What lighting is required on a two-axle trailer?

In this blog, you will read:

• Which lighting is mandatory as standard on a two-axle trailer?
• What are the requirements for wide or open trailers?

Front lighting on a two-axle trailer

* According to ECE R48, position lights must be fitted symmetrically on either side of the centre line, regardless of the vehicle type. This lighting is mandatory for trailers put into service after 30 June 1967, as stipulated in Article 3 of the 1990 Road Traffic Regulations.

Rear lighting on a two-axle trailer

* The lighting must be white and positioned in such a way that the entire number plate is illuminated evenly and without glare. This is stipulated in ECE R4 and ECE R48, and is checked during MOT tests.

* Rear fog lights must comply with ECE R38, which defines, amongst other things, light output, light distribution and colour. These lights may only operate when the low beams or high beams of the towing vehicle are switched on, as required by Article 35 of the 1990 Road Traffic Regulations.

Side lighting on a two-axle trailer

Side marker lights are compulsory for trailers longer than 6 metres, with the distance between the lights not exceeding 3 metres. These lights must be amber coloured and have a light output that complies with ECE R91. On open trailers, the lights may be fitted lower if higher mounting points are structurally impossible.

What are the exceptions?

Mounting requirements for the lighting on the trailer

According to ECE R48, lighting must be placed at a height that ensures optimal visibility. For example, rear lights and brake lights must be mounted between 0.35 metres and 1.50 metres above the road surface, while side marker lights must be placed between 0.25 metres and 1.50 metres.

A two-axle trailer has specific lighting requirements that contribute to visibility and safety on the road. By fitting the lighting correctly in accordance with ECE R48 regulations, you will comply with legal requirements and avoid fines or unsafe situations.

Do you have any questions, or are you looking for lighting that complies with legal standards? Browse our range of LED lighting for trailers or get in touch for advice.

National differences in lighting requirements

Although the ECE R48 regulations shape the basis for vehicle lighting in Europe, some countries have additional controls or specific interpretations of these rules. Here are some examples:

Germany

• During TÜVor DEKRA inspections, extra attention is paid to the brightness and correct adjustment of lighting, such as licence plate lighting. The symmetry of rear lights is also strictly checked.

Italy

• In mountainous areas, periodic inspections often pay particular attention to the functioning of rear fog lights and side marker lights, especially on trailers that regularly travel in poor visibility conditions.

France

• Agricultural vehicles or trailers used in rural areas are subject to additional requirements regarding side marker lights and indicators. This is to ensure visibility on narrow or unlit roads.

United Kingdom

• The UK imposes additional requirements on number plate lighting for trailers with their own registration number. During an MOT truck, a fault with this lighting can result in the vehicle being failed immediately.

Important to know

The basic rules from ECE R48 are almost always leading, but these national nuances can influence the assessment during vehicle inspections. Therefore, always check the specific requirements applicable in the country where your vehicle is inspected or used.

Complete guide to trailer lighting

Would you like to know more about the lighting requirements for other types of trailers? Then read the complete guide to legislation on trailer lighting.

Disclaimer:

At TRALERT®, we do our best to keep the information in this article as accurate and up-to-date as possible, including the regulations surrounding vehicle lighting. However, legislation can change regularly, and although we make every effort to implement these changes in a timely manner, it is possible that certain updates or adjustments have not yet been incorporated into this article. We therefore always advise our readers to check the current legislation with their local government or regulatory bodies, especially when it comes to exceptions or specific national regulations. TRALERT® is not liable for any damages or fines resulting from outdated or incomplete information in this article.

If in doubt, always contact the competent authority to ensure that your vehicle meets all legal requirements.