tow, you still have essential legal duties.
Roadworthiness
Your trailer must be in safe working order:
- Tyres with correct tread
- Fully functioning lights
- Secure coupling
- No structural damage
Weight Distribution
Incorrect loading is one of the leading causes of trailer instability. Aim for roughly 60% of the load in front of the axle and keep weight low and central.
Braking Requirements
Any trailer over 750kg MAM must have working brakes. For many car transporters, livestock trailers or plant trailers, this is a key legal requirement.
Insurance and Cover
Not all insurance policies cover towing or the trailer itself. Always check your documents — especially for business use.
If your trailer needs maintenance or inspection, see our Trailer Servicing and Spare Parts pages, or Contact us for support.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Many towing issues stem from simple errors that are easy to prevent.
Avoid:
- Exceeding vehicle towing limits — always check your handbook or manufacturer spec.
- Using the wrong number plate — your trailer must display the same registration as your tow vehicle.
- Incorrect or missing breakaway cables — a legal requirement for braked trailers.
- Poorly secured loads — straps should be rated and checked before travel.
- Travelling with unbalanced loads — which increases sway and braking risk.
When in doubt, ask a trailer specialist to assess your setup before you hit the road.
What to Do if You’re Not Covered
If you’re unsure about your towing entitlement or your vehicle’s capabilities:
- Don’t tow until you’re confident it’s legal and safe
- Consider trailer hire for one-off jobs
- Ask your insurer whether towing is included
- Speak to a dealer like Three Shires Trailers for advice on suitable options
If you only need a trailer temporarily, our Trailer Hire service can save you both time and cost.
Takeaways
- In 2026, most Category B drivers can legally tow trailers up to 3,500kg, subject to vehicle limits.
- Always check your vehicle’s towing capacity and licence category codes.
- Safety requirements — brakes, lights, plates, loading — are just as important as licence rules.
- When unsure, consult DVLA tools or speak with a trailer expert for guidance.
If you need help choosing the right trailer or want to check towing limits for a specific model, feel free to Contact us — our team is here to help.