Can you legally tow a trailer or caravan?
If you passed a car test on or after 1 January 1997 you are only entitled to drive a vehicle in category B, that is a motor vehicle up to 3.5 tonnes maximum authorised mass (MAM) and you can only tow a trailer up to 750 kgs MAM.(More details about trailer towing can be found at www.direct.gov.uk) This means that you cannot legally tow trailers such as: horse boxes, caravans or large trailers unless you pass the car and trailer test (category B+E). Also, if you have been disqualified from driving and passed a test since 1st January 1997, you will have lost your entitlement to tow and will have to pass a separate car and trailer test.

Towing a trailer when you do not have the entitlement will invalidate your insurance. This can lead to a prosecution with 9 penalty points on your driving licence and a fine of up to £1000
Driver Training North East is one of a few companies who can provide specialist trailer towing courses in the North East.
Funding available until end of July 2011 for farmers, growers and forestry of up to 70%.

Trailer courses offered:

• 1 Day course of 6 hours, followed by a test the following day, this is for a student who has recently taken and failed a test.
• 2 Day course of 12 hours followed by a test the next day, for someone who has some experience of towing.
• 3 or 4 day course of 18 or 24 hours followed by the test, for someone who has never towed before.
• 1/2 day course for people who have the entitlement on their licence but have never towed before or just need a refresher build confidence.

Notes:

• All of the above courses are taylored to your needs, and are carried out by Driving Standard Agency (DSA) approved driving instructors.
• Refreshment and rest breaks will be taken as required on all courses.
• Your own vehicle and trailer can be used if up to test standard, or Driver Training North East Ltd will provide for you if necessary.
• NFU members can claim 10% off B+E training fees, contact NFU on 0870 845 8458 with your membership details to claim your voucher.
• Additional funding could be available for trailer training. Please contact us for more information.