Guides to towing a trailer
Each guide sets out what GOV.UK publishes, in the order you need it. Every figure was read on 10 October 2026 and each guide links its sources.
Check your own figures
Can my car tow it?
Enter the weight on the trailer's plate and your car's towing limit. Each legal limit is checked and the rule is shown beside it.
OpenUK towing figures
All 41 limits, fees and dates on this site in one table, each with its GOV.UK source, to read or download.
Open
Guides
Towing a trailer in the UK
What a car licence covers, how to find your car's limit, the maximum width and length, brakes, mirrors and speed limits.
OpenDo you need a B+E licence?
Why there is no separate car and trailer test, what category BE means and when DVLA adds it to a licence.
OpenTrailer weights explained
What maximum authorised mass, gross train weight and tow ball load mean, where to find each one, and a worked example.
OpenSpeed limits when towing
The national limits for a car with a trailer beside the limits for the car alone, and the motorway lane rule.
OpenHow to load a trailer
Where the heavy items go, why the tow ball needs a downward load, and what the Highway Code says about securing it.
OpenTrailer safety checks before you tow
The coupling, breakaway cable, tyres, lights and load checks GOV.UK lists, and what to do if the trailer starts to snake.
OpenDo trailers need an MOT?
The short list of trailers that need an annual test, when the first one is due, and what applies to the rest.
OpenTaking a trailer abroad
Which trailers have to be registered before they leave the UK, the four countries where the rule does not apply, and the fees.
OpenThe operator's licence for towing
When towing for a business needs a goods vehicle operator's licence, the three types, the fees and how long an application takes.
Open
Rather not tow it yourself? Trailer Delivery will collect a trailer or touring caravan and tow it to your address. It is not open yet. Leave an email address and we will tell you when bookings open.
Join the waiting list