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State by State RV and Towing Laws

If you’re traveling between states, make sure you learn the towing laws of both states as laws can be quite different from one state to another. However, most states have very fluid towing laws and the laws are not enforced too stringently. There are a few general rules pertaining to trailers that carry higher weights that require breakaway switches that automatically engage in case the trailer disengages from the car. Other than that, there aren’t many laws absolutely set in stone because most laws are aimed only at truckers who drive large big rigs.

AA1Car: Has very good information on trailer brakes, which are very important for trailer safety.

Trailer Towing Laws: Provides a list of things you should focus on when towing, like if your clearance lights work and if you have proper reflectors. They also explain how RV towing regulations work.

The United States Department of Transportation: Provides excellent tips on towing as well as a list of excellent safety tips for people who are towing. They also have information about measuring weight and other useful guidelines.

Alaska Trailer Laws: Laws are very strict where trailers have to be titled and registered!

Arizona’s Towing Laws: Speed may not exceed 55 miles per hour and that the maximum weight before a breakaway switch is needed is 3,000 pounds. They also have information on boat donation for boaters.

California’s Towing Laws: When towing, one’s speed cannot be greater than 55 miles per hour and the requirement for a breakaway switch is a trailer weighing 1,500 pounds. However, the laws can be different if you’re towing a boat and not some other vehicle, so look that up too.

The California Department of Motor Vehicles: Guidelines on towing a trailer safely. You will also find pages on car donation in northern California on the site.

Michigan Towing Laws: You can’t tow more than vehicle if you’re heading to the dunes.

Florida Department of Transportation: Allows only one trailer to be towed and the RV and trailer cannot exceed 65′ maximum length.

RVersOnline: Has a list of practical tips for first-timers.

ReadyBreak: Lets you search towing laws by state. Also provides information about whether a trailer requires license or tail lights, insurance or safety chains.

2004 Trailer Laws: Puts together a large chart divided by state that explains things like a state’s maximum towing speed, trailer length, trailer width, overall length, and the weight required for trailer brakes.

TowingWorld: Provides information on towing laws by state.

RV and towing laws vary state to state, but it’s very important that you follow basic guidelines to ensure that you and everyone else on the road stay safe.

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