Changes to trailer training
50,000 extra lorry tests and less trailer testing
From the DVSA:
The government has announced plans to help to tackle the shortage of lorry drivers by creating an extra 50,000 lorry tests.
Changes to tests will come into force as soon as possible. They follow a public consultation over the summer, which saw thousands of respondents, including industry leaders, support the move as a positive step to help the sector tackle the lorry driver shortage currently affecting countries around the world.
These changes will not change the standard of driving required to drive an HGV, with road safety continuing to be of paramount importance. Any driver who does not demonstrate utmost competence will not be granted a licence. All car drivers will also still be encouraged to undertake training to tow trailers and caravans.
We’ve already delivered 50% more tests than were available before the pandemic, but today’s additional measures will deliver yet more tests.
Public feedback on the consultation proposals
The consultation received over 9,500 responses and most respondents supported the proposals.
We’ve analysed the responses and published a summary of the public feedback on these proposals on GOV.UK.
We will publish a full consultation report in due course.
Cars towing a trailer
Drivers who passed their car test before 1 January 1997 can already tow a car and trailer without taking a car and trailer test.
As a result of these changes, all car drivers will be able to tow a trailer weighing up to 3,500kg without the need for an additional test when the law is changed, which will be as soon as possible.
Until then, car drivers who gained their licence after 1 January 1997 will only be able to tow a trailer weighing up to 3,500kg if they display L plates and are supervised by a driver aged over 21 who has had a car and trailer licence for 3 years or more or passed their car test before 1 January 1997.
To make more lorry tests available, DVSA will not be carrying out any car and trailer tests from 20 September.
We’ve published detailed guidance about the new rules for towing a trailer or caravan with a car that will apply until the law changes and what you’ll be able to do when the law has changed.
If you offer car and trailer lessons
Professional training is still important for car drivers who want to tow a trailer, so we will continue to encourage those wanting to tow to seek training before towing a trailer.
We encourage you to talk to your car and trailer pupils to explain what they will no longer need to take a test and will be able to tow a trailer that’s up to 3,500kg maximum authorised mass (MAM) when the law changes.
You can also signpost your pupils to our towing guidance.