What is an A-Frame and Towing Dolly?

An A-frame is a lightweight frame attached from the towing points of a towed vehicle to the ball type coupling on a towing vehicle.

A towing dolly is a lightweight trailer-like frame with wheels, ramps and winch which is attached to the coupling of a towing vehicle and used to elevate and transport a vehicle.

Can I use an a-frame to tow a car behind a motorhome?

Yes. But you must hold an appropriate driving licence and ensure that the vehicle’s towing capacity is high enough to tow this weight.

Can I use a braked A-frame (applies brakes of the car when the towing vehicle slows down or applies the brakes) to tow my car?

Yes. Provided your towing vehicle has a sufficient towing capacity and you hold the relevant driving licence (Category EB). Refer to vehicle manufacturer to obtain the towing capacity for your vehicle.

Can I use A-Frame on a Motorway and if so what is the maximum speed for towing?

Yes. The maximum legal speed limit for towing an A-Frame on a motorway is 80km/hr. If a lower speed limit sign is posted then this must be obeyed at all times.

Do I have to stay in the left lane when towing on a motorway?

Yes. You must always stay in the left lane. You should not enter the right lane (or lane nearest the central median) unless there is an obstruction in the left lane and if so you must warn traffic accordingly.

When using an A-frame or Towing Dolly does the vehicle that’s being towed require motor tax and NCT?

No. If a vehicle is being towed it does not require motor tax or NCT disc to be displayed.

Can I use an A-Frame/towing dolly/drawbar etc. to tow a broken down vehicle?

Yes. By law towing a broken down vehicle should only to done to nearest place of safety and same rules apply as towing a light trailer e.g.

Carrying capacity: The weight of the broken down vehicle cannot be more than the carrying capacity of the towing device, if one is used (e.g. A-Frame, Dolly, Drawbar etc.)

Towing capacity: The weight of both the broken down vehicle and the towing device cannot be more than the manufacturer’s rated towing capacity for your vehicle.

Licence: The driver of the towing vehicle must be the holder of a BE Driving Licence and the driver steering the broken down vehicle must also hold the appropriate licence for that vehicle. For further details you may wish to refer to our FAQ on Towing a Broken down Vehicle.

What licence is required when using an A-Frame or Dolly?