Irish Towing Laws Explained – Stay Legal on the Road in 2025

Irish Towing Laws Explained – Stay Legal on the Road in 2025

If you’re planning to tow a trailer in Ireland — whether it’s a horsebox, livestock trailer, or a box trailer full of tools — you’ll want to know exactly where you stand legally. Irish towing laws aren’t something you want to “wing it” on. Fines, penalty points, and even insurance issues can follow if you’re caught out.

At M O Toole Trailers, we’ve helped countless customers not only choose the right trailer but also understand the rules that go with it. Here’s your simple, straight-talking guide to staying compliant in 2025.

1. Licence Requirements in Ireland

B Licence (Standard Car Licence)

  • Lets you tow a small trailer, provided the combined weight of your vehicle and trailer doesn’t exceed 3,500kg (Maximum Authorised Mass – MAM).

  • Ideal for lighter box trailers, small utility trailers, and smaller horseboxes.

BE Licence (Car & Trailer Licence)

  • Required if the combined weight (MAM) is over 3,500kg but not more than 7,000kg.

  • Necessary for larger livestock trailers, big horseboxes, or heavily loaded flatbeds.

Tip: If you’re unsure, check your vehicle handbook and trailer plate for MAM details.

2. Understanding Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM)

MAM is the maximum weight the trailer is designed to carry, including the trailer’s own weight. Both your vehicle and trailer have their own MAM limits — and exceeding them can lead to fines, penalty points, and safety risks.

3. Speed Limits for Towing in Ireland

  • Motorways & National Roads: 80 km/h (unless otherwise stated)

  • Local & Regional Roads: Follow posted limits, but remember towing can make safe stopping distances longer.

4. Safety Equipment Requirements

Irish law requires that your trailer must have:

  • Fully functioning lights (brake, indicator, and number plate lights)

  • Braking system if MAM exceeds 750kg

  • Tyres in good condition (minimum tread depth 1.6mm)

  • Number plate matching the towing vehicle

  • Breakaway cable or safety chain on braked trailers

5. DOE Testing for Trailers

Many trailers in Ireland require periodic roadworthiness tests (DOE).

  • Commercial trailers and certain larger trailers must be tested annually.

  • A valid DOE certificate is essential for legal use on public roads.

For more on preparing for your DOE, see our blog: Preparing Your Trailer for DOE/Testing – What You Need to Know

6. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Breaking towing laws can lead to:

  • Fines of up to €2,500

  • Penalty points on your licence

  • Invalidated insurance in the event of an accident

7. How M O Toole Trailers Can Help

We don’t just sell trailers — we ensure you leave knowing exactly how to tow them legally and safely. Our team can advise on:

  • The right trailer for your licence type

  • Matching trailer weight to your vehicle’s towing capacity

  • DOE test preparation and booking

FAQs

Q: Can I tow a livestock trailer with a B licence?
Yes, if the total MAM of your vehicle and trailer is under 3,500kg. For heavier loads, you’ll need a BE licence.

Q: Do I need insurance for my trailer?
Not legally, but it’s highly recommended to cover theft or damage.

Q: How do I find my trailer’s MAM?
Check the manufacturer’s plate on the trailer chassis or your documentation.

Towing in Ireland doesn’t have to be complicated — but it does require you to know your numbers, your licence type, and the safety requirements. At M O Toole Trailers, we’ll help you find the perfect trailer and ensure you’re road legal before you leave the yard.

👉 Contact us today for advice on trailers, towing laws, and compliance in Ireland.

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