Touring Caravan Laws in the UK: The Essential Guide

Nov 14, 2025

Thinking of hitting the open road with your caravan awning flapping in the breeze? 🚐✨ Here’s the short answer: Yes, touring caravans have laws—and yes, most do have brakes! From towing limits to campsite rules, this guide keeps your adventures legal, safe, and stress-free. Keep reading before you hitch up!

Understanding UK Towing Licence and Maximum Weight Laws

Driving Licence Requirements: The Post-2021 Rules

Rules for Drivers Who Passed Before 1st January 1997 (The 8,250kg MAM Entitlement)

If you passed your driving test before 1 January 1997, your licence likely includes the B+E entitlement, allowing you to tow a combined weight of up to 8,250kg MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass).

This gives you far more flexibility when handling larger or heavier caravans. Always double-check your paper or photocard licence for these categories.

Grey and black full caravan awning with arched windows and white curtains attached to a white caravan on a grassy field under a cloudy sky.

Rules for Drivers Who Passed After 1st January 1997 (The Automatic 3,500kg MAM Allowance)

If you passed after 1 January 1997, you can drive a car or van up to 3,500kg MAM while towing a trailer up to 750kg MAM. If your trailer or caravan exceeds that weight, the total combined weight must not go over 3,500kg MAM. For heavier caravans, you’ll need to obtain a B+E licence by passing a specialist towing test.

How to Check Your Current Entitlements (DVLA Licence Categories)

You can easily check your entitlements by looking at the back of your licence. Category B allows towing within the standard weight limits, while B+E covers heavier setups. The DVLA website provides a full breakdown of what each category means and how to upgrade if necessary.

Calculating Legal Caravan and Car Weight Limits

Defining Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) and MTPLM

The Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) is the total allowed weight of your caravan, including everything loaded inside. Similarly, the MTPLM (Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass) is the figure set by the manufacturer.

Exceeding these limits can make towing unsafe and could lead to penalties or voided insurance.

How to Calculate Your Car's Maximum Towing Capacity (Gross Train Weight minus Gross Vehicle Weight)

To find your vehicle’s towing capacity, subtract the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) from the Gross Train Weight (GTW). You’ll find both listed on your car’s VIN plate or in the owner’s handbook.

Always make sure your caravan’s MAM doesn’t exceed this figure to stay compliant and safe on the road.

The 85% Rule: Safety Guideline vs. Legal Requirement

The 85% rule isn’t law, but it’s a well-known safety guideline. It suggests your caravan’s loaded weight should not exceed 85% of your car’s kerb weight.

Following this rule helps maintain stability, especially for drivers new to towing.

On-Road Regulations: Speed Limits, Lanes, and Required Equipment

UK Road Speed Limits for Caravans

Motorways and Dual Carriageways (The 60 mph Maximum)

When towing a caravan on motorways or dual carriageways, the speed limit is 60 mph—even if cars are permitted to go faster. This lower limit helps reduce swaying and keeps the setup more stable at higher speeds.

Single Carriageways (The 50 mph Maximum)

On single carriageways, you must not exceed 50 mph. Always allow extra space for braking, as caravans require longer stopping distances.

Adhering to Local and Built-up Area Limits (30 mph/Signed Limits)

In built-up areas, follow the posted speed signs, typically 30 mph or lower. Be especially cautious when navigating narrow streets or residential zones.

Grey and black inflatable caravan awning with no front panels attached to a white caravan on a grassy field surrounded by tall trees.

Mandatory Towing Equipment and Highway Code Rules

Legal Requirement for Towing Mirrors (When they are required and the penalty for non-compliance)

If your caravan is wider than your vehicle’s rear view, towing mirrors are a legal requirement. Failure to fit them can result in a fine of up to £1,000 and three penalty points.

Breakaway Cable and Secondary Coupling (Requirements for braked vs. unbraked caravans)

Caravans weighing more than 750kg MTPLM must be fitted with their own braking system and a breakaway cable. This system activates the caravan’s brakes if it detaches from the towing vehicle. For lighter, unbraked caravans, a secondary coupling is required to keep them safely attached.

Number Plate and Lighting Compliance (Must match the car and be fully functional)

Your caravan’s number plate must display the same registration number as your car. All lights and indicators must be fully functional and clearly visible at all times.

Highway Code Restriction: No Use of the Outside Lane

When towing, you are not allowed to use the outside lane of a three-lane motorway unless directed by signs. Stay in the left or middle lanes to keep traffic flowing safely.

The Law on Carrying Passengers While Towing (Illegal Restriction)

Passengers cannot travel inside a caravan while it’s being towed. It’s both unsafe and illegal, as caravans lack the necessary restraints for protection in an emergency.

Essential Legal Compliance: Registration, MOT, and Storage

Tax, MOT, and Ownership Legalities

Do Touring Caravans Require an MOT or Road Tax?

Touring caravans don’t require an MOT or road tax.

However, they must remain roadworthy.

You should regularly check tyres, brakes, and lights to avoid fines or accidents.

Understanding CRiS Registration (Central Registration & Identification Scheme)

The CRiS (Central Registration & Identification Scheme) is similar to a logbook system for caravans.

While not compulsory, it provides proof of ownership and helps recover stolen caravans.

Registration also adds value when selling or insuring your caravan.

Parking and Storing Your Caravan on Public/Private Land

Parking a Caravan on a Public Road (Obstruction and Lighting Rules)

You may park your caravan on a public road, but it must not cause obstruction. At night, ensure it is lit and parked facing the same direction as traffic. Always follow local regulations and avoid restricted zones.

Using a Caravan as a Permanent Dwelling (Planning Permission Implications)

Living permanently in a touring caravan generally requires planning permission. Temporary stays on private property are often fine, but it’s best to confirm with your local council. Ignoring these rules can lead to fines or enforced removal.

Grey and white curved caravan awning with open front showing chairs and a dining table setup on a grassy field with hills and blue sky in the background.

Understanding touring caravan laws in the UK may feel daunting, but it’s the key to safe and worry-free travel. From driving licence categories and weight limits to insurance, maintenance, and caravan awnings, following the rules keeps your adventures enjoyable.

Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a long-term tour, knowing these laws means you can relax and make the most of your trip.

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