In several states, the maximum length of a towed trailer is 40 feet. The only states with requirements shorter than that are Louisiana (30 feet), Massachusetts (33 feet), and North Carolina (35 feet). Nearly half of the states allow lengths longer than 40 feet, with the longest being in Wyoming, where a trailer can be 60 feet. If you will be traveling through several different states, a 40-foot trailer is considered the norm.
The reason states have a height limit for travel trailers is to account for driving through tunnels or under overpasses or train tracks. Nebraska has the highest limit, at 14.6 feet, while some states have trailer height limits as low as 13 feet. If your trailer is more than 13 feet tall, it is vitally important that you are cognizant of any low bridges along your route, even in states where the legal height is higher than your trailer. It is not unusual for older bridges and tunnels to have been designed for passenger vehicles, and these may pose a severe risk to vehicles over 11 feet high. Conform to the laws, but also be aware of posted height restrictions along your route.
According to the Towing World website, more than half of all states have brake requirements. More than half a dozen states require brakes on travel trailers weighing more than 3,000 pounds, while others set higher weight limits. In some areas, whether brakes are required on the travel trailer is subjective, because the requirement is waived when the towing vehicle has sufficient braking power. Because these laws vary so widely, it is a good idea to check with the DMV of any state you may be passing through, just to avoid an unpleasant surprise along the way.
Though not all states require brakes on the trailer, all states do require the use of brake lights, turn signals and running lights. When towing a trailer, be sure that your light assembly is connected, and take the time to verify your lights are in good working order occasionally along your trip. Faulty lights create the potential for collision, not to mention the hefty citations that you can be given.
