Johannesburg, South Africa: Barton Insurance Brokers is urging South African motorists to ensure they are legally licensed to tow their trailers, warning that many drivers may be unaware of the licensing requirements that apply to heavier caravans, camping trailers and off-road trailers.
Following growing discussions around Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) compliance, Barton Insurance Brokers says the focus should not only be on vehicle and trailer weights, but also on whether the driver’s licence authorises the towing combination.
A standard Code B licence allows a driver to operate a light motor vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of up to 3,500 kg and tow a trailer with a GVM of up to 750 kg. Where a trailer exceeds this threshold, a Code EB licence is generally required.
Importantly, the applicable limit is determined by the trailer’s Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) as specified by the manufacturer—not the trailer’s actual weight on a particular journey.
Many popular off-road trailers, bush caravans and camping trailers have GVM ratings exceeding 750 kg, making it essential for motorists to understand the legal requirements before towing.
According to GC Swanepoel, Chief Executive Officer of Barton Insurance Brokers, motorists often focus on ensuring that their vehicle is mechanically capable of towing a trailer, while overlooking whether they are legally licensed to do so.
“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,” said Swanepoel.
Barton Insurance Brokers emphasises that legal towing compliance extends beyond the driver’s licence. Motorists should also ensure that their vehicle’s approved towing capacity is not exceeded, that the trailer complies with applicable braking requirements, and that the entire vehicle and trailer combination meets the requirements of South African road traffic legislation.
Drivers who originally held the former Code 08 licence were generally converted to Code EB when the credit-card driving licence system was introduced. However, motorists who qualified under the current licensing system are typically issued with Code B, unless they have successfully completed the additional Code EB driving test.
Swanepoel says awareness is the first step towards safer and more compliant towing.
“Our advice is simple: 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.”
Barton Insurance Brokers encourages all motorists who regularly tow trailers or caravans to familiarise themselves with the applicable licensing and towing regulations and, where necessary, seek professional advice to ensure full compliance.
About Barton Insurance Brokers
Barton Insurance Brokers is an independent South African insurance brokerage providing personal and commercial risk solutions. The company is committed to helping clients understand and manage risk through practical advice, education and tailored insurance solutions.
Media Contact
GC Swanepoel
Chief Executive Officer
Barton Insurance Brokers
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