There has been a lot of confusion recently around new driving laws, particularly in Northern Ireland, and whether these changes affect a driver’s legal entitlement to tow a trailer, caravan or horsebox.
At Towing Solutions, this is one of the most common questions we’re asked:
“I’ve passed my driving test — can I tow legally, and is it different in Northern Ireland?”
This blog explains the current rules clearly, using official UK and Northern Ireland government guidance, and outlines what the changes do (and do not) mean for towing.
What Changed in Great Britain?
In December 2021, the UK Government changed the law in Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales).
Before this change:
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Drivers who passed their car test after 1 January 1997 needed to pass an additional B+E test to tow heavier trailers.
After the change:
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Most drivers with a category B (car) licence can now tow:
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Trailers over 750kg
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As long as the combined vehicle and trailer weight stays within the vehicle manufacturer’s limits
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This change was intended to:
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Reduce test backlogs
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Simplify licence entitlements
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Allow drivers to tow without an additional test
Government reference:
🔗 https://www.gov.uk/towing-with-car
Does This Change Apply in Northern Ireland?
Yes — but with important differences in how licences are issued and updated.
In Northern Ireland, driving licences are issued by the DVA (Driver & Vehicle Agency) rather than the DVLA. While Northern Ireland generally aligns with GB legislation, the administrative process differs, which has caused confusion.
The key point:
👉 Northern Ireland drivers now have the same towing entitlement as drivers in Great Britain.
Drivers holding a full category B licence can tow heavier trailers without sitting a B+E test, provided they comply with vehicle limits.
Northern Ireland government reference:
🔗 https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/towing-trailer
Does It Matter When You Passed Your Driving Test?
If you passed your test before 1 January 1997
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You automatically have B+E entitlement
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You can tow heavier trailers legally
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This applies across the UK, including Northern Ireland
If you passed your test after 1 January 1997
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You can now tow heavier trailers under the updated rules
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No additional test is required
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However, you must:
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Stay within manufacturer towing limits
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Load correctly
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Drive safely and competently
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Importantly, the law change does not remove driver responsibility.
What Has NOT Changed
This is where many drivers misunderstand the new rules.
Even though the test requirement has been removed:
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Weight limits still apply
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Poor towing can still lead to prosecution
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Employers still have a duty of care
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Insurance requirements remain unchanged
Drivers are still legally responsible for:
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Safe coupling and uncoupling
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Load security
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Stability and control
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Correct use of mirrors
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Speed limits while towing
The government has been clear that removing the test does not reduce the expectation of competence.
Speed Limits and Rules While Towing (Still the Same)
Whether you’re in Great Britain or Northern Ireland:
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Motorways & dual carriageways: 60mph
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Single carriageways: 50mph
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Lower posted limits: unchanged
Towing mirrors are still required if your view is restricted, and trailers must be roadworthy.
Government reference:
🔗 https://www.gov.uk/speed-limits
What About Businesses and Fleet Drivers?
For businesses operating in Northern Ireland, the law change does not remove employer responsibility.
Under health and safety law, employers must ensure that:
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Drivers are competent
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Risks are assessed
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Training is provided where necessary
Allowing a driver to tow legally does not automatically mean they are trained or safe.
This is particularly relevant for:
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Construction and utilities
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Hire companies
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Agriculture
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Emergency services
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Horse transport
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Trailer-mounted equipment
Why Towing Lessons Still Matter
Although the law has changed, towing has not become easier or safer overnight.
At Towing Solutions, we regularly train drivers who:
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Are legally allowed to tow
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But have never towed before
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Or lack confidence with reversing, loading or motorway driving
Professional towing lessons help drivers:
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Understand real-world risks
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Learn correct techniques
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Reduce incidents and damage
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Improve confidence and control
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Meet employer and insurance expectations
This is especially important in Northern Ireland, where rural roads, weather conditions and agricultural traffic present additional challenges.
So, Can You Tow in Northern Ireland After Passing Your Test?
Yes — but with responsibility.
The new rules allow most drivers to tow legally, but:
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Legal entitlement ≠ competence
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The responsibility remains with the driver
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Training is still strongly recommended
Learn to Tow Safely and Confidently
At Towing Solutions, we deliver professional towing lessons for:
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New drivers
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Experienced drivers needing refresher training
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Businesses and fleets
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Caravan, trailer and horsebox owners
Training is practical, structured and delivered by experienced instructors who understand both legal requirements and real-world towing challenges.
👉 View towing lessons and training:
https://www.towing-solutions.co.uk
Final Thoughts
The changes to driving licence rules in Northern Ireland have made towing more accessible — but not less serious.
Understanding the law is the first step.
Learning to tow properly is what keeps drivers, passengers and other road users safe.