Barton Insurance Brokers is urging South African motorists to check that their driving licence actually covers the trailer they’re towing. Many drivers focus on whether their vehicle can handle the load and overlook the licence requirement entirely.
A standard Code B licence covers a vehicle up to 3,500 kg and a trailer up to 750 kg. Once the trailer’s Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM), as set by the manufacturer, goes above 750 kg, a Code EB licence is required. That’s the manufacturer’s rated GVM, not what the trailer happens to weigh on a given trip. Many off-road trailers, bush caravans and camping trailers exceed 750 kg, so this catches out more drivers than you’d expect.
GC Swanepoel, CEO of Barton Insurance Brokers, said the licence question gets missed. “Many South Africans invest significantly in their tow vehicles, caravans and overlanding equipment, yet very few take the time to verify whether their driving licence matches the trailer they are towing. Compliance with road traffic legislation is not only about safety, it can also become an important consideration when an insurance claim is assessed.”
Barton also points out that compliance goes beyond the licence code. Motorists should check the vehicle’s approved towing capacity, confirm the trailer meets braking requirements, and make sure the full combination complies with South African road traffic legislation.
Drivers who held the old Code 08 licence were generally converted to Code EB when the credit-card licence system came in. Those who qualified under the current system typically hold Code B only, unless they’ve passed the additional Code EB test.
Swanepoel’s advice: “Before your next trip, check your licence code, confirm your trailer’s GVM from the manufacturer’s plate, and verify that your vehicle is approved to tow the load. Spending a few minutes checking these details could help motorists avoid unnecessary legal complications and ensure they are adequately protected.”