Can a P2 driver tow a trailer in VIC? (9 essential tips)
In this blog post, we will answer the following question: Can a P2 driver tow a trailer in VIC? We will discuss towing rules for P2 drivers and give you a few essential tips for towing safely a caravan or trailer.
Can a P2 driver tow a trailer in VIC?
Yes, a P2 driver can tow a trailer in Victoria, as long as they follow some basic rules:
- P2 drivers must display the P sticker on the front and the rear of both vehicles.
- P2 drivers must not exceed the maximum speed limit of 100kph.
- P2 drivers must not listen to music while driving and towing a trailer.
Please see the table below for more information on restrictions for towing for P-platers in Australia.
Towing rules for P-plate drivers in Australia
| Region | Rules |
| ACT | P1 and P2 platers can only tow a trailer that has a total weight of 750 kg or less. |
| New South Wales | P1 platers can only tow a trailer that has a weight of 250 kg or less. There are no towing restrictions for P2 platers. |
| Northern Territory | P1 platers can only tow a trailer that has a weight of 250 kg or less. There are no towing restrictions for P2 platers. |
| Tasmania | Both P1 and P2 can tow a trailer or another vehicle. |
| Victoria | P1 platers cannot tow a trailer or other vehicle. There are no restrictions for P2 drivers. |
| South Australian | Both P1 and P2 platers can tow a trailer in SA. |
A few tips for safe driving with a trailer
Driving a trailer or towing a car requires familiarity with the trailer regulations. Driving a towed trailer means being attentive to driving without the need for special skills.
Here are our tips for safe driving.
- Check the equipment: Before towing a trailer, it is advisable to check the vehicle as well as the various components and accessories of the trailer:
- the brakes: the brake cables, drums, linkage must be in good condition,
- trailer lights: turn signals, brake lights, signal lights must work perfectly and be cleaned regularly for better visibility,
- the tires: the tire pressure should be checked regularly and do not hesitate to replace them if they show significant wear or deformation,
- the strap: check its condition, its solidity as well as its positioning for perfect maintenance of the load,
- the trailer frame: check the condition of the components and accessories and ensure that they are properly secured
- Safety: a braking system adapted to the trailer: Any vehicle towing a trailer over 750 kg must be equipped with an inertia braking system. This type of braking allows weight distribution for better stabilization of the vehicle in the event of braking.
- Drive with a load evenly distributed: Before leaving, make sure that the goods to be transported are properly secured and that the trailer is not overloaded.
For that you have to:
- evenly distribute the load starting at the trailer axles,
- in the event of multiple objects, the heaviest must be positioned in the centre of the trailer floor,
- use the straps and the trailer cover then block the attachments so that the goods do not spill onto the road.
Other questions you may be interested in
Can a learner driver tow a trailer in QLD?
Can a P2 driver tow a trailer in NSW?
Can a RAV4 tow a U haul trailer?
- Follow the traffic instructions for driving a trailer: To comply with trailer regulations, you must:
- reduce speed on narrow roads, especially when crossing with another vehicle,
- for any overrun:
- properly assess your speed before overtaking a vehicle,
- when overtaking, leave a sufficient lateral distance between the two vehicles,
- take into account the length of the coupling before folding back into its travel lane in complete safety,
- on descents: limit your speed and make maximum use of the efficiency of the engine brake for increased safety in the event of emergency braking and better stabilization of the coupling.
- Secure your trailer: Before hitting the road with a trailer, you need to know how to hitch it correctly to the rear of the car. The equipment is attached to the car using a coupling head.
The Rameder hitch specialist site explains which model to choose according to your vehicle. The trailer must be properly aligned with the car so that the manoeuvre and its attachment are easy. This requires the driver to back up his car until it meets the hitch arm to attach the trailer.
Once the equipment has been hitched up, it is important to install safety chains to prevent it from accidentally coming off the car. It is also necessary to connect the electric cables of the trailer so that all the lights work normally.
- Drive through familiar areas and take short trips – Drive around your area, take short trips, and don’t drive long distances in the car for now until you have more practice.
- Put the phone on silent – Even hands-free calls can be distracting, so keep your phone away when driving. Most smartphones now have “Do Not Disturb” mode, so it won’t ring or vibrate while you’re driving.
- It is essential to know the standard terms of the maximum weights that the vehicle can support. For example, the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is the vehicle’s weight with all its occupants and cargo included.
The gross combination weight rating (GCWR) is the gross weight of the car, its occupants and the load, in addition to the weight of everything that is being towed. The tongue weight (TW) is the weight that the trailer puts on the hitch.
- Check the load capacity of your vehicle. The instructions can be found in the vehicle manual, but if you do not have it at hand, contact the manufacturer to obtain the information. Make sure the vehicle has the necessary capacity to tow the weight you require.
Conclusions
We remind you, that as a P2 driver you can tow a trailer in Victoria. Drive slowly and cautiously. As you begin to drive with a trailer, become familiar with the overall dynamics of the vehicle and the trailer as a whole.
Test the brakes and learn how to calculate stopping distances. Pay close attention to traffic signs, take curves at low speeds, and generally change direction with subtlety.
If you have any questions or comments on the content, please let us know!
FAQ on Can a P2 driver tow a trailer in VIC?
Can a P1 driver tow a trailer QLD?
Yes, a P1 driver can tow a trailer in QLD. Both L platter and P platers must display the L/P sign clearly on both the trailer and the towing vehicle.
Can Red P platers tow trailers?
Yes, Red P platers can tow trailers, as long as it doesn’t exceed 750 kg weight and it doesn’t have less than 250 kg unloaded.
Can P platers listen to music Qld?
No, P platters are not allowed to listen to music or use hands-free in QLD. The law regards even if you can change the music from the steering wheel.
Can you tow a caravan on your green PS?
If you hold a green P licence you can tow a caravan that weighs 750 kgs or less. Red P licence holders cannot legally tow a caravan or trailer.
