What Licence Do I Need to Tow a 5th Wheel in the UK?

If you're thinking about buying a fifth wheel, one of the first questions that comes up is: “Am I actually allowed to tow one on my current driving licence?” The specific answer to that depends on two things: when you passed your test and the weight/length of your vehicle and 5th wheel combined.

We should clearly state that you do not need an HGV license to tow a 5th wheel.

Understanding UK Driving Licence Categories

In the UK, driving licences are issued with categories that dictate what vehicles and trailers you're legally allowed to drive or tow.

Here are the ones that matter for fifth wheels:

• Category BE – Combined train weight 7000Kg (truck + 5th wheel)

• Category C1E – Combined total train weight 8250Kg (truck + 5th wheel)

  
  

"The combined train weight for truck and 5th wheel must not exceed 7,500Kg (provided this does not exceed the designed train weight of the vehicle)."

Passed Your Test Before 1 January 1997?

Good news — you're automatically entitled to tow quite a lot.

Anyone who passed their car driving test before 1 January 1997 will likely have Categories BE and C1E(107) already on their licence. That means you can drive vehicles and trailers with a combined train weight of up to 8,250 kg.

Note that C1+E and C1E Are often used interchangeably, but the key difference is the code 107 restriction—check your driving license for that number.

*Maximum train weight (referred to technically as MAM) refers to the total permitted weight of the vehicle or trailer when fully loaded — including water, fuel, passengers, and all your gear.

Do You Need a C1E License Most UK trucks are rated to 6,000Kg, with uprating (a service we provide) you can increase you maximum train weight to 7,000Kg, well within the maximum limit of 8,250Kg.

Note that the majority of the UK laws relate to the load on a draw bar, rather than an articulated 5th wheel which generally carries 20% of the load on the pin.

Drive Right

Buying a fifth wheel is about freedom and fun, but it does come with responsibilities. Understanding your driving licence is one of the first steps to get right before hitting the road. Please note that the information included here may not be exhaustive or may change - check with DVLC/DVSA/DoT for the latest licensing rules.

If you’re unsure, or would like to know more, just call CCRV on 01638 515700 or checkout our FAQ.