Can L-plate drivers tow a trailer?
Learning to drive a car with a trailer in tow is illegal in some jurisdictions, but in others, there are few restrictionsLearner drivers might need to tow a trailer. Maybe while on a family holiday or perhaps a job that involves towing a trailer.
This information is to be used as a guide only. Rules can change, and it’s best to enquire with the appropriate jurisdiction for up-to-date information.
States where towing a trailer is not allowed whatsoever for a learner driver include NSW, VIC, and TAS.
In NSW, learners can’t tow any trailer or vehicle. This applies even when travelling interstate on a NSW learner licence, even if the state permits learner drivers to tow.
Similarly, L-plate drivers from any state must not tow a trailer, caravan, or any other vehicle while driving in VIC – regardless of where their learner licence was issued.
There is one exception in VIC which permits learners from any jurisdiction to tow trailers: driving a tractor for work in agriculture, horticulture, dairy, pastoral, or commercial fishing – even without displaying L-plates. However, if you're on an interstate learner licence, you're only permitted to do this for up to three months before needing to transfer to a VIC learner licence.
In TAS, learners focus on driving a car without the distraction of towing any vehicle, including trailers.
States that allow learner drivers to tow while learning to drive are QLD, SA, WA, and NT with limitations.
Learners may tow trailers up to 4500kg, the same limit as full licence holders. However, a L-plate must be visible on the back of the trailer to ensure other road users know that a learner is driving.
In the ACT, learners can tow but only if the trailer weighs a total (the weight of the trailer plus any load) of up to 750kg. Examples of trailers weighing this could be a box trailer, a teardrop camper, or possibly a single jet ski on a trailer. Learner L-platers must also ensure that their L-plates are clearly visible to other drivers.
Check with your state motoring authority before towing on L-plates.
L-plater towing rules by state/territory
New South Wales | Cannot tow any trailer or vehicle, even when driving interstate on a NSW learner licence. |
Victoria | Cannot tow any trailer or vehicle, regardless of licence origin. Exception: Learners may tow a trailer only when driving a tractor for work in agriculture, horticulture, dairy, pastoral, or commercial fishing. Interstate learners can do this for up to three months before transferring to a VIC licence. L-plates not required in this case. |
Tasmania | Cannot tow any trailer or vehicle. |
Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, Northern Territory | Can tow trailers up to 4500kg, same as full licence holders. L-plates must be displayed on the back of the trailer. |
Australian Capital Territory | Can tow trailers with a total weight (trailer + load) up to 750kg. L-plates must be clearly visible. |
Related: Can a P-plater tow a trailer?
Related: Towing weights explained: How to legally and safely tow a caravan in Australia
Related: Your questions answered: What tow car should I buy?
Related: Know before you go: Top tow tips
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