In Texas, registration is required for all non-farm trailers operating on public highways. The registration requirements vary according to trailer type and weight. For instance, if the trailer is over 4,000 pounds gross weight, it must be titled, but if it is 4,000 pounds gross weight or less, titling is optional. In addition, a trailer inspection is required for trailers over 7,500 pounds gross weight, and farm trailers are exempt from this inspection. While it is unclear if a camper can have lifetime plates in Texas, the registration process and requirements are outlined on the TxDMV website.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Registration | Required for all non-farm trailers operating on public highways |
Registration and titling requirements | Vary according to trailer type and weight |
Categories | Manufactured (built by a trailer manufacturer) or homemade (built by an individual in their garage or shop) |
Gross weights | The trailer weight plus the weight it can carry |
Weight threshold | 4,000 lbs |
Registration cost | $45 for trailers or travel trailers up to 6,000 lbs |
Registration renewal | Online at Texas.gov |
General registration renewal requirements | Texas Department of Motor Vehicles renewal notice, government-issued photo identification, current vehicle inspection report if the trailer’s gross weight is above 7,500 lbs |
Non-owner registration renewal requirements | Form VTR-271 granting power of attorney for the owner, a business card or authorization on company letterhead giving permission to renew the trailer’s registration |
Farm trailer registration renewal additional documentation | An unexpired agricultural exemption permit issued by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, a completed Form VTR-52-A if switching from regular trailer to farm trailer license plates |
What You'll Learn
Camper registration requirements in Texas
In Texas, all vehicles, including campers, must be registered before they can be taken on the road. The registration process varies from state to state, but in Texas, it can be done in person at your local county tax office. It is important to note that Texas license plates must be renewed annually, and failure to do so may result in a ticket.
The registration requirements for campers in Texas depend on whether the trailer is manufactured or homemade. Manufactured trailers typically have the manufacturer's name on the trailer tongue and are built by a trailer manufacturer. Homemade trailers, on the other hand, are built by individuals in their garage or shop. If you are unsure whether your trailer is manufactured or homemade, it must be inspected by a law enforcement officer specializing in auto theft.
For manufactured trailers in Texas with a gross weight exceeding 4,000 lbs., specific documents must be submitted to the county tax assessor-collector office, including a completed Application for Texas Title and/or Registration (Form 130-U) and evidence of ownership. Newly assembled trailers, including farm trailers, must be titled regardless of weight.
In addition to the standard registration requirements, Texas has specific insurance requirements for operating a vehicle. Applicants must provide proof of liability insurance that meets the state's minimum liability limits of $30,000/$60,000/$25,000.
It is important to note that the registration fees for campers in Texas are $51.75, plus any applicable county fees. The fees are based on the weight of the vehicle and the county in which it is registered.
Furthermore, Texas requires vehicles to pass a safety inspection and, in some cases, an emissions inspection to be registered. This applies to both new and used vehicles.
Overall, registering a camper in Texas involves completing the necessary paperwork, providing proof of insurance, and paying the required fees. It is important to stay up to date with registration requirements to avoid penalties and ensure a smooth process when taking your camper on the road.
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Camper trailer weight categories
The weight of a camper trailer is an important consideration when buying an RV. There are several weight categories to consider when choosing a camper trailer, each with its own unique features and capabilities. Here is a detailed overview of the different camper trailer weight categories:
- Lightweight Fifth Wheels: This category includes camper trailers that typically weigh between 2,400 and 9,000 pounds. They are designed to be towed by smaller vehicles and offer a more compact and manoeuvrable option. These trailers often feature innovative space-saving designs and may include slide-outs to expand the living area.
- Mid-Sized Fifth Wheels: With weights ranging from 9,000 to 14,000 pounds, mid-sized fifth wheels offer a balance between portability and spaciousness. They are ideal for those who want more room than a lightweight model but don't need the full capacity of a larger trailer.
- Full-Sized Fifth Wheels: Weighing in at 11,000 to 22,000 pounds, full-sized fifth wheels are the heaviest and most spacious option. They often feature multiple slide-outs, expansive interiors, and a wide range of amenities, making them perfect for extended trips or full-time living.
- Toy Hauler Fifth Wheels: With weights ranging from 10,000 to 16,500 pounds, toy hauler fifth wheels are designed to carry recreational vehicles such as ATVs, motorcycles, or dirt bikes. They usually have a large garage-style door for easy loading and unloading of toys, along with living quarters for comfortable accommodation.
- Travel Trailers: Travel trailers are a popular choice for those seeking a balance between portability and comfort. They have an average weight of around 5,200 pounds, making them suitable for a wide range of tow vehicles. Travel trailers come in various lengths and configurations, offering flexibility in terms of floor plans and amenities.
When considering a camper trailer, it's essential to match its weight with the towing capacity of your vehicle. Overloading your vehicle can lead to safety hazards and accelerated wear and tear. Additionally, factors such as cargo weight, water weight, and slide-outs can significantly impact the overall weight of the trailer. It is recommended to add about 1,500 pounds to the unloaded vehicle weight to account for gear and water.
