UK Caravan Laws & Regulations

Do you have to register a caravan like you would a car?

No - caravans aren’t registered with the DVLA, and don’t come with a logbook or V5C. If you want to, you can register ownership of your caravan with the Caravan Registration and information Scheme (CRiS). It’s not a legal requirement, but it can be useful if your caravan is stolen.

Do caravans need to be taxed or have an MOT?

You’ll only need to pay road tax on your touring caravan if the Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) is more than 3,500kg. If it is, you’ll need to research the charges that apply.

Caravans also don’t need to have an MOT in order to be road-legal. However, it’s generally expected that the owner of a caravan takes good care of it, making sure it’s roadworthy. This includes checking the tread depth of the tyres, the operation of brakes and indicators, and that the gas and electricity of your caravan are working properly.

Can I tow a caravan with my normal driving licence?

If you got your driving licence before 1st January 1997, you can tow a car and caravan with a combined weight of up to 8,250kg.

If you got your licence on or after 1st January 1997, you can tow a car and caravan with a combined weight of up to 3,500kg without needing a special licence. If the combined weight is over 3,500kg, you’ll need to pass an additional driving test to get a B+E licence.

To find out the maximum authorised mass (MAM) of your vehicle or caravan, check the owner’s manual or the VIN plate. For caravans, the MAM is usually on a plate on the tow bar or chassis.

What’s the speed limit when I’m towing the caravan?

You’ll need to be extra cautious when you’re towing a caravan due to the additional weight and size - this can lead to handling issues and make it challenging to drive.

In built-up or residential areas, you should follow the usual speed limits (usually 20/30mph). However, when it comes to single carriageways you should not exceed 50mph, and on dual carriageways or motorways, you should not exceed 60mph. On a motorway with three or more lanes, you also cannot use the outside lane if you’re towing a caravan.

Can passengers ride in a caravan when it's being towed?

No, it is illegal and extremely dangerous to do so. It’s legal to tow a caravan with a dog or other pet inside, but it isn’t recommended - as well as being unsafe, they can become too hot, uncomfortable, and overwhelmed. In the event of an accident, there is also very little protection compared to driving with their family in the car.

Caravan equipment & penalty fines

It's really important to stay safe and legal when you’re towing a caravan. Make sure to check everything is working properly before each trip - if you don’t, you risk a fine of up to £2,500, a driving ban, and 3 points on your licence.

Parking & storage

It's technically legal to park your caravan on a public road since the Highway Code doesn't specifically mention it. However, make sure you're not causing an obstruction, park in the direction of traffic, and keep your caravan lit at night. Be aware that your local council might have restrictions, and they could ask you to move it, especially if neighbours complain. Also, check your caravan insurance policy as it might not cover the caravan while it's parked on the road and unhitched.

You don't need planning permission to store your caravan in a garden or on your driveway, but if you're thinking of using farmland or another specific location, you might need planning permission. Keeping your caravan at home is generally straightforward, but if you plan to live in it full-time, this might mean a different set of rules. When in doubt, check with your local authority.