Camper Tag Requirements: Tennessee's Rules For Rv Owners

In Tennessee, not every trailer is required to be titled and registered. While the state does not require tags on trailers, campers are treated differently depending on their type, purpose, usage, and size. For example, camping trailers, regardless of their dimensions, must be titled and registered, except for those that collapse or fold down. On the other hand, personal campers do not qualify for a semi-trailer plate, and slide-in campers are not required to be registered.

Campers don't need tags in Tennessee, but you may need them in other states

If you're a proud owner of a camper in Tennessee, you might be wondering if you need to get it tagged. Well, you'll be glad to know that Tennessee does not require tags on trailers, and this includes campers. So, if you're planning to stay within the state, you can rest easy knowing that you won't need to go through the hassle of getting your camper tagged.

However, it's important to note that this exemption is specific to Tennessee, and if you're planning to travel with your camper to other states, you may need to get it tagged. Some states, like Florida, Georgia, and Virginia, are known to require tags on campers or trailers. To avoid any legal troubles while travelling, it's always a good idea to check the specific requirements of your destination state.

In Tennessee, the requirement for titling and registration of trailers depends on their type, purpose, usage, and size. While campers don't need to be tagged, there are specific requirements for other types of trailers. For example, privately owned trailers, including boat trailers, have different registration requirements based on their dimensions. Commercial trailers used for business purposes also have separate registration criteria.

Additionally, it's worth noting that while Tennessee doesn't require tags for campers, there are still some steps you should take to ensure your camper is properly documented. For instance, if you're buying a used camper, it's important to ensure that the previous owner had a clear title and paid the necessary sales tax. This can help you avoid legal complications down the line.

In conclusion, while campers don't need tags in Tennessee, it's important to be aware of the requirements in other states if you plan to travel. By understanding the regulations and taking the necessary steps to document your camper, you can ensure a hassle-free camping experience, whether you're exploring the scenic landscapes of Tennessee or venturing beyond.

Slide-in campers don't need to be registered

In Tennessee, not all trailers are required to be registered. The requirement for registration depends on the trailer's type, purpose, usage, and size. For example, privately-owned trailers under 8' wide x 20' long (excluding tongue) do not need to be registered. On the other hand, camping trailers, regardless of their dimensions, must be registered and titled, except for those that fold down or pop up.

Slide-in campers are a type of camper that is designed to be loaded and unloaded from the bed of a truck. They are also known as truck campers or pickup campers. These campers are considered a type of trailer, and as such, the requirements for registration will depend on the specific regulations set by the state where the camper will be used.

In Tennessee, slide-in campers are explicitly mentioned as not requiring registration. This is stated in the "Vehicle Services County Clerk Guide," which provides information on trailer registration requirements in the state. The guide specifically lists "Slide-In Campers" under the section "Not required to be registered." This means that if you own a slide-in camper in Tennessee, you do not need to go through the process of registering it with the county clerk or pay any associated registration fees.

It is important to note that while slide-in campers may not need to be registered, other types of camping trailers may still have registration requirements. For example, in Tennessee, camping trailers that do not fold down or pop up must be registered and titled. Additionally, if you plan to travel with your slide-in camper to other states, you should check their specific requirements, as some states may have different regulations regarding trailer registration.

To summarize, slide-in campers are a type of trailer that is designed to be loaded and unloaded from the bed of a truck. In Tennessee, slide-in campers are specifically mentioned as not requiring registration. However, it is always a good idea to stay informed about the latest regulations and check with the relevant authorities if you are unsure about the requirements for your specific situation.

Fifth-wheel/camping trailers need to be registered

In Tennessee, not every trailer is required to be registered. Registration requirements are determined by the trailer type, purpose, usage, and/or size.

Fifth-wheel/camping trailers are required to be registered in Tennessee. This is distinct from slide-in campers, which are not required to be registered. Fold-down/pop-up/collapsible trailers are also not required to be registered.

If you are registering a new trailer, you will need a multi-purpose application, MSO (Manufacturer Statement of Origin) or title, dealer invoice, and proof of tax payment. To register a used trailer, you will need a properly assigned Certificate of Title and an odometer disclosure statement (if applicable).

If you are registering a homemade trailer, you will need to request an inspection with the Department of Safety Commercial Vehicle Enforcement. You can find the requirements for a homemade trailer inspection here.

If you are registering a trailer without a VIN, you can find information on the process here.

Note that if you leave Tennessee and travel out of state with your trailer, you will need to have tags on your trailer.

Fold-down/pop-up/collapsible trailers don't need to be registered

In the state of Tennessee, not all trailers are required to be registered. Whether a trailer needs to be registered depends on its type, purpose, usage, and size.

Fold-down/pop-up/collapsible trailers, also known as "pups", are exempt from registration requirements in Tennessee. These trailers are considered recreational vehicles under state law and are typically towed behind motor vehicles. They are compact when being towed but expand once they reach a campsite, providing more space for sleeping and relaxation.

While fold-down/pop-up/collapsible trailers do not need to be registered if used solely within Tennessee, they must be inspected by the Tennessee Department of Safety and obtain a Trailer E license plate from a county clerk's office. This license plate costs $17 and can be personalised. It is important to note that if you plan to use your trailer outside of Tennessee, registration and tags will be required.

In addition to fold-down/pop-up/collapsible trailers, other types of trailers that are not required to be registered in Tennessee include slide-in campers, farm trailers, boat trailers, utility trailers, and trailers used for agricultural purposes or hauling livestock.

Campers must be titled and registered if they are camping trailers

In Tennessee, not every trailer is required to be titled and registered. Whether a trailer must be titled and registered depends on its type, purpose, usage, and/or size.

Camping trailers, for example, generally must be titled and registered, regardless of their dimensions. However, this rule does not apply to camping trailers that collapse or fold down.

Other types of trailers that do not need to be registered include farm, boat, utility trailers, and pop-up/fold-down trailers. Commercial trailers, on the other hand, do require registration.

It's worth noting that the requirements for titling and registration can vary from state to state. While Tennessee may not require tags on trailers, including campers, other states like Georgia, Virginia, and Florida do. Therefore, if you plan to travel with your camper to other states, it is advisable to have the proper registration and tags.

Frequently asked questions