While we need various license plates for many types of vehicles, campers, and cargo trailers there is uncertainty when it comes to teardrop camper ownership. On our travels, our family plays the “license plate game” where we can see how many different license plates that each person can tally up for a win.
We see license plates on semi-trucks, regular cars, campers, and trailers. The next question becomes quite logical. Does my teardrop need a license plate to be legal on the road? The short answer is yes!
However, there are a few factors that play into this answer, so it is always best to check with your state’s Department of Transportation.
As it stands, check with your state to make sure you are keeping in conduct with their laws and regulations. However, we will tackle a few of the considerations that your local department reviews in terms of needing a license plate.
Use these as a tool in accordance with your transportation department to see if your teardrop requires one:
- What state do you live in?
- We understand that there are some Southern states that don’t require registration, however this is more because vintage trailers are “grandfathered” in, or it is a permanent registration.
- How heavy is your teardrop trailer? What is the length?
- The weight of your teardrop will help determine whether the type of registration that will be required of you. As many models are less than 5,000 lbs, it will be more of a matter of paying less for your registration. If your teardrop is less than 15’ in length, then you may qualify for permanent registration as a camper trailer. Registration is always required, which is for legality and insurance purposes.
- What type of registration and license plate will you need?
- A regular registration will be something you have to renew every 1-5 years, dependent on the size of your trailer. A teardrop is likely to receive potential for a longer-term registration. To save on this cost, you may consider a permanent registration which is a one-time fee, and no annual tax billing. Again, this depends on your state’s regulations. Arizona happens to exclude travel trailers and campers from applying for permanent tabs on license plates. We understand that Virginia and South Carolina do not put stipulations like that, and you can get a permanent license plate for your teardrop.
- What is the main use for your teardrop?
- How you are using your teardrop trailer may impact your need for license plates. Is it primarily used for travel? Then you are more likely to require one. Is it used for business purposes and maintains a permanent resident somewhere? Then you are less likely to need a license plate, insurance, etc.
A good deal of states (if not almost all of them) require registration of every type of trailer these days. There is a good reason for that, and we highly recommend registration, license plates, and insurance for all of the below considerations:
- Liability and Legality – Not only does registration protect you should weather or damage from outside sources, but it also protects others from potential damage that your teardrop could do to their personal property. It truly protects all parties included. Most states require that you provide these necessary plates to be legal on the road. Most towed items need this as they provide proof that proper taxes have been paid to maintain roadworthy status.
- Protecting Your Asset – Should your previous new commodity be damaged in inclement weather, during roadside travels, or involved in an accident of any sort, then registration will make it easier for you to recoup funds to repair your teardrop. In the worst-case scenario that you need to replace the entire unit, then proper ownership and responsibility records will make the process that much easier for you.
- Protection After Theft – If you are a victim of theft, your teardrop will be easier to recognize and locate if you have license plates and a tag number that you can provide to the authorities. It will be likely looking for a needle in a haystack should you not have any identifying items attached to your teardrop.
- Easier Ownership Transference – Ownership proof and roadworthy documentation will be necessary to sell your teardrop unit, should you choose to down the line. Providing a potential buyer proof that you are authorized to sell the teardrop camper is recommended.
- Insurance Purchases – Most insurance companies will find it necessary to register your vehicle and provide proof, prior to buying a policy for your towed unit. A teardrop seems to be no different. Although insurance isn’t required for teardrop trailers in most regions, read our article on why we think insurance is a necessity for your teardrop.
As you can see, new rules and regulations across the different states seem to be requiring licensing plates and fees for towing your teardrop across the highways. There is very good reasoning behind it.
Along with teardrop ownership does come responsibility, just like any other type of recreational vehicle and trailer. Although it comes at additional cost, the benefits far outweigh the downside of extra taxing.
You may also like “Is a car able to tow a teardrop trailer“?
See you out on your future travels!
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