If you’re planning a European touring holiday next year, there’s a critical requirement you need to know about.
Since August 2025, all trailers and caravans over 750kg must be registered with the DVLA before travelling to most European countries.
This represents a substantial change from the previous rules, which only required registration for commercial trailers over 750kg or any trailer over 3,500kg.
Here’s what you need to know to make sure your 2026 trip goes smoothly.
Do I Need to Register My Caravan?
If your caravan weighs over 750kg (gross weight) and you’re planning to tow it to or through most European countries, yes – you need to register it with the DVLA’s Trailer Registration Scheme.
This applies to virtually all touring caravans. The 750kg threshold is the gross weight (the maximum the caravan can weigh when fully loaded), not the empty weight. Most caravans easily exceed this limit.
Which Countries Require Registration?
The requirement applies to countries that have signed the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. This includes most popular touring destinations:
- Western Europe: France, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Italy, Portugal, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Monaco
- Scandinavia: Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland
- Eastern Europe: Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Croatia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Greece, Romania, Bulgaria
The only European exceptions are Ireland, Cyprus, Malta, and Spain. However, if you’re driving through France to reach Spain, you’ll still need to register because you’re travelling through a country that requires it.
How Do I Register My Caravan?
Registration is done online through the GOV.UK website. You’ll need:
- Your caravan’s vehicle identification number (VIN) or chassis number – usually on a metal plate or stamped into the chassis
- A Government Gateway user ID (you can create one during registration)
- Payment of £26 for first-time registration
Once registered, the DVLA will post you a trailer registration certificate and authorise you to have a registration plate made up for the caravan.
Find out more about registration on the government site here.
What About the Registration Plate?
Registered caravans must display their own unique registration plate, separate from the plate of your towing vehicle.
This needs to be fixed to the rear of the caravan in a visible, vertical position. You’ll also need to carry the registration certificate and be ready to show it to border officials or police if asked.
It’s also worth displaying a UK identifier sticker on the caravan to avoid any risk of enforcement action abroad.
What Happens If I Don’t Register?
Travelling without proper registration could mean on-the-spot fines of up to €1,000, delays at border crossings, or being turned back entirely. European authorities can check registration documents, and arriving without them creates problems you don’t want on a touring holiday.
The registration fee is £26 – a small price for peace of mind and a smooth journey through multiple countries.
How Long Does Registration Last?
Your registration certificate is valid for 10 years, and renewal is free of charge when it’s due to expire. The DVLA will send you a reminder before it runs out.
You’ll also need to update details if you sell the caravan (£21 to change keeper) or need a replacement certificate (£10).
I’m Already Registered with CRiS – Is That Enough?
CRiS (the Central Registration and Identification Scheme) is separate from DVLA trailer registration.
CRiS registration is typically required by insurance policies and helps with security and theft recovery in the UK. DVLA trailer registration is specifically for international travel.
You need both if you’re touring in Europe – CRiS for your insurance and security, DVLA registration for legal compliance abroad.
Does My Caravan Need an MOT?
No. Trailers and caravans don’t currently require an MOT to be registered or to travel in Europe.
However, it’s always worth checking your caravan is roadworthy before any trip – brakes, lights, tyres, and coupling should all be in good condition.
When Should I Register?
Don’t leave it until the last minute. Register well before your departure date to allow time for the certificate to arrive by post and for your registration plate to be made up. A few weeks before travel should be plenty, but earlier is better for peace of mind.
Planning Your 2026 European Adventure
For £26 and a quick online application, you’re set for travel across Europe.
With your Propex heating system keeping you comfortable whatever the weather, and your paperwork in order, you can focus on what matters – enjoying the journey.
Whether you’re heading for the French Alps, the Italian lakes, or the Portuguese coast, proper preparation makes for better touring.
Questions about preparing your caravan for European travel? Get in touch with us here – we’re always happy to help customers get the most from their leisure vehicles.
