Do Teardrop Trailers Have to Be Registered?

Teardrop trailer ownership has never been more fun than it is today!

They are so much fun to look at and provide all the luxuries you may need along your adventures. Along with the great exploration and ease that your teardrop camper will bring, we still have to think of “adulting” and the responsibilities that come along with a majorly exciting purchase.

We have articles that cover information on license plates for teardrops and obtaining titles for teardrops. Do teardrop trailers have to be registered?

Do Teardrop Trailers Have to Be Registered?

Yes — in most states, teardrop trailers do need to be registered. Like any other towable vehicle, registering your teardrop is a priority. The process differs from state to state, and the age, weight, and length of your trailer will determine your registration requirements and fees.

The Registration Process

Although the process changes from region to region, the nuts and bolts remain the same. You will want either a title or bill of sale. That shows proof that you are authorized to register your teardrop trailer. Any registration entity will need proof to avoid the liability of registering a unit to someone who does not provide proper ownership.

The following information will typically be required:

Year of the Teardrop Unit
Teardrop Make and Model
Purchase Price
Buyer and Seller Information
Receipts and Construction Proof (applicable if you built the unit)
Title or Certificate of Origin
Identification Number (usually a VIN)

Why Is Registration Necessary?

Registering your teardrop (when required) is the only way to maintain the legality of towing it down public roadways. If your unit is not properly registered. You could face hefty fines and penalties. You could also damage your teardrop. And not be properly compensated for repair or replacement. And if your trailer causes damage to another person’s property, you could face out of pocket costs because you were unable to purchase proper insurance.

No matter the consequences, registering your teardrop is another step in financial responsibility of ownership. It will also aid authorities in the retrieval of your teardrop. Should it ever be stolen.

Does Registration Vary by State?

Absolutely — and this is where it gets interesting. Every state handles teardrop trailer registration a little differently. Weight thresholds, required documents, fees, and renewal schedules all vary. Here is a state by state overview to help point you in the right direction. Always verify current requirements directly with your state’s DMV or Department of Transportation as rules can change.

Teardrop Trailer Registration by State

Arizona

Arizona requires registration for teardrop trailers. The process depends on the use of the trailer and its weight. Contact the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division for current fee schedules and requirements.

California

California requires registration for all trailers operating on public roads. DIY built trailers must obtain a Specially Constructed Vehicle (SPCNS) certificate before registration. You will need to submit an Application for Title or Registration (REG 343) and a Statement of Construction (REG 5036) to the DMV. Renewal is required annually.

Colorado

Colorado requires registration for trailers. Contact the Colorado DMV for weight based fee schedules and specific requirements for your trailer type.

Florida

Florida requires registration for trailers used on public roads. Trailers are registered with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Weight based fees apply.

Georgia

Georgia requires trailers to be registered. Contact the Georgia Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division for current requirements and fees.

Idaho

Idaho requires registration for trailers operated on public highways. Contact the Idaho Transportation Department for current requirements. Registration fees are based on trailer weight.

Illinois

Illinois requires trailers to be titled and registered. Contact the Illinois Secretary of State Vehicle Services Department for requirements and fees.

Indiana

Indiana requires registration for trailers. Before registration. Trailers must be inspected and assigned a VIN. You will need to complete the Indiana Vehicle Registration Application and an Indiana Certified VIN Inspection form. Gather receipts for all major components if you built your trailer.

Louisiana

Louisiana requires trailers to be registered with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles. Weight and trailer type determine applicable fees.

Michigan

Michigan requires registration for trailers. They issue a permanent trailer plate that does not require annual renewal, which simplifies the process considerably. Before registration, trailers must be inspected and assigned a VIN by a Michigan State Police officer.

Minnesota

Minnesota requires all trailers to be registered. DIY built trailers must be inspected and assigned a VIN before registration. Contact the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services for the Title and Register Motor Vehicle Application form.

Missouri

Missouri requires trailer registration. Before registration. Trailers must undergo a safety inspection and be assigned a VIN through the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Missouri also issues a permanent trailer plate that does not require annual renewal.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire requires trailers to be registered. Registration is handled through your local town or city clerk’s office. New Hampshire does not require separate trailer insurance. Your tow vehicle must be insured. Title fees apply for trailers over 3,000 lbs.

New York

New York requires trailers to be registered with the New York DMV. Weight based fees apply and annual renewal is required.

Oregon

Oregon has one of the most unique registration rules in the country. If your teardrop weighs under 1,800 lbs. Oregon classifies it as a utility trailer rather than a recreational vehicle. The owner is not required to register a teardrop trailer. However if your trailer has both sleeping and cooking facilities permanently installed. It may be classified as a travel trailer and you would be required to register. If you travel outside of Oregon with an unregistered trailer it is worth carrying documentation of Oregon’s rules to avoid citations in other states.

Texas

Texas requires trailer registration by you with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Requirements are based on weight and trailer use.

Washington

Washington State requires trailer registration. Contact the Washington Department of Licensing for current requirements and fees.

All Other States

As a general rule across the United States, you must register any trailer you operate on public roads. Check directly with your state’s DMV or Department of Transportation for current requirements. Weight thresholds and specific rules vary widely.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to register a teardrop trailer? Registration costs vary significantly by state and by the weight of your trailer. Most states charge between $20 and $100 for initial registration with annual renewal fees in a similar range. Some states like Michigan and Missouri issue permanent trailer plates with no annual renewal required.

Do I need a special license to tow a teardrop trailer? In most states a standard driver’s license is sufficient to tow a teardrop trailer. Teardrop trailers are lightweight enough that they typically do not trigger the commercial driver’s license or special endorsement thresholds. Always check your specific state’s requirements.

Does a teardrop trailer need its own insurance? Trailer insurance requirements vary by state. In many states your tow vehicle’s liability insurance extends to the trailer while you are towing it. However comprehensive and collision coverage for the trailer itself usually requires a separate policy. See our article on teardrop trailer insurance for more detail.

What if I built my own teardrop trailer? DIY built trailers generally require more documentation than factory built trailers. Most states will require a VIN inspection, receipts for major components, and completion of a homemade vehicle form before issuing a title and registration. The process varies by state so check with your local DMV early in your build process.

Do I need to re-register if I move to a new state? Yes — when you establish residency in a new state you will need to re-register your teardrop trailer with that state’s DMV. Most states give you 30 to 90 days after establishing residency to complete the transfer.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

You are new to this teardrop ownership and there is absolutely no shame in asking any questions. In fact — ASK ALL THE QUESTIONS! 😊

Ask people you know with teardrops, ask local dealerships and manufacturers, ask your transportation department, and ask the person you are potentially buying the unit from. They have done this before and have the expertise to guide you in local regulations.

Enjoy the Journey!

The process may seem intimidating when you have not gone through it before. But you have likely registered a vehicle before and this is nothing different.

Taking care of things like registration is the necessary part of ownership — the rest is just cake! Take pride in knowing you are one step closer to enjoying the teardrop ride of a lifetime!

Happy Tears! 🥲

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