This unit covers everything you need to know about towing a trailer or caravan with your Category B vehicle in the Netherlands. You'll learn the legal weight limits, essential equipment like breakaway cables, and the specific rules for carrying loads. Mastering these topics is crucial for both passing your theory exam and ensuring safe driving practices on Dutch roads.
Browse all lessons that make up Towing, Trailers, and Loads. Each lesson focuses on specific topics, learning objectives, and core concepts, helping you build essential knowledge and follow a clear, structured progression toward your study goals in the Netherlands.
This lesson explains the specific regulations determining what kind of trailer you can legally tow with a Category B license. You will learn the two main rules: you can always tow a trailer with a Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) of up to 750 kg, or you can tow a heavier trailer provided the combined MAM of the car and trailer does not exceed 3,500 kg. The content clarifies how to find these weights on the vehicle's registration documents and explains when a higher license category like BE is required.
This lesson focuses on the practical and legal requirements for attaching a trailer. You will learn the correct procedure for hooking up the trailer hitch and connecting the electrical cable for the lights and indicators. The curriculum details the mandatory safety features, such as a breakaway cable for braked trailers or a secondary coupling for unbraked trailers. It also explains the rules for trailer license plates: a trailer up to 750 kg must display a white plate with the towing vehicle's registration number.
This lesson covers the critical importance of properly securing any load to prevent it from shifting or falling off. You will learn about using nets, straps, and sheets to secure goods effectively. The content also explains the rules for loads that project from the vehicle or trailer, including the specific dimensions that require a red and white striped marker board for visibility. Proper load distribution is also discussed, as it significantly affects the stability and handling of the vehicle and trailer combination.
This lesson provides essential techniques for driving safely while towing. You will learn how the added weight increases your braking distance and how the extra length requires you to take wider turns. The curriculum addresses the challenging maneuver of reversing with a trailer and provides tips on how to control it. It also explains the phenomenon of 'snaking' or trailer sway, its causes (like crosswinds or improper loading), and how to correct it by gently reducing speed.
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With a standard Category B license, you can tow a trailer with a maximum authorized mass (MAM) of up to 750 kg. If the trailer's MAM is over 750 kg, the combined mass of the towing vehicle and the trailer must not exceed 3,500 kg. For heavier combinations, you may need a Category B+E license.
Yes, a breakaway cable is legally required for braked trailers weighing over 750 kg MAM, and it is strongly recommended for all trailers. Its purpose is to activate the trailer's brakes if it accidentally detaches from the towing vehicle, preventing it from becoming a runaway hazard.
Towing a trailer significantly increases your vehicle's length, weight, and braking distance. You must drive more cautiously, increase your following distance, brake earlier, take wider turns, and be aware of the trailer's movement. Expect longer acceleration times and reduced maneuverability, especially in windy conditions.
Loads must be secured properly to prevent them from shifting, falling off, or obstructing your view or lights. Use appropriate straps, nets, or coverings. The load should be distributed evenly, with the heaviest items placed over the trailer's axle. Ensure the load does not exceed the trailer's weight capacity and that it complies with any height or width regulations.
Yes, trailers must have functioning rear lights, brake lights, and indicator lights that match those of the towing vehicle. Depending on the trailer's size and load, additional lights like side marker lights and license plate lights may be required. Always check that all lights are working before setting off.
You can tow a caravan with a Category B license as long as the combined authorized mass of your car and caravan does not exceed 3,500 kg. If the combined mass is greater, or if the caravan's authorized mass exceeds 750 kg and the combined mass exceeds 3,500 kg, you will need a B+E license.
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Lessons in Towing, Trailers, and Loads
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This unit is essential for all Category B license candidates in the Netherlands who plan to tow a trailer, caravan, or other load. It's particularly important for drivers who may encounter towing situations as part of their daily lives or for exam retakers who need to strengthen their knowledge in this specific area.
See how Dutch Driving Theory B is structured, with key topics, learning objectives, and a step-by-step path for theory preparation in the Netherlands.
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