Can you tow a horse trailer on a car licence?

Whether you’re looking to transport your horse for a show, to take it to the vet, or simply because you want to go for a ride somewhere different, a horse trailer is vital for any horse or pony owner. 

But can you tow a horse trailer on a car licence? We examine the rules.

Can I tow a horse trailer using my car licence?

When towing a horse trailer, the licence requirement will depend on the type of vehicle you will be using to tow. There are a number of licences pertaining to the type of vehicle and trailer being used and its size and weight.

Simply put, you will need to gain extra licences in order to tow a horse trailer if you are looking to tow anything above 3,500kg. If you’ve passed your driving test since January 1997, you may tow a trailer with a Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) not exceeding 750kg. If you do pull a trailer with a MAM of over 750kg you must ensure the actual weight of the vehicle and trailer does not exceed 3,500kg and the actual weight of the trailer may not exceed the unladen weight of the drawing vehicle – so your trailer cannot be heavier than the vehicle towing it.

Some trailers will exceed the weight limit from what you are covered by with your UK driving licence, and therefore you will need to gain extra licences to move your horse/horses around. 

If you passed your driving licence before January 1 1997, you have the right to drive C1+E with a ‘107’ restriction. This limits the actual weight of the combination of both towing vehicle and trailer to 8,250 kg. This is normally ample for towing any trailer, or even a horsebox. But you’ll still need to check that your vehicle is powerful enough to safely tow.

If you’re unsure as to whether your licence allows you to pull a horsebox then check with the DVLA.

What licence do I need to tow a horse trailer?

If you do not fall into the above categories regarding the weight limit, then you will need to pass a test and gain a B+E licence, this will allow you tow a trailer with a MAM of up to 3,500kg.

The B+E course will take around three days to complete. Getting to grips with how wide to take corners/turns will be the hardest part of the course as your load will be wider than what you may have experienced before when driving. You will also learn how to correctly attach and detach the trailer, as well as maintenance tips. 

After the course you will be able to book your exam to take your test.

What licence do I need to tow multiple horses?

If you will be towing larger horses, or indeed multiple horses at the same time, you will need to obtain a different licence, as you will be exceeding the weight limit of your B+E licence. 

If you are starting from scratch you will need a category ‘C1’ licence. It allows you to drive vehicles up to 7,500kg and will come in handy for driving horseboxes, should you opt for this method in the future. This course will last for around a week, before you are then able to take your test.

If you are in need of towing a trailer behind a larger vehicle then you will need to obtain a  ‘C1+E’ licence.  Again, this takes about a week to complete.  

We would advise taking a full category C course, as the C1 licence comes with it. It takes slightly longer, but it’s much more efficient and gives you additional driving skills in the future.

What is Maximum Authorised Mass?

MAM is the maximum weight your vehicle can weigh when it is loaded, including the towing weight, when you have a standard car driving licence.

How do I find out my vehicle’s MAM?

Your vehicle’s MAM may be listed on your vehicle’s vehicle identification number plate, which is normally under the bonnet, or on the inside of the driver’s door. If you can’t find either, you can find this information in your vehicle’s handbook, or as a last resort, you can get in touch with the manufacturer.

Is your car big enough to tow?

Even if you think you meet the legal requirements, stop and think if your car is suitable for towing. Remember, if you’re planning to take your horse to a competition or somewhere new for a ride, you may need to drive through muddy fields. If your car is too small or doesn’t have enough power it could be dangerous.

What happens if I don’t have the right type of licence?

Failure to have the right licence and the right car or horsebox insurance can result in hefty fines, points on your licence and, in some rare cases, prison.

Best cars for towing a horse trailer

Kia Sorento

The Kia Sorento is a large SUV that is more than capable of towing a horse trailer. The all-wheel-drive system will help those who will inevitably need to drive off-road, whilst it also has a hill-start assist and a trailer stability function to make towing even safer.

With prices starting at just over £30,000, the Sorento offers genuine value for money for a large SUV.

Land Rover Discovery

This may seem like the most basic option, but there’s a reason why horse owners love to use a Land Rover Discovery when towing a trailer. In common with everything built by Land Rover, it’s as much at home on a muddy track as it is on the road.

Its four-wheel-drive system can take the Discovery to some inhospitable places. It also comes with huge storage options. The maximum towing capacity for this vehicle is 3,500kg.

Audi Q7

The Audi Q7 is a rather large SUV, but when towing a horse trailer, the last thing you want is a car that feels inferior to your trailer. This vehicle is known for its comfortable seats, impressive torque and trailer-assist system, perfect for pulling. 

You can even opt for a more environmentally friendly option such as the plug-in hybrid or the e-tron. The Maximum towing capacity: 3,500kg.

Toyota Hilux

Toyota may not be the first manufacturer you think of when discussing vehicles to tow a horse trailer, but the Hilux is perfect for these occasions. The Japanese car is known for being incredibly tough, being able to pull a trailer up hills, down muddy lanes and any other tough terrain you may come across.

The Hilux lineup ranges from single-cabs right through to highly specced double-cab trucks that offer tough looks and luxuries. The maximum towing capacity: 3,500kg.

Can I get horse trailer insurance through Adrian Flux?

A horse trailer is so much more important than regular towing equipment, especially when it’s carrying your precious animal or animals. At Adrian Flux we offer horse trailer insurance tailored to your needs and budget. 

The best deals are usually done over the phone. Call 0800 369 8590 or request a callback at a time that suits you.