Trailer Plates Now Required for Some Non-Commercial Use Abroad

The DVLA has updated its guidance to clarify that non-commercial trailers — including caravans, horseboxes, and leisure trailers — should be registered when travelling abroad if they exceed 750kg gross weight. While UK law does not mandate registration, most European countries do, and enforcement action may be taken if trailers are not properly registered and plated.

Key Implications for Motor Traders

This update presents a clear opportunity for suppliers to support a broader customer base. Motor traders, factors, and accessory retailers can now supply trailer plates not only for commercial use but also for non-commercial applications. BNMA members can supply traders with:

• Components for making up plates*
• Made-up plates: Ready for immediate use

*To access the print template for this, contact your supplier to request it.

Implementation Timeline

The guidance was updated on 29 August 2025. No formal start date has been issued, but BNMA advises members to treat this as effective immediately to ensure customers are compliant when travelling abroad.

Find out more

For further guidance or technical support, BNMA members are encouraged to contact their supplier or reach out to the BNMA team directly.

Alternatively visit the gov.uk page.