CAR AND TRAILER TRAINING

 

Car licences held before 1 January 1997

 

All drivers who passed a car test before 1 January 1997 retain their existing entitlement to tow trailers until their licence expires. This means they are generally entitled to drive a car and trailer combination up to 4.25 tonnes MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass).

 

We can provide training for anyone who has the entitlement but would like some expert advice, particularly with regard to reversing, hitching and unhitching, etc. We normally recommend an initial 3 hour session and any further training can be considered after that.

 

Car Licences obtained after 1 January 1997

 

As a general rule drivers who passed a car test on or after 1 January 1997 are entitled to tow a trailer up to 750 kgs, however some special conditions apply, which are complicated and limited in use. Normally to tow a trailer in excess of 750 kgs drivers need to pass a Category B + E test. There is no requirement for a Theory Test for this category. The practical test is up to 1.5 hours in duration and includes a reversing exercise, hitching and unhitching.

 

We like to see candidates for an initial 2 hours of training to get an idea of the amount of training required, paying particular attention to reversing skills. Depending upon previous experience the amount of training is usually between 8 and 12 hours including the test time. This is based on one to one training - one instructor to one pupil. It is possible to have two pupils to one instructor for people coming from the same company, but this would alter the length of the course. We have our own off road training area so that you can practice reversing and general manoeuvres at your own pace.

 

If we are using your car and trailer, the training costs £30 + VAT per hour.

 

The minimum requirement for the trailer to be used on test are that it is plated to 1 tonne, of a closed box style (unable to look through or over the box with the rear view by external mirrors only), independent braking system, an audible or visual device to be fitted to confirm that the trailer indicator lights are in operation and additional external mirrors for the examiner must be supplied.

 

Alternatively, it is possible to use our vehicles and the training will cost £38 + VAT per hour.

 

The current DSA Practical Driving Test fee is £115.