Who Should Sign The Title Of A Camper?

When it comes to the legal requirements for owning a camper, the process can vary depending on the state in which you reside. In some states, campers are considered part of the vehicle and may require their own title and registration, while in others, they are exempt from these requirements. It is important to understand the specific regulations in your state to ensure compliance.

One key aspect to consider is the distinction between traditional campers, such as travel trailers, and truck campers. Traditional campers are typically towed behind a vehicle, while truck campers are designed to be loaded onto the bed of a pickup truck. This difference can impact how they are classified and regulated.

To establish legal ownership and register your camper, you may need to provide certain documents, including a manufacturer's statement of origin, bill of sale, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) verification. It is recommended to consult your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or relevant authorities to determine the specific requirements and procedures for obtaining titles and registration for your camper.

Truck campers are considered vehicles or cargo

The classification of truck campers varies depending on the region. In North America, the term "truck camper" is commonly used to refer to recreational vehicles (RVs) that can be transported in the bed of a pickup truck. In contrast, English-speaking European countries often use the term "demountable" or "dismountable", while Australians refer to them as "slide-on" or "jack-off" campers.

In the majority of US states, truck campers are not registered or titled and are therefore not considered recreational vehicles. Instead, they are typically classified as cargo or a truck accessory. This distinction is important because it determines the documentation and regulations that apply to truck campers.

However, there are a few states in the US that require truck campers to be registered, titled, or both. These requirements vary from state to state, and it's essential to check with the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or relevant authorities to understand the specific rules in your area.

The unique configuration of truck campers, where they are loaded onto the bed of a pickup truck, sets them apart from traditional campers, such as travel trailers, that are towed behind a vehicle. This distinction blurs the line between considering truck campers as vehicles or cargo.

To clarify the ownership and legal status of a truck camper, it is recommended to obtain a Certificate of Origin or a similar document from the manufacturer. This document will contain the camper's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or an equivalent identification number and will serve as proof of ownership when buying or selling the camper.

State-specific requirements for truck camper titles

The requirements for titling a truck camper vary from state to state. Here is a list of state-specific requirements for truck camper titles in the United States:

• Alabama: Requires an RV title for vehicles weighing more than 3,000 lbs.
• Alaska: Does not require an RV title.
• Arizona: Requires an RV title.
• Arkansas: Requires an RV title.
• California: Requires an RV title.
• Colorado: Requires an RV title for motorized recreational vehicles with a gross weight of more than 4,500 pounds.
• Connecticut: Requires an RV title.
• Delaware: Requires RV owners to title their vehicles.
• Florida: Requires an RV title.
• Georgia: Requires an RV title.
• Hawaii: Requires an RV title.
• Idaho: Requires an RV title.
• Illinois: Requires an official title for all recreational vehicles.
• Indiana: Requires a title for RVs.
• Iowa: Requires an RV title.
• Kansas: Has specific laws and regulations for titling an RV.
• Kentucky: Requires an RV title.
• Louisiana: Requires RV owners to register their vehicle and obtain a title.
• Maine: Requires an RV title.
• Maryland: Does not require an RV title.
• Massachusetts: Requires an RV title.
• Michigan: Requires an RV title.
• Minnesota: Requires an RV title.
• Mississippi: Requires an RV title.
• Missouri: Requires all motor vehicles, including recreational vehicles, to be titled and registered.
• Montana: Requires an RV title for vehicles with a gross weight of 4,501 pounds or more.
• Nebraska: Requires a title for recreational vehicles.
• Nevada: Requires RV owners to register their vehicle and obtain a title.
• New Hampshire: Requires an RV title.
• New Jersey: Requires an RV title.
• New Mexico: Requires an RV title, with some exceptions for certain counties.
• New York: Requires an application for titling and registration.
• North Carolina: Requires an RV title for vehicles operated on public roadways or stored away from the owner's residence.
• North Dakota: Requires an RV title.
• Ohio: Requires an RV title.
• Oregon: Requires an RV title.
• Pennsylvania: Requires a valid VIN number to issue a title.
• Rhode Island: Requires all recreational vehicles to be titled.
• South Carolina: Requires an RV title.
• South Dakota: Does not require an RV title for vehicles under 16 feet in length and weighing 3,000 pounds or less.
• Tennessee: Requires an RV title.
• Texas: Requires an RV title for motorized vehicles.
• Utah: Requires an RV title.
• Vermont: Requires an RV title.
• Virginia: Requires RV owners to title their vehicles.
• Washington: Does not require a title for recreational vehicles.
• West Virginia: Requires an RV title.
• Wisconsin: Requires an RV title.
• Wyoming: Requires an RV title.

