Travel Trailer Inspection in Texas

bstar1952 wrote:
Anyone had to renew their TT registration in Texas since 1 March? I tried today and was told the TT had to be inspected before I could renew. From what I was told, everything is in a database now. What a bunch of BS, I've owned a TT for over 20 years and never had to get it inspected. Took it to a regular inspection station and the guy didn't have a clue what to inspect,just looked at the lights and tires. IMO, this is just another way to squeeze a "little more" from us. I am truly disgusted.

So for 20 years you have been in violation of the law. So what are you disgusted about? 4,500 GVWR trailers have always required a safety inspection as far as I can recall, not sure when it actually came about. Most, not all, RV places should be able to handle the inspection for you.

zmanmike wrote:
Just had my trailer inspected here in El Paso, TX. There's no need to take it to an RV shop or truck stop, your regular yearly inspection station will do it.

I concur with this. I called my local inspection station (Kwik Kar) and they confirmed they can do it. It is a simple safety inspection.

Major Dad wrote:

legolas wrote:

Mr. Camper wrote:
I agree. To explain why would be a political answer and the moderators are intolerant of such things. Texas is the only location I've been forced to travel through and constantly run into hassles unlike every state in the union. To my knowledge they are also one of two states whom constantly speak of leaving the United States.

I have been through Texas a number of times and never had a problem. Could it be that you are a member of the "over 65 mph at any time" club. Just sayin..

There is no longer a lower speed limit for RVs, trucks, etc. in Texas. That being said, I don't exceed the 65 mph speed limit my trailer tires impose on me because I don't want to be the main course at a buzzard buffet on a lonely West Texas highway!

As far as Texas seceding, we wouldn't do that because the rest of the country is too dependent upon us! :B

Amen to that

Just had my trailer inspected here in El Paso, TX. There's no need to take it to an RV shop or truck stop, your regular yearly inspection station will do it.

Remember that inspections stickers are no longer being issued. Keep your inspection report handy as now that your vehicle (car, truck, trailer...) no longer has an inspection sticker, you will be a target for law enforcement. Already heard of several people stopped due to the no sticker.

legolas wrote:

Mr. Camper wrote:
I agree. To explain why would be a political answer and the moderators are intolerant of such things. Texas is the only location I've been forced to travel through and constantly run into hassles unlike every state in the union. To my knowledge they are also one of two states whom constantly speak of leaving the United States.

I have been through Texas a number of times and never had a problem. Could it be that you are a member of the "over 65 mph at any time" club. Just sayin..

There is no longer a lower speed limit for RVs, trucks, etc. in Texas. That being said, I don't exceed the 65 mph speed limit my trailer tires impose on me because I don't want to be the main course at a buzzard buffet on a lonely West Texas highway!

As far as Texas seceding, we wouldn't do that because the rest of the country is too dependent upon us! :B

Mr. Camper wrote:
I agree. To explain why would be a political answer and the moderators are intolerant of such things. Texas is the only location I've been forced to travel through and constantly run into hassles unlike every state in the union. To my knowledge they are also one of two states whom constantly speak of leaving the United States.

I have been through Texas a number of times and never had a problem. Could it be that you are a member of the "over 65 mph at any time" club. Just sayin..

I believe that line would be for motorhomes only.

Window tint on a trailer???

bstar1952 wrote:
Anyone had to renew their TT registration in Texas since 1 March? I tried today and was told the TT had to be inspected before I could renew. From what I was told, everything is in a database now. What a bunch of BS, I've owned a TT for over 20 years and never had to get it inspected. Took it to a regular inspection station and the guy didn't have a clue what to inspect,just looked at the lights and tires. IMO, this is just another way to squeeze a "little more" from us. I am truly disgusted.

Texas has always required a trailer safety inspection. The regular inspector should have had a clue if he has an inspection license. It is spelled out by DPS here:

05.06 Inspect All Trailers, Semitrailers, Pole Trailers, or Mobile Homes Exceeding 4,500 Pounds Actual Gross Weight or Registered Weight For: (Listed in suggested order of inspection) Refer to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, if required.

* Check for evidence of Financial Responsibility on towing vehicle

1. Brakes (system) (If gross weight exceeds 4,500 pounds)
2. Tires
3. Wheel Assembly
4. Safety Guards or Flaps (if four tires or more on rearmost axle) Pole trailers exempt.
5. Tail Lamps (2)
6. Stop Lamps (2)
7. License Plate Lamp (1)
8. Rear Red Reflectors (2)
9. Turn Signal Lamps
10. Clearance Lamps
11. Side Marker Lamps
12. Side Reflectors
13. Side Marker Lamps and Reflectors (30 feet or more in overall length)
(Refer to Reference Section as per lighting diagrams and as applicable to the particular trailer being inspected.)
14. Serial or Vehicle Identification Number
15. Window Tint.
It is not a bunch of BS, it is the same as for autos, to try to keep the unsafe vehicles off the road.

Well, in Michigan, we have no inspections for anything ever, and for all trailers we buy the plate and thats it. For as long as you own it no more fees. NICE!!