Licences To Tow Heavy Trailers

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30939, 21 December 1965, Page 3

Licences To Tow Heavy Trailers

(New Zealand Preet Aetoclatlon) WELLINGTON, Dec. 20. Drivers who have had experience in towing heavy trailers weighing more than two and a half tons (including caravans or implements) can now obtain the new class of heavy trailer licence without taking a practical driving test.

The Minister of Transport (Mr McAlpine) said today that provided a driver signed a statement which said he had had experience in towing a heavy trailer, the issuing authority would extent his licence to include “heavy trailer.” After March 31 any person towing a trailer which—including its load—weighs more than two and a half tons must hold either an existing articulated licence or the new heavy trailer licence. Mr McAlpine said some holders of passenger service vehicle or omnibus licences who did not hold an articulated licence but who drove an articulated omnibus or passenger vehicle would have to obtain a heavy trailer licence. The Minister said holders of passenger service vehicle licences who did not hold heavy trade licences—but who drove heavy trucks as passenger service vehicles—would

have to obtain heavy trade licences by March 31. Mr McAlpine said an amendment to the Motor Drivers* regulations providing for the changes would be gazetted early in the New Year.