Government Urges Drivers To Undertake New Trailer Safety Training
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is calling on drivers who are planning to tow a trailer or caravan to undertake a new training course.
Rules surrounding towing a trailer or caravan changed at the end of 2021, with specific changes depending on when you passed your driving test...
- If you passed your car driving test from 1st January 1997 onwards, you’re now allowed to tow trailers up to 3,500kg MAM.
The DVLA will update your driving licence record accordingly, and category BE will be added when you get a new photocard driving licence.
- If you passed your car driving test BEFORE 1 January 1997, then you’re not affected by ANY of the changes.
CLICK HERE to read the full story on the government's new trailer driver safety programme
The good news is that any fleet operators that require staff to tow trailers as part of their role CAN continue with drivers who passed their test from 1997 onwards as usual.
However, some drivers are now being urged to take the test to help improve safety on the road.
The government has partnered approved organisations to run the tests, and the scheme has been developed with the help of fleet owners.
Towing safely is a key issue when it comes to road safety, and given the increase in congestion and dangerous driving incidents being reported in recent years, it’s important that additional training is being offered.
Does your fleet require towing in any part of your drivers’ roles? If so, will you be encouraging additional training for your drivers? Let us know in the comments below.
