What is Trailer Training?
Trailer training is also known as the B+E category (More information can be found here). At Smart Learner we offer trailer training from DVSA Approved Driving Instructors to companies and/or individuals who require the B+E category adding to their licence. We like to make sure that passing with us is affordable and quick while ensuring you are confident and safe on the road once you pass.
If you took your car (Category B) test after 19 January 2013 you can tow small trailers weighing no more than 750kg and a trailer over 750kg as long as the combined weight of the trailer and towing car or van is no more than 3.5 tonnes MAM or maximum authorised mass which is the limit on how much the vehicle can weigh when it’s loaded.
If you passed your car driving test between 1 January 1997 and 18 January 2013 you can drive a car or van up to 3.5 tonnes MAM towing a trailer of up to 750kg MAM. You can also tow a trailer over 750kg MAM as long as the combined MAM of the trailer and towing vehicle is no more than 3.5 tonnes.
If you passed your car test before 1 January 1997 you’re usually allowed to drive a vehicle and trailer combination up to 8.25 tonnes MAM.
If you want to tow a trailer of a combined maximum weight (i.e. that of car, trailer, horses, tack and water) of between 3.5 tonnes and 8.25 tonnes, and you passed your car test after 1 January 1997 you’ll need to take the trailer test to get Category E on your licence.
It gives you the B+E entitlement, enabling you to tow a trailer up to a combined maximum weight of 8.25 tonnes. Category B allows a maximum of 3.5 tonnes, which is insufficient for most horse trailers.
The test costs from £115.
The cost of training varies around the country and according to how many hours you need — most packages involve two to three days of training with the test on the final day.
The trailer needs to be a certain weight for the test (the trailer must carry at least 600kg and the combined weight of the trailer and load must be at least 800kg), so it’s advisable to use your instructor’s car and trailer.
That varies with ability and experience. With SmartLearner we strive to make sure we get pupils up to pass standard as safely and quickly as possible. We ensure that we teach you everything you need to know from how to uncouple and recouple your trailer to the dreaded reversing manoeuvre. We also provide a trailer and car for your test.
You’ll be asked vehicle safety questions, to carry out a safety check on the trailer, and to pass the registration plate reading eyesight test.
You’ll then be asked to reverse the car and trailer into a loading bay marked out with cones.
You’ll be asked to uncouple and recouple your trailer and car.
Out on the road, you’ll drive on a variety of roads, including a 10-minute independent drive, and be asked to pull in and away again safely.
You’re allowed up to 15 minor and no major faults.
The advised number of hours according to the DVLA are 12-15 Hours. If you’re already experienced in towing a trailer we advise the 5-hour package as a refresher.
The blocks are non-refundable.
We currently teach all across the West Midlands. To find out if we cover your area by calling us on today on 0800 118 2001.
The vehicle that you use our car the model may vary depending on location. It is possible to use your own vehicle, and this can be negotiated with the instructor.
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