Towing
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Licence and Permit Requirements
A valid driver’s licence (Class G1, G2, or G) is sufficient for towing trailers up to 4,600 kilograms in gross weight (trailer + load).
If the trailer and load exceed specified size and weight limits, you may need a higher-class licence or an oversize vehicle permit.
It is against the law to tow more than one trailer behind non-commercial vehicles.
Registering Your Trailer
A trailer is considered a separate vehicle and must be registered at a ServiceOntario centre.
Upon registration, you receive a trailer licence plate and vehicle permit. The plate must be clearly visible on the back of the trailer.
Carry the permit (or a copy) at all times to show to a police officer, if requested.
Maintaining a Safe Trailer
Ensure the trailer is in good operating condition. Police may remove it from the road if it’s unsafe.
Trailers weighing 1,360 kg or more (gross trailer weight) must have functioning brakes.
Required trailer lights include: a white licence plate light, a red tail light, and two red reflectors at the rear.
Trailers over 2.05 metres wide must also have front yellow clearance lights and rear red clearance lights or reflectors on each side.
Mud guards, fenders, or flaps are required to prevent splashing other vehicles.
Attaching the Trailer
Use a high-quality hitch rated for the trailer’s gross weight (trailer + load).
Ensure the hitch-ball is installed so the trailer is level and secure when attached.
If the trailer sags the rear of the towing vehicle, use a load-equalizing hitch or shift weight toward the rear of the trailer.
Always attach safety chains or cables to provide a secondary connection if the primary hitch fails. Chains must cross under the tongue and have latches that won’t detach accidentally.
No Passengers
Carrying people in any towed trailer, including house or boat trailers, is prohibited.
This rule applies whether the vehicle being towed is a boat, utility trailer, or any other form of trailer.
Loading the Trailer
Secure all items inside and outside the trailer. It’s an offence to have a load that might come loose or fall off.
Avoid overloading. Too much weight strains your vehicle’s tires, wheel bearings, and axle.
Distribute weight so that 5–10% of the trailer’s total weight rests on the hitch, keeping the trailer balanced.
Incorrect weight distribution can cause the trailer to sway or fishtail, and may lift the front end of your towing vehicle, affecting steering.
Driving Techniques with a Trailer
Before driving, check the hitch, tires, lights, and load distribution.
Accelerate and brake gradually, maintaining a safe following distance. Sudden stops may cause the trailer to jackknife.
Use extra caution when turning. Swing wide for right and left turns to accommodate the trailer’s path.
When passing, allow more time and space. After passing, do not return to your lane too quickly, as this can cause trailer sway.
If faster vehicles queue behind you, pull over safely to let them pass.
Large vehicles can create wind disturbances. If the trailer sways, steer calmly and slightly accelerate if needed.
Backing Up and Towing Disabled Vehicles
Backing up a trailer: turn the wheel in the opposite direction of where you want the trailer to go. Go slowly and use small steering adjustments.
Have someone guide you from outside the vehicle when possible, and practice in an empty lot.
For disabled vehicles, use a tow truck if possible. If you must tow, ensure someone operates the disabled vehicle’s brakes and steering, especially if power brakes or steering are non-functional.