Government announces rules for cars towing a caravan from autumn 2021

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For everyone who passed their car driving test from 1st January 1997, the rules on what you can tow are changing. Although, different rules apply if you live in Northern Ireland.

From later this autumn you’ll be allowed to tow a caravan up to 3,500kg MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass) without the need for an additional test.

Until the law changes (date to be confirmed) you must continue to follow the current rules regarding what you’re allowed to tow based on when you passed your car driving test.

Car and trailer driving tests will now not go ahead from 20 September 2021.

Swift Group recommends continuing to follow existing guidelines that recommend that the laden weight of the caravan does not exceed 85 per cent of the unladen weight of the car. Although this is not a requirement by law, this recommendation is designed to help improve stability when towing a caravan.

For more information on the new rules visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/new-rules-for-towing-a-trailer-or-caravan-with-a-car-from-autumn-2021#stay-up-to-date

NB: Maximum Technical Permitted Laden Mass (MTPLM) is the MAM as it applies to a caravan.

Read more on Touring Caravans for beginners.

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