How to get a title for your truck camper

The process of getting a title for your truck camper can vary depending on your state's regulations. While some states require truck campers to have titles, others may exempt them. Here are the steps to obtain a title for your truck camper:

Verify State Requirements:

Firstly, it is crucial to check your state's specific requirements for registering and titling truck campers. Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website or contact them directly to confirm the necessary steps.

Gather Documents:

Collect the necessary documents, which may include:

• Manufacturer's statement of origin (MSO)
• Bill of sale
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) verification
• Certificate of Origin
• Certificate of Inspection (from the Department of Transportation or an authorized RV dealership)
• Lien status document

Complete Forms:

Download and fill out the required DMV forms, which typically include an application for title and registration. Some states may have additional requirements, so be sure to check with your local DMV.

Visit the DMV:

Head to your local DMV office with your completed forms, documentation, and payment for any applicable fees, such as title, registration, and taxes.

VIN Inspection:

If necessary, a DMV official will inspect your camper to verify the VIN. This ensures that the camper's legal situation is clear and that it is not stolen or on a lien.

Receive Title and Registration:

Once your application has been processed and approved, you will receive the title and registration for your truck camper. The title proves your ownership, while the registration allows you to legally operate the camper on public roads.

Display License Plates:

Follow the regulations set by your state and display the issued license plates on your truck camper. Ensure they are securely mounted and visible, adhering to any placement guidelines provided by the DMV.

Rules for displaying license plates on truck campers

The rules for displaying license plates on truck campers vary across different states in the US. In some states, truck campers are considered recreational vehicles and are subject to separate registration and licensing from the truck. In other states, truck campers are seen as cargo and do not require separate registration.

Regardless of the classification, ensuring that the license plate is visible from a reasonable distance is crucial. Some truck campers may have an overhang that obscures the truck's license plate, which can result in tickets for having an obscured plate. To address this issue, you can consider the following options:

• Obtain two license plates for your truck, placing one on the truck and the other on the camper. This option is ideal if your state provides two license plates or if you can order an additional plate or a personalized license plate.
• Switch the license plate between the truck and the camper each time you load or unload the camper. While this option can be inconvenient, it ensures compliance with the law.
• Create a laminated copy of the license plate and mount it on the camper. However, it is important to note that photocopying a license plate may be illegal in some states, so be sure to check your local laws before choosing this option.

It is important to consult the specific regulations in your state regarding the display of license plates on truck campers to ensure compliance with the law and avoid any potential issues while on the road.

Insurance requirements for truck campers

While truck campers are not required to be insured in any state, it is highly recommended to get insurance for your camper. This is because insurance protects against unforeseen events, accidents, and liabilities. You can add your truck camper to your existing truck insurance policy, or get a separate policy for your camper.

Total Loss Replacement

If your truck camper is totaled in a covered accident, some insurance companies will pay for a new one, minus your deductible. For example, if you bought a slide-in truck camper for $30,000 three years ago, and it is now valued at $20,000, with total loss replacement coverage, your insurance company might pay you $35,000 on your claim because they guarantee the same model year or later. If your truck camper is more than five years old, they will cover the amount specified on your declaration page. A deductible will apply.

Replacement Cost/Personal Effects

You can choose limits of up to $99,000 in coverage for personal property lost or damaged inside your truck camper. Coverage may extend to certain items outside your camper.

Roadside Assistance

If your towing vehicle is disabled within 100 feet of a road or highway, some insurance companies can cover a mechanical or electrical breakdown, dead battery, or flat tire. They can also provide fuel delivery or assistance if you're stuck in snow, mud, or sand.

When it comes to insurance for your truck camper, it is important to know your camper's worth, how often you use it, and that you can increase your deductibles for a lower price.

Frequently asked questions