Towing trailers and caravans in Ireland (2026)

Last reviewed: 13 October 2026

In short: A vehicle drawing a trailer or caravan may not exceed 80 km/h on any road unless a lower limit is signed. A category B licence covers a trailer of up to 750 kg, or a heavier trailer if the combination does not exceed 3,500 kg; category BE covers a trailer of up to 3,500 kg.

RuleWhat applies
Maximum speed on motorways when towingCar with a trailer or caravan; Car with a trailer or caravan80 km/h [1]
Trailer mass allowed with a car licence in any combinationCar with a trailer or caravan750 kg [1]
Heavier trailer with a category B licenceCar with a trailer or caravanA trailer over 750 kg is allowed if the combined maximum authorised mass of the towing vehicle and the trailer does not exceed 3,500 kg. A category B learner permit does not allow any trailer to be towed. [1]
Higher categories for trailers (B96, BE)Car with a trailer or caravanCategory BE: a category B vehicle with a trailer whose maximum authorised mass does not exceed 3,500 kg (combination up to 7,000 kg). It requires a specific driving test. Minimum age 17. [2]
Extra mirrors when towingCar with a trailer or caravan⚠ Not yet verified
Warning triangle or hazard deviceCar with a trailer or caravan⚠ Not yet verified

Notes

  • The Garda page states that 80 km/h is the maximum legal speed for a vehicle drawing a trailer on any road unless a lower limit sign is posted, and that this applies to 4x4s as well. The statutory provision was not read.
  • The Garda page describes category BE as covering combinations not exceeding 7,000 kg. The category BE test is a separate driving test.
  • The Garda page only advises attaching extension mirrors where necessary. The legal requirement was not read.
  • No official source read covers a warning triangle or similar device for trailers and caravans.

Sources

  1. An Garda Síochána: Roads Policing Message (Towing a Trailer/Caravan) (consulted 13 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Citizens Information Board: Categories of motor vehicles and minimum age of drivers (consulted 13 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.