The Department for Transport has published a consultation on planned legislative changes to the Trailer Registration Regulations 2018 and the associated trailer registration scheme.
The consultation, which closes on 2 July 2021, includes the following proposals:
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Changing the font used on a registration plate to the one that is readily available to Registered Number Plate Suppliers. Existing plates remain valid.
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Allowing trailer inspections to take place at a location that appears convenient to the secretary of state, rather than an authorised testing facility. Ideally this will be somewhere that is agreeable to both customers and inspection staff, provided it is suitable for inspection purposes.
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Abolishing the further inspection fee of £39 as this is not required.
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Reducing the minimum time for renewal of documents from 12 months to 6 months. A process for automatic reminders will also be put in place.
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Introducing a field to collect trailer type information at the point of registration, e.g. box, curtain-sided, etc., alongside information e.g. chassis number, to assist with crime prevention. Existing keepers will be asked to update their registration.
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Clarifying that all mechanically propelled vehicles cannot also be registered as trailers. This addresses an issue, whereby small cars that are towed behind motorhomes using towbar like ‘A-frame’ devices are being dual registered.
Responses can be emailed to [email protected]
