A good trailer is beneficial for transportation, storage, and recreational purposes. Understanding and obtaining the right license is essential before you hit the road. Proper licensing is not only part of legal compliance, but also ensures safety for you and others on the road. So, do you need a special license to tow a trailer?
To answer the question, ‘Do you need a special license to tow a trailer?’ keep reading.
Weight of the Trailer
The weight of your trailer is a crucial part of determining the type of license you need. A category D standard driver’s license allows you to tow a trailer of up to 7,716 lb or 3.5 tons in the United States. If your trailer exceeds the weight limit, you need to acquire a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to tow it. You also need additional tests to ensure proper handling of heavier trailers.
Licenses in Different Regions
The license requirements for trailers are different in every location. Drivers should engage with the relevant department to ensure compliance with the regulations. If you don’t comply with the law, you face possible penalties, jail time, or license revocation. Here are the license requirements in different regions:
United States
The license requirements in the US are different in each state, but the common ones include:
Standard Driver’s License- a category B license is the common requirement for towing a trailer.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)- to determine whether you need a CDL you have to understand the weight measurement which is measured depending on the gross vehicle weight (GVW), gross vehicle rating (GVWR), gross combination weight (GCW) and gross combination weight rating (GCWR). GVW is simply the weight of your trailer plus passengers and cargo.
GVWR is the weight that the trailer can carry depending on the manufacturer. A CDL is required when towing a GCW and GCWR of at least 26,000 lb. If your trailer has a GVW or GVWR of over 10,000 pounds you also need a CDL. There are different categories of CDL which are:
- Class A: applies to a GCWR trailer that’s above 26,0001 lb and a GVWR that’s above 10,001 pounds
- Class B: applies to a GCWR trailer that’s above 26,001 lb and a GVWR trailer less than 10,000 pounds
- Class C: applies to all trailers transporting sensitive or hazardous cargo, or 16 or more passengers
Endorsements- besides the CDL license, some states in the US may require endorsement depending on the type of trailer.
Canada
The licensing regulations in Canada vary depending on the province you’re in. The common license categories are:
- Class G: applies to trailers of up to 4,600 kg
- Class A: applies to heavier trailers, including trailers used for commercial purposes
European Union
The European Union has a standard license but different countries have different licensing requirements. The common ones include:
- Category B: the standard Driver’s License allows you to tow a trailer weighing 750 kg
- Category BE: a BE license is endorsed when you are towing a trailer of up to 3,500 kg
Australia
Australia has different licensing regulations depending on each state but here are the common ones:
- Class C: applies to trailers weighing up to 4,500 kg
- Heavy vehicle licenses: there are different licenses when towing heavier trailers which include LR, MR, HR, HC, and MC licenses.
Requirements for Towing Licenses
- Driving experience
Most states and countries require additional tests or training to acquire a license for towing a trailer. The general requirements are:
- Age: you must be at least 18 years old. However, some countries and states require additional years of experience and hold a Category B driver’s license
- Clean driving record: you must have a clean driving record. Multiple traffic offenses may disqualify you from acquiring a license to tow a trailer
- Mandatory training: in states that don’t accept endorsement, you must undergo mandatory training and pass the test to acquire the relevant license
2. Trailer use
You may need a special license depending on the use of the trailer. Commercial trailers require CDL while trailers used for recreational purposes may require endorsement
3. Towing vehicle
There are special requirements for towing vehicles, which also influence licensing requirements.
Towing Rules
Now that you’re aware of the licenses you need to tow a trailer, let’s list some basic tips for towing.
- Ensure that your vehicle is fit for towing
- Know the maximum width and length of both the trailer and vehicle
- Inspect all your tires
- Use the right towing bars
- Adhere to the weight limits provided by the manufacturer
- Ensure proper weight distribution
- Get proper towing mirrors to optimize visibility
- Have the correct lighting to ensure maximum safety on the road
- Adhere to the speed regulations of the road you are using
- Have a working break system especially when towing a trailer weighing over 1,653 lb
- Always keep your eyes on the road
- Adhere to basic road etiquette
Visit Millennium Trailers Today for Your Towing Needs
Towing a trailer may not be as easy as it appears. Trusting your towing needs and information with Millennium Trailers is easy. We provide information on adhering to the licensing requirements, weight limits and towing rules to ensure you have a safe and legal journey.
We guide you through licensing rules and regulations that vary depending on the region. We service discerning towers and you can trust that we give you a quality buying experience.
We’ve built thousands of custom trailers loved by our customers. We even deliver your product to you. With many financing options available, come see us or call us today to experience the Millennium difference.
Bibliography
https://www.transportation.gov/
https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/driving-and-transport/licences/licence-details/driver-s-licence-classes
