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Well, I am now more confused than ever. I have looked at the various pages on the Dvla website and it refers to MAM (maximum authorised mass) and then mentions "unladen weight" in the text. It also states that on reaching 70, entitlement changes from B+E to B. I am now 68 and I have held my licence almost 50 years (inc motorcycle). I have owned a caravan since 1968.My outfit is a Landrover Discovery (Mam 2880kgs) and Bailey (Mam 1500kgs)...gross train weight 4380kgs. Therefore, in two years time when my current licence expires cos I will be 70: I will not be able to use this towing combination, unless I take a test for B+E. I thought that I would receive an IDENTICAL licence as a replacement although it will be a photo version.

EDIT: I have just checked the Members section on the Caravan Club website regarding driving licences: They say that on reaching 70, when your licence is re-issued, your B+E will be maintained.It also states that the towcar is UPTO MAM 3500kgs. For vehicles over this: a form D4 (Medical Cert) signed by doctor is required.

Sorry, laurieW, but when you turn 70 the B+E licence only allows you to tow a caravan where the Gross Vehicle Weight plus the MTPLM of the caravan does not exceed 4,250 kg.  At 4,380 kg (your figures) you will be outside this allowance.

Bertie.

I think that the real difficulty will arise with our children or grandchildren, should they wish to take up our noble hobby. Vehicles per se are getting generally heavier and 4x4's are no exception.

Perhaps the best ever (so far) affordable? tow car is the Discovery 3, which I believe weighs in at around 2850kgs kerbweight. That leaves a maximum trailer weight allowance of 1400kgs! The most capable towcar is unable to tow a twin axle caravan unless the driver has passed an additional driving test.

Then there are the added questions as to whether the car would need a speed-limiter or tachograph fitted......

Quote " Category B

Motor vehicles with a MAM not exceeding 3,500 kg and not more than 8 seats, and with a trailer up to 750 kg. End quote.

Where does that leave me with my 12 seat Land Rover then? Kerbweigh 1950kgs, GVW 2950kgs, GTW 6450kgs?

Hello Defender. How about this (If it is correct what Bertie said):

We go to Spain for 4 months each year and I celebrate my birthday whilst there. Therefore I can take my current outfit there as I would be 69, but I can't legally fetch it back cos I would be 70. Also, if I swap my Discovery,("plated" max tow weight 3500kg), for, say a Mondeo: I would be OK....ridiculous!

I wonder who thinks up these rules...

laurieW, you have shown what is clearly, as you say, a ridiculous situation.  The behaviour of the caravan, subject to the towcar being a good match, will be the same whatever vehicle you use to pull it.  In your case, the heavier Discovery would provide a greater safety margin than a lighter vehicle to make you road legal.

Regarding renewal of your driving licence.  We were going to be away from home (but not abroad), for some weeks before my new licence was required.  I contacted the DVLA and they allowed me to apply for my new licence ahead of the normal period.  It may be worth your while to enquire.

Bertie.