Can I Tow a Caravan on My Licence? And Other Caravan Towing FAQs

Towing a caravan gives you the freedom to explore new destinations at your own pace. However, it’s important to be aware of the legal requirements, vehicle capabilities, and safety considerations involved in towing before you set up. This blog answers common questions about licences, vehicle suitability, speed limits, insurance, and more, helping you prepare for a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Can I tow a caravan on my licence?

Whether you can tow a caravan will depend on when you passed your driving test and the combined weight of your car and caravan.

If you passed your driving test on or after 1 January 1997, you’re usually allowed to tow trailers up to 3,500kg Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) with a car. This means you can tow most caravans, but you should always check the weight limits for your specific vehicle and caravan combination.

If you passed your test before 1 January 1997, your licence likely includes entitlement to drive vehicles with a combined weight of up to 8,250kg MAM, which covers a broader range of towing combinations.

You can check your driving licence online via the GOV.UK website to see exactly what you’re entitled to tow. It’s also important to understand your car’s towing capacity and make sure you’re within legal weight limits to stay safe and compliant on the road.

Can my car tow a caravan?

Your car will have a towing capacity, which is set by the manufacturer. This figure will tell you the maximum weight your car can safely pull and should never be exceeded.

You’ll usually find this information in your car’s handbook or on the manufacturer’s plate (often located inside the driver-side door frame). The key figure to look for is the Maximum Braked Towing Weight – this refers to the weight of a trailer or caravan that has its own braking system.

As previously discussed, you also need to consider your driving licence entitlements and ensure the combined weight of the car and caravan falls within the legal limits.

To check compatibility, compare your car’s towing capacity with the MTPLM (Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass) of the caravan. It’s generally recommended that the caravan’s MTPLM doesn’t exceed 85% of your car’s kerb weight, especially for beginners. This is known as the “85% rule” and is a good guideline for stability and safety.

Can an electric car tow a caravan?

Some electric cars can tow a caravan, but not all are approved for towing. The towing capability depends on the specific model of vehicle. You’ll need to check whether towing is allowed and what the Maximum Braked Towing Capacity is for the EV (electric vehicle).

EVs tend to have strong torque and lower centres of gravity, which can make them stable towers. However, towing does place extra demand on the battery, so the range will be reduced, and you may need to stop more frequently to charge, especially on longer trips.

If you’re considering an EV for towing, you should look for models that are explicitly designed with towing in mind, such as larger electric SUVs. You should also always check the vehicle’s documentation or manufacturer website for towing specs before you hitch up.

Do I need special insurance to tow a caravan?

Car insurance typically covers third-party liability while towing, meaning if your caravan causes damage to another vehicle or property, you’re usually protected. However, your caravan itself is not automatically covered against theft or damage under standard car insurance.

To properly protect your caravan, it’s recommended to take out separate caravan insurance. This can cover:

• Accidental damage
• Theft
• Storm or flood damage
• Contents inside the caravan

If your caravan is particularly valuable or you use it frequently, it’s definitely worth considering specialist insurance. Some insurers also offer discounts for added security features, such as wheel locks or tracking devices. You should always check with your insurance provider to understand exactly what is and isn’t covered when towing.

Are there restrictions on towing caravans on motorways or certain roads?

Yes, there are a few restrictions and rules to be aware of when towing a caravan on UK roads, especially motorways and dual carriageways.

On motorways, caravans are allowed, but your speed limit is reduced to 60mph, even if the road limit is higher. You are also not allowed to use the right-hand lane of a three-lane motorway unless there’s a lane closure or you’re directed to.

Some smaller roads, bridges, or city routes may have weight, width, or height restrictions that can apply to larger caravans. It’s best to plan your route in advance and consider using a sat nav designed for towing, which can help you to avoid unsuitable roads.

Finally, you should always make sure your caravan is roadworthy and correctly loaded, as the police can stop you if they suspect something is unsafe or breaking legal limits.

Can you tow a caravan with an automatic car?

Yes, you can tow a caravan with an automatic car, and in many cases, it can actually make towing easier. Automatic transmissions remove the need for gear changes when starting on hills or in stop-start traffic, which can reduce strain and make for a smoother drive.

However, it’s important to check the towing capacity of your specific vehicle model, as automatic and manual versions can differ. Some older automatics might have cooling limitations when towing heavy loads, but most modern automatics are well-equipped for the job.

As with any towing setup, you should always stay within the manufacturer’s recommended weight limits and ensure your licence covers the towing combination.

What’s the speed limit for a car towing a caravan?

The speed limits are lower than for standard driving when you’re towing a caravan:

• 60mph on motorways and dual carriageways
• 50mph on single carriageways
• 30mph in built-up areas, unless otherwise signed

These limits are in place to help maintain stability and safety while towing. If you exceed them, you can face penalties as well as increase the risk of snaking, especially in high winds or if you’re overtaking.

Are passengers allowed to ride in a caravan being towed?

No, passengers are not allowed to travel in a caravan while it is being towed on UK roads. It’s both unsafe and illegal.

Caravans aren’t designed to protect occupants during transit. They lack seatbelts, crash protection, and the stability required for safe travel at speed. Therefore, all passengers must be seated in the towing vehicle with appropriate restraints. Even pets should travel in the car rather than the caravan for their safety and wellbeing.

What penalties are there for towing a caravan illegally?

Towing a caravan illegally can lead to a number of penalties, depending on the nature of the offence. Common issues include exceeding weight limits, not having the correct licence, or using an unsuitable vehicle. Possible consequences include:

• Fines
• Points on your driving licence
• Invalidated insurance
• Prosecution for dangerous driving
• Vehicle being prohibited from continuing the journey

Police and DVSA officers can carry out roadside checks, and if your setup is found to be unsafe or illegal, you may be stopped from towing until the issue is resolved. Staying within weight limits, having the right licence and ensuring your vehicle is properly maintained are essential to avoid penalties.

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