Top Tips for Towing Trailers Safely and Legally in Ireland

Towing a Light Trailer – Are you legal?

Whether you’re pulling a horsebox, caravan, a boat, or garden waste, towing a trailer in Ireland comes with serious responsibilities. These expert tips ensure you stay safe and legal on Irish roads, covering everything from licence requirements to loading and speed limits.

It’s not just about hooking up and heading off — it’s about safety, legality, and confidence behind the wheel.

Here are a few TOP TIPS to towing trailers in Ireland:

  1. Know Your Licence

To tow in Ireland, your driving licence category matters. With a standard Category B licence, you can tow small trailers up to a combined weight of 3,500kg.  For anything heavier, you’ll need a BE licence.  Also, remember to always check the towing limits for your vehicle and trailer.

  1. Check Your Equipment

Before each trip, inspect your trailer thoroughly:

  • Brakes (if over 750kg trailer MAM)
  • All Lights and indicators are working properly
  • Tyres (no cracks or bulges, proper tread depth)
  • Coupling devices and breakaway cables
  • Mirrors — ensure wide-angle visibility

  1. Distribute Load Correctly

Load heavy items over the axle and keep weight low.  Too much weight at the rear causes trailer sway and imbalance.  Too much at the front overloads your vehicle and tow bar/hitch. Aim for balanced, secure, and evenly distributed loads.

  1. Drive Differently

Towing affects how your car handles on the road. Take wider turns, allow longer stopping distances, and don’t exceed the speed limit 80 km/h — even on motorways. Watch for strong crosswinds and be extra cautious on hills or uneven roads.

 

  1. Practice Makes Perfect

If you’re new to towing, practice in a quiet area.  Reversing with a trailer can feel unnatural, so take your time and use your mirrors. Don’t forget to check those blind spots by looking over both shoulders.  Better yet, take a towing course with an Approved Driving Instructor.

Safe towing of trailers isn’t just legal — it’s essential. With the right checks, mindset, and licence, you can tow confidently across Ireland’s roads.