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redhat9's avatar
redhat9
Explorer
Jan 18, 2021

Do you need Commercial Plates in NY to tow a trailer?

Good morning, I came across this forum and like what I see -- an easy to view website and a wealth of knowledge.

I have a 2019 F-150, SuperCab with 6.5ft box, 2.7 EcoBoost and 10-speed automatic. I plan to mainly tow either a car-hauler with my G-body, 24-ft camping trailer and/or snowmobile/ATV trailer in the future. I am planning on putting airbags in the rear to air up when needed. I am not planning on towing anything ever too crazy, but nothing that I think would overwhelm the little EcoBoost.

I am in New York State, specifically Western New York. Currently the truck is registered with Passenger Plates. I have heard that with Passenger Plates you could be ticketed for hauling a trailer. Is this true? If that is the case, I would plan to get Commercial Plates. I am not too concerned with any restrictions on parkways or certain use roads. I am in a Rural area, and any time I would be on a restricted use road would be in either my Honda Accord or wife's Tahoe.

Thanks for your help.
  • Your most accurate answers would come from your state's DMV website or in person questions.
    My GUESS, would be that you are ok, all personal use, no compensation received. Trailer actual or GVWR, may also come into play.

    Ken
  • IMHO, short bed and long cab is just a car without a deck-lid.
  • I would bet that passenger cars are allowed to tow things, so why not your funny looking big passenger car?