Do I Need a License to Tow?
Whether Towing A Trailer Work for moving goods, going on the road trip in your caravan or having some fun of boating you need to be aware about certain requirements and legislations that apply when it comes to legality. One of the frequently asked questions is whether or not you require a specific license in order to tow a trailer. Here are the requirements needed and rules you must know to make sure you tow safely, legally.
License Requirements for Towing A Trailer Work
Below, we Towing A Trailer Work lists some specific examples of waste you can carry with a standard car license (Class C).
Most of the time you can tow a normal trailer in Australia with just your car license (Class C). But there are weight allowances depending on the trailer’s own weight and gross combined mass.
Light Trailers
– up to 750 kg GTM: You can tow a trailer that has an ATM of not greater than its minimum TYWT + the maximum capacity specified by these guidelines, or (more simplistically) you are OK so long as the gross laden weight tare is equal to less home-made cheese. That includes light trailers or campers
Trailers over 750 kg but not exceeding TO tonnes GVM of the towing vehicle and towed trailer must NOT exceed :4.
Heavy Trailers
When seeking to tow heavier trailers, especially those weighing in above 4.5 tonnes GCM combined, extra licensing factors come into play on top of the vehicle and trailer conditions listed here
Heavy Combination Licence (Class HC)
Heavy Trailers over 4.5 tonnes: If the GCM of your towing vehicle and trailer is more than a combined weight between 4.5 to8 tonne, you are required to have an HC License This class of licence is normally prerequisite to be able to move the sorts of large and heavy trailers or combinations often used with big caravans, boats and machinery.
Towing Laws by State
General licensing requirements are consistent across Australia, but there may be other rules and guidelines within each state. Understanding these is important to be in complete compliance.
New South Wales (NSW)
In NSW Car Towing, it applies to trailers up to 4.5 tonnes combined GVM for a standard car licence For anything heavier an HC license is needed.
Increased safety checks and equipment, like breakaway systems and load distribution for heavier trailers.
Victoria
As in NSW, you only need a standard car license if the trailer has a GVM of no more than 4.5 tonnes combined. Heavier combinations require an HC license.
Victoria also reminded drivers to make sure their vehicles and caravans or trailers are in roadworthy condition.
Queensland
Queensland complies to the national standard that allows trailers up to 4.5 tonnes combined GVM with a normal car license.
– An HC license is required for trailers that exceed this limit.
WA, SA TAS NT, and ACT
– All of these regions meet the Australian Standard, so operators in Queensland or SA would only require a normal car license for trailers under 4.5 tonnes combined GVM anyway and an HC to haul something heavier on the same class of heavy license.
◦ States and territories may have their own workplace health and safety laws, so it is a good idea to check with the local authorities.
Safety and Compliance
You cannot drive a car pulling a trailer without also having the correct entitlement to tow. Safety and compliance with the laws and rules of traffic on roads is most important.
Vehicle & Trailer Specifications
Deemed outweigh: Make sure to take a look at the towing capacity listed in your car’s owner’s manual and manufacturer-mentioned guidelines as well. It is illegal and puts everyone in danger .
– Load distribution: It would help if you distribute the load in your trailer as it tends to keep stability and control;
New Braking System: If a trailer weighs more than 750 kg, it needs an autonomous braking system.
Regular Maintenance
– DATCP photo- Inspections: Regularly inspect both the towing vehicle and trailer. Inspect your tires, lights, brakes, and connection to the hitch.
Safety Chains Make sure safety chains are properly installed and undamaged.
Driving Practices
Towing speed limits are usually lower than safe driving practice, through regular roads.
Towing speeds vary by state, with many having a cap of 100 km/h.
– Drive Safely: Leave additional room, brake early and do not make any sudden moves while towing a trailer
Conclusion
A standard car license (Class C) is usually all you need to tow in Australia providing the trailer GVM and combined GVM are under 4500kgs. If you want to tow heavier trailers, then a Heavy Combination (HC) license is required. By knowing these you will be able to tow legally and safely whether towing in hot climates or with industrial gas lines. As always, be sure to check your local laws and specifics for the regulations and specifications of your car.
You can get all the benefits of towing with none of the legal or safety issues if you do your homework and come prepared. Happy towing!
