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This guide summarises Dutch theory rules for trailers & loads: which licence you need (B / code 96 / BE), how breakaway systems work, and how to load for stability (especially noseweight).
Key rules in 60 seconds
Which licence do you need?
- B: trailer up to 750 kg (MAM), or >750 kg if car + trailer ≤ 3500 kg (MAM).
- B+ (code 96): car + trailer ≤ 4250 kg (MAM).
- BE: trailer up to 3500 kg (MAM).
MAM = maximum permitted mass = empty weight + maximum payload.
Tow bar (tow hitch)
- Must be securely mounted and roadworthy.
- Must not obstruct the view of the number plate.
- Use the correct coupling for the trailer/caravan or bike rack.
Breakaway cable vs secondary coupling
- Never use both at the same time (they can work against each other).
- Secondary coupling: for (certain) unbraked/light trailers; keeps trailer connected if it detaches.
- Breakaway cable: for braked/heavier trailers; activates the trailer brakes if it detaches.
Noseweight = stability
- Noseweight is the vertical pressure the drawbar puts on the towbar.
- Too high = overload rear axle/coupling. Too low/negative = instability (sway).
- Best practice: aim close to the max allowed, but never exceed car towbar/coupling limits.
Detailed guide
Understanding the weights (MAM)
In Dutch theory, towing rules use the trailer’s and car’s maximum permitted mass (MAM): empty weight + maximum payload. Example: if the trailer is 150 kg empty and may carry 600 kg, its MAM is 750 kg.
Licence rules (B / code 96 / BE)
- Licence B:
- Tow a trailer up to 750 kg MAM.
- Tow a trailer over 750 kg only if car + trailer MAM ≤ 3500 kg.
- B+ (code 96): tow any trailer if car + trailer MAM ≤ 4250 kg.
- BE: tow a trailer up to 3500 kg MAM.
Examples (from theory style):
• Car 3000 kg + trailer 850 kg → too high for B → you need code 96 (if within 4250).
• Car 2500 kg + trailer 2000 kg → you need BE.
• Car 3000 kg + trailer 850 kg → too high for B → you need code 96 (if within 4250).
• Car 2500 kg + trailer 2000 kg → you need BE.
Tow bar: basic requirements
- A tow bar must be firmly mounted and suitable for the trailer’s category.
- It may not block the number plate visibility.
Secondary coupling (for certain light/unbraked trailers)
- A secondary coupling is an extra steel cable connection so the trailer stays attached if the hitch fails.
- It is permitted only for trailers with a maximum permitted mass of up to 1500 kg.
- An unbraked trailer must have a secondary coupling.
Breakaway brake system (for braked/heavier trailers)
- If a braked trailer detaches, a breakaway system applies the trailer brakes automatically.
- A breakaway cable is mandatory for trailers with MAM of more than 1500 kg.
How to attach the breakaway cable (important detail)
- Attach it directly to the towing vehicle or to the dedicated attachment point on the tow bar.
- Do not attach it to the neck/head of the tow bar (if the hitch head fails, the brake may not activate).
Noseweight: what it is and why it matters
- Noseweight = the vertical pressure with which the trailer drawbar presses on the towbar.
- Load too far forward → noseweight too high (overloads rear axle/coupling).
- Load too far back → noseweight too low or negative → trailer becomes unstable and can start swaying.
- The best balance is usually close to the maximum allowed noseweight, within limits for both: car towbar and trailer coupling.
Loading tips (stability + safety)
- Keep the load low and centred over the axle(s).
- Secure cargo so it cannot shift during braking or swerving.
- Check that the load does not protrude beyond allowed limits.
- Do a final “walk-around”: coupling locked, lights working, cable/coupling correct, load secured.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using the wrong licence category for the combination’s MAM (B vs code 96 vs BE).
- Using breakaway cable and secondary coupling together.
- Attaching the breakaway cable to the hitch head instead of the proper attachment point.
- Loading too far back (low/negative noseweight → sway) or too far forward (overload).
- Not securing the load properly (shifting load changes handling and can cause loss of control).
FAQ
What licence do you need for a trailer?
It depends on maximum permitted masses and the combination limit (B, code 96, or BE).
It depends on maximum permitted masses and the combination limit (B, code 96, or BE).
What is noseweight?
The vertical pressure of the drawbar on the towbar; too high or too low reduces safety and stability.
The vertical pressure of the drawbar on the towbar; too high or too low reduces safety and stability.
How do you load a trailer safely?
Keep load low/centred, secure it, and aim for noseweight close to (but not above) the allowed maximum.
Keep load low/centred, secure it, and aim for noseweight close to (but not above) the allowed maximum.
Does towing change your speed limits?
Yes. Vehicles towing trailers often have lower maximum speeds depending on the road and vehicle category.
Yes. Vehicles towing trailers often have lower maximum speeds depending on the road and vehicle category.
Relevant Dutch law (high-level references)
- RVV 1990 & WVW 1994: general rules and duty of care (safe coupling, safe loading, no danger/hindrance).
- Vehicle construction/approval rules (RDW-type technical requirements) are commonly tested as practical theory knowledge.
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