School terms across South Africa ended on Friday (June 24) which will undoubtedly lead to a massive increase in traffic on the country’s roads, according to the AA.
It is assumed by many drivers in South Africa that by passing their driver’s test, they are automatically qualified to tow, while this was once the case, it has not been for a long time.
In 2000 the government changed to the credit card type driving licences.
When this happened, all code 08 licences were automatically converted to EB code licences.
Since then, all new standard driving licences issued are only code B licences.
What this means is that a code B licence allows a motorist to tow a light luggage trailer weighing less than 750 kgs (fully laden).
To tow a heavier trailer, caravan or boat, a code EB licence is required.
“This change has led to some confusion with many people still assuming that a driving licence automatically allows them to tow any sort of trailer.
“This is no longer the case and code B drivers who are towing trailers heavier than 750 kgs are doing so illegally,” the AA warns.
The law does not make provision for a simple upgrade from the code B to the code EB licence.
Motorists who want a code EB licence must retake the learner’s licence test and repeat their driver tests, with a trailer weighing more than 750 kgs.
“Of concern is that many people simply don’t realise that they are towing illegally.
“Besides the legal implications, motorists will falsely believe they are covered by their insurance in the event of a crash while the reality is that these claims may be declined.
“This could lead to major negative financial implications, especially if other vehicles are involved,” says the AA.
