British drivers to be allowed to tow heavier caravans

The British Government has announced a change to driving laws that could have a positive impact on the caravanning industry. The proposed change would allow all UK car drivers to be able to tow a trailer or touring caravan weighing up to 3,500kg (maximum authorised mass, or MAM) without the need for an additional B+E test, regardless of when they passed their driving test. Previously this freedom was only allowed for British drivers who had passed their driving test before 1 January 1997 – but once the law changes it will apply to all. Essentially this means that touring caravans will be more accessible to more people in the UK, which could translate into increased caravan sales for the industry. 

A statement on the UK Government website explained: “If you passed your car driving test from 1 January 1997, you’ll be allowed to tow trailers up to 3,500kg MAM when the law changes.

“The Driver Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) will update your driving licence record to show that you’re allowed to tow trailers. You’ll get category BE added to your driving licence when you get a new photocard driving licence. You do not need to contact DVLA for this to happen. It will be done automatically.”

The change is part of a wider move from the UK Government to try and streamline driving tests for heavy goods vehicle drivers as it aims to tackle a shortage of them, which has been caused by a combination of Brexit and the coronavirus pandemic. It is estimated the country has lot about 50,000 drivers in the last two years.

There has been criticism of the changes from a road safety point of view, however the UK’s Secretary of State for Transport, Grant Shapps MP, was keen to point out that while testing is being streamlined for HGV drivers, the rigour of the test would remain the same. The Government website also recommends new trailer or caravan towers to take training from a qualified instructor before they tow for the first time. No firm date has been set for the changes to the laws.

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