Trailer license?

MakersMark

Hi folks,

Can anyone who has a BE trailer licence describe the process please?

Are lessons mandatory?

What does the theory test cover?

Thanks

E36Ross

No need to do a theory test, Basically same as a normal B driving test.

You get asked a few signs, rules of the road questions. Then under the bonnet checks, Then a few interior questions (How do you demist the windows for example)

Explain how to unhitch the trailer, Then just drive.... Theres a reverse around a corner and a hill start.

No mandatory lessons needed.

Del2005

You also need to make sure that your trailer meets the criteria for the test. IIRC it has to a box trailer and has to be loaded, I can't find the exact details though.

Varik

You only need to do a theory test if you've never done one before for category.

The first theory test was a joint one for Car & bike and then they split those, so if you've either done the first test or the car one it'll just let you apply for leaners straight away and same rules apply as a normal learner driver apply even with a B licenses already. L plate on and someone with the proper license 2+ years sitting with you.

If you've got the public service card you can apply online, would advice getting the PSC instead if you don't have one as it's a meetingn either way. You'd either have to go to welfare office or NDLS centre for face to face either way.

RosieJoe

I recently went through this process. I needed to do a Theory Test for the BE permit as I had not done the Car Theory Test before. Theory test covers all things B related, everything from signs to parking, to drink limits etc. Lessons are not mandatory. I used my own horsebox to do the test. Needed L plates on the car and one on the back of the trailer. Trailer had to be loaded with 30 cement blocks as part of the test. If you are using an instructor's trailer and car you will need to set aside a few hundred € for pre-test lessons and hiring the equipment on the day.

Test itself is a full test based on your driving ability, so try to overcome any bad habits formed over the years. Hardest part that you will not usually encounter is reversing the trailer around a corner.

zg3409

Beware too the trailer needs to have same reg as vehicle, working lights etc.

My tester noted car reg then checked trailer reg. He also checked all trailer lights.

Trailer may need to be fairly new and have weight markings etc.

Note you can tow certain trailers without a special trailer licence. The rules are complicated but it depends on weight of car and trailer, not general things like 2 axle trailer. So depending on towing car and trailer you may be exempt.

https://www.rsa.ie/road-safety/road-users/professional-drivers/vehicle-safety-legislation/light-trailers/introduction

timple23

Is the reversing around the corner a blindside or nearside reverse?

Wishbone Ash

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/119697030#Comment_119697030

Generally a nearside reverse but they can ask you to do an off side reverse.

(Apologies for being pedantic but it's not a reverse around a corner as such, it's a reverse from a major road into a minor road).

zg3409

Depends on the test centre. Some may do it at the centre or sometimes usually at specific streets. Local driving instructors will know but trailers might require somewhere unusual.