What Does the UK Trailer Test Involve?

The HGV Training Centre offers trailer training for non-commercial drivers who tow utility trailers, caravans and horsebox trailers. We recommend this training even if an advanced licence is not necessary. Why? Because towing a trailer is remarkably different than driving a car by itself. We see evidence of this every spring, as inexperienced car drivers cause accidents by towing trailers improperly.

Upon completion of our training, the student will take the trailer test at an approved testing facility. Officially, the test is known as the ‘car and trailer practical test’. It is administered by a DVLA certified tester at a testing facility that could be located anywhere in the UK. While we are not approved to conduct the tests, we do send instructors with our students on the day of the test.

What to Expect

The UK trailer test involves three components, the first being a vision test to ensure you can see properly. The second component is a series of five questions designed to test your knowledge of vehicle safety. This part of the test is directly related to demonstrating your ability to carry out a proper safety check on your tow vehicle and trailer.

The third component tests your actual driving skills. The tester will expose you to a variety of road and traffic conditions that could include dual carriageways and motorways. Furthermore, you will be required to demonstrate essential skills such as coupling and decoupling, braking and stopping, and manoeuvring your tow vehicle and trailer in tight spaces. The independent driving portion of the test will take at least 10 minutes; it could take longer depending on your skill level.

Before you depart for the testing site, be aware of what will be required upon your arrival:

• Your driving licence – From July of this year you will no longer need to provide the paper portion of your licence; the digital licence document is all that will be required.

• A qualifying car – Your tow vehicle must be fitted with the proper mirrors, a device to demonstrate the trailer’s lights are working properly, and a braking system and couplings suitable to handle the weight of your trailer.

• A qualifying trailer – Your trailer must have a minimum weight of 800 kg, a minimum load capacity of 600 kg and a maximum authorised mass of at least 1 tonne.

The DVLA is very strict about these requirements. If you arrive at the testing facility without your documents or a qualifying car or trailer, you will be disqualified from taking the test and you will lose your booking fee. Your instructor from the HGV Training Centre can go through these requirements to ensure that everything is in order.

Spring is the best time for new trailer owners to undergo proper training in preparation for the trailer test. The training we provide increases your chances of passing the test by giving you the confidence and the knowledge you need to satisfy your tester.

Sources:

GOV.UK – https://www.gov.uk/car-trailer-driving-test