Anyone planning to tow a caravan this summer has been warned about a potential £2,500 fine for an illegal mistake. The Labour government has issued a reminder to caravan owners who intend to travel outside the UK with a trailer or caravan.
New Registration Rules for Overseas Travel
The Department for Transport has updated its guidance on UK trailer registration for journeys abroad. Under the new regulations, motorists must register any trailer weighing over 750 kilograms before entering most European countries. Failure to comply could result in being refused entry at the border.
Since August 2025, DVLA registration has been compulsory in countries including France, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain, among others.
Fines for Towing Without Proper Mirrors
In the UK, drivers caught towing a caravan without the correct mirrors can face a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points on their licence. The government states: "The equipment you use with your trailer or caravan must meet certain safety standards or be used correctly. You can be fined up to £2,500, be banned from driving and get 3 penalty points for using a vehicle in a dangerous condition."
Safety Checks and Tow Bar Requirements
Carry out safety checks to ensure you are using the trailer and equipment legally. If you fit a tow bar to your car, it must be 'type approved', meaning it meets EU regulations and is designed for your vehicle. Type-approved tow bars have a label with an approval number or details of the vehicles for which it is approved. Cars first used before 1 August 1998 are exempt from this requirement.
View of the Road and Brake Systems
You must have an adequate view of the road behind you. Fit suitable towing mirrors if your trailer or caravan is wider than the rear of your car. You can be fined up to £1,000 and get three penalty points for towing without proper mirrors. Additionally, your trailer must have a working brake system if it weighs over 750kg when loaded.