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Camper trailer registration fees
In Texas, camper trailers are subject to registration and titling requirements that vary according to trailer type and weight. Trailers with a gross weight exceeding 7,500 lbs must pass an annual safety inspection. Registration is required for all non-farm trailers operating on public highways.
For manufactured trailers, if the gross weight exceeds 4,000 lbs, it must be titled. To register a manufactured trailer, submit the following documents to your county tax assessor-collector office:
- A completed Application for Texas Title and/or Registration (Form 130-U)
- Evidence of ownership, such as a Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) or bill of sale
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Current vehicle inspection report (VIR) if the trailer's gross weight is more than 7,500 lbs
- Government-issued photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport
The cost to register a trailer or travel trailer up to 6,000 lbs is $45. Heavier trailers will fall into one of seven weight classifications between 6,001 lbs and 80,000 lbs, with a base registration fee of $54.
It is important to note that registration requirements and fees may vary slightly depending on the county in Texas. For example, in Travis County, the standard fee for cars and light trucks is a base registration fee of $50.75.
In addition to the standard registration fee, there may be additional local fees assessed by the county of registration, which can range from $0 to $31.50. These local fees may include a charge of up to $10 for deposit into the county's road and bridge fund, an additional fee of up to $20 for transportation projects, and a child safety fee of up to $1.50.
Texas also offers temporary permits for vehicles that are not authorized to travel on Texas highways due to lack of registration. These include 72-hour and 144-hour permits, one-trip permits, and 30-day permits. The cost of a 72-hour permit is $25, while a 144-hour permit is $50. A one-trip permit costs $5 and is valid for 15 calendar days. A 30-day permit costs $25 and is valid for 30 calendar days.
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Camper trailer titling requirements
In Texas, registration is always required for a trailer, but the need for a title depends on the trailer's weight. If the trailer weighs over 4,000 pounds (gross weight, i.e. empty weight plus carrying capacity), it must be titled. If it weighs 4,000 pounds or less, titling is optional. If the trailer was previously titled, it must continue to be titled.
There are exceptions for farm trailers:
- A title is required if the trailer weighs over 34,000 pounds or was previously titled.
- A title is optional if the trailer weighs 34,000 pounds or less.
- Farm trailer registration is optional if the trailer weighs 4,000 pounds or less.
- Farm trailers are exempt from inspection.
To title and register a trailer in Texas, you must submit the following to a county tax office:
- Evidence of ownership, such as a Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin, title, bill of sale, or out-of-state registration receipt.
- Completed Application for Texas Title and/or Registration (Form 130-U).
- Completed Trailer Verification Statement of Fact (Form VTR-141). This is only required if the trailer is being titled and is a new travel trailer, a park model trailer, a travel trailer or park model trailer last titled/registered out-of-state, or a homemade trailer being titled for the first time.
- Weight Certificate, if applicable. This is required for all out-of-state trailers unless the empty weight is shown on the out-of-state title or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin.
- Applicant's current driver's license or government-issued photo identification.
- Proof of current inspection, if applicable. Inspection is required for trailers over 7,500 pounds gross weight (farm trailers exempt).
The cost to register a trailer or travel trailer up to 6,000 pounds is $45.
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Camper trailer registration renewal
In Texas, camper trailers are required to have license plates and must be registered. Registration renewal can be done online at Texas.gov or in person at your local county tax office or an approved substation.
To renew your camper trailer registration online, you must do so within 90 days before or after the expiration date. There is a two-business-day payment processing hold, and it can take up to three weeks for processing and mailing. You can track the status of your registration sticker online.
If you choose to renew your registration in person, bring your registration renewal notice and proof of current liability insurance to your county tax office or an approved substation. Some counties offer renewals at locations like grocery stores, but these locations may not accept your Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) as proof of inspection. In this case, you will be directed to the county tax office to complete your renewal.
Acceptable forms of payment vary by county. Contact your local county tax office for details.
For non-owner registration renewal, you will need Form VTR-271 granting you power of attorney for the owner, as well as a business card or authorization on company letterhead giving you permission to renew the trailer's registration.
Farm trailers have additional documentation requirements for registration renewal, including an unexpired agricultural exemption permit issued by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. The name on the state vehicle record must match the name on the permit.
It's important to note that registration renewal fees vary based on trailer weight and county of registration. Standard fees for trailer and travel trailer registration up to 6,000 pounds are $45.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, registration is always required for a trailer in Texas.
New trailers must be registered using form VTR-141. Used trailers with a gross weight in excess of 4,000 pounds must have a certificate of title, and used trailers with a weight below or equal to 4,000 pounds must have a Bill of Sale plus the registration receipt. These can be submitted with Form 130-U.
The annual registration fee for a trailer or travel trailer (if the trailer requires registration) with a gross vehicle weight of 6,000 lbs. or less is $45, plus applicable fees and local county fees.
No, camper trailer plates are continuous, which means that you only pay to register that trailer and plate once.