Forum Discussion

rob_h's avatar
rob_h
Explorer
Aug 06, 2016

Trailer from different state to tow vehicle?

Is it possible (legal) for a travel trailer to have license plates from a different state (or even country) than the tow vehicle?

I live in Baja California, Mexico, and my SUV is registered there. I'm considering getting a small travel trailer and using it only in the US and Canada during trips there (I have a place I can store it).

Since Baja has complicated rules for importing vehicles (including trailers), and I don't want to keep having to drag the trailer down to Mexico for renewals, it would be nice if I could register (and insure) the trailer somewhere in the US or Canada instead.

I'm British, so I'm not a resident of any part of the US or Canada, and I'd have to pick a state that allows the registration by a non-resident. But that's still probably easier than dealing with importing the trailer to Mexico.

This would be similar to somebody from Canada having a trailer in Arizona or Florida that they register and leave there and just drive around the US with it in the winter. Can this be done?

Most state and province web sites are not much help for this question (I've looked), as they assume you're a resident of that state.

Thanks

Rob
  • RoyB's avatar
    RoyB
    Explorer II
    I think you will raise a RED FLAG with the LAW ENFORCEMENT folks. They always perk up when they see different States associated with one vehicle... So keep your trailer registration paperwork handy to show them... They would get real excited if they see a FLORIDA plate on the front and a MAINE plate on the rear of your truck.

    I think the common sense thing to do is have the Drivers license and Vehicle/Trailer Plate's registration all from the same State or Country. That is the rule I follow here with my RV units here in Virginia...

    I would check-in with the California Department of Transportation
    Joint Port of Entry and hear what they have to say since this will be your first State coming into from Mexico... Getting hear-say info from all of us on here is probably not the best solution...

    Roy Ken
  • There is no issue with your toe vehicle and trailer being registered in different places. Happens all the time.

    Your biggest issue is going to be trying to register whichever one you want in the different state since you will have to do their requirements. I know some states require you to have a physical address in their state as others say a P.O. Box is fine.

    Good luck