What are the main legal points to check before taking to the road with your boat behind your car?
Driver's license
Your driver's license depends on the gross vehicle weight of your trailer. If the trailer's GVW is less than or equal to 750 kg, a B licence is sufficient. If the trailer's GVW is greater than 750 kg, and the sum of the GVW of the vehicle and the trailer is less than or equal to 3,500 kg, a B license is also sufficient. If the sum of the GVWRs of the vehicle and trailer is between 3,500 and 4,250 kg, either a BE license or a B license with B96 additional training is required. If the total GVW of the vehicle and trailer exceeds 4,250 kg, you need a BE license. Read the full story.
The vehicle registration document
If the trailer has a GVW of less than 500 kg, it must be fitted with a license plate identical to that on the towing vehicle. This plate can be removable. However, a vehicle registration document (carte grise) is compulsory for all trailers with a GVW of over 500 kg. It must be requested within 15 days of purchase from ANTS or an authorized dealer. The trailer must have a different registration number from that of the towing vehicle.
Insurance
A trailer weighing less than 750 kg is generally covered by the towing vehicle's insurance, but it's advisable to check with your insurer. Trailer insurance is compulsory for all trailers weighing over 750 kg. It must be taken out with your insurer, who will issue you with a specific certificate.
Technical inspection
Roadworthiness tests are not compulsory for trailers up to 3500 kg GVW. However, trailers with a higher GVWR must be inspected every two years at an authorized center. Trailers must have a certificate of inspection affixed to their license plate.
Trailer dimensions
The trailer must comply with the size limits laid down in the Highway Code. The maximum authorized width for a trailer is 2.55 meters. The maximum authorized length for a vehicle-trailer combination is 18 meters. The maximum height authorized for a trailer is 4 meters. If your boat exceeds these limits, it is necessary to obtain an individual authorization for exceptional transport of 1st category issued by the prefect of the département of departure. The actual weight of the boat must not exceed the gross vehicle weight of the trailer, nor the gross vehicle weight of the towing vehicle. Read the full story.
The braking system
A braking system is compulsory for all trailers over 750 kg GVW. It must be regularly maintained and checked before each departure.
