Is it necessary to pass the MOT with a trailer?

One of the most common questions that first-time trailer drivers have is whether a trailer must pass the ITV inspection. The answer is subject to many nuances, so it is necessary to explain it in depth to avoid any kind of doubt.

For this reason, in this post we will tell you everything you need to know to be prepared for the ITV inspection with your trailer.

Which types of trailers are required to undergo the ITV

Trailers are classified as light or heavy based on the maximum authorized mass (MMA). Light trailers have an MMA of less than 750 kg, while heavy trailers exceed 750 kg. This difference is important because it is what requires heavy trailers to be registered and therefore considered vehicles.

In contrast, light trailers—being not considered vehicles—are not required to undergo the ITV, but they must be present when the towing vehicle undergoes it. On the other hand, heavy trailers are required to undergo their own ITV, independent of the towing vehicle.

When does a heavy trailer need to undergo the ITV

The periodicity of the ITV inspection for a heavy trailer is similar to that of a vehicle such as a car or motorcycle. The first inspection will be once two years have passed since its registration, and it must be done every two years until it is 6 years old. After it turns 6 years old, the inspection will become annual until it is 10 years old, and for trailers over 10 years old, the inspection will be every 6 months.

What documentation is needed to pass the ITV of a trailer

Regardless of the type of trailer you are taking for the ITV, it is always necessary to provide specific documentation. This point usually generates the most doubts among most drivers and varies according to the type of trailer. The documentation you need to bring for your ITV inspection:

Light trailers

In the case of light trailers, it is necessary to provide the ITV card of the towing vehicle, which contains all the information about the vehicle that will tow the trailer. Additionally, you must submit the documentation regarding the installation of the tow ball and the car insurance.

Heavy trailers

The documentation for a heavy trailer is very similar to that of light trailers, coinciding in the ITV card and the installation of the tow ball. However, since it is considered a vehicle, it is required to carry extra documentation such as the circulation permit and the individual insurance of the trailer.

We hope this information is useful for passing the ITV inspections of your trailers.