Confused about Trailer Towing

parelligirl

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1 October 2009
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This has been racking my brain for so long - Ive tried to research so much on this but different views each time. I need to find the time to call DVLA and VOSA to see what they say but does anyone know at the moment.....

Im 22, so passed my car licence AFTER 1977

Now i thought for me to Tow i need to take my B+E test which i am looking to do.

BUT

Ive heard i now need to do a 7.5tonne / HGV test too because of what im towing.

My dad drives a 1998 Toyota Landcruiser (unladen weight of 2320kg i believe)

with our Ifor 505 Hunter which has a Maximum Towing Weight of 2340kg (again i believe)

And then my 16h TB/Welsh D whos is around 570kg?
And a 15h Welsh D / New Forest who is around 585kg?

Can someone please tell me if i need to do just my B+E Licence OR Both the B+E AND the HGV?

Thanks :)
xxxxxxx
 
The critical date is 1st Jan 1997, not 1977. If someone gained their licence before that date they have grandfather rights. Obviously you didn't if you are 22, but wanted to be clear for anyone else reading this. Good luck with doing your test.
 
You are absolutely right - you need to call VOSA or the DVLA - they are the only people who can give you the correct legal information.

I would certainly not be asking that sort of question on here - if you look at some of the history of posts on here you will see so many contradictory advice it will make your head spin!
 
Called VOSA today who said they have to get one of the techicians to call me as it can be complicated - Feel like this is going to be a long process with no answer at the end...

I feel like im sure i only have to do my B&E as that takes me up to able to tow 3.5 tonne doesnt it?

Dad keeps telling me i need to do 7.5 tonne!
 
You can already tow upto 3.5t on your license (I've been looking into this too) but you are highly unlikely to be able to find a car/laden trailer combo that would fit into this. Your B+E test allows you to tow upto a combined 7.5T (car + laden trailer). The HGV test is for anything OVER that.
 
Muhaha thats awesome my combo comes in at 2.8T if I got my Dad to insure me for his car. Unfortunatly I would never have to guts to actually tow myself so will be calling on him to drive anyway!
 
Hi,

The DVLA rules for towing are v complicated!
From my research, you need a B+E license to tow a trailer.
From the DVLA website "For driver licensing purposes there are no vehicle/trailer weight ratio limits for category B+E"

The B+E test costs £115 (£141 on an evening or weekend).

Check out this website for more info.

Good luck! x
 
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