Just like when driving a car, there are certain rules of the road that you must follow when towing a trailer. Rules can vary depending on whether you’re operating the trailer for personal or commercial purposes. There are also several requirements regarding trailer safety, registration, licensing, and more. To help you navigate this web of trailer laws, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of legal requirements to consider when purchasing a trailer.
As is the case with most laws, it’s essential to check with local authorities as rules can vary from county to city within Kentucky. If you have any questions at all, we’re happy to help!
Trailer Dimension Laws
According to Title 603, Chapter 5, Regulation 70 of the Kentucky General Assembly, there are specific dimensions your trailer must follow. These are:
- Height: The trailer, including its load, must not exceed 13 feet and 6 inches.
- Width: The maximum width is 8 feet, excluding exempted safety devices.
- Length: A maximum of 65 feet for the vehicle and trailer combined.
Certain safety divides are excluded from being counted in the total width, including:
- Rearview Mirrors
- Turn Signal Lamps
- Handholds for Cab Entry/Egress
- Splash & Spray Suppressant Devices
- Load-Induced Tire Bulges
Additionally, these items are excluded from the overall width, so long as they do not extend beyond 3 inches from the vehicle’s sides:
- Corner Caps
- Door Hinges & Protective Hardware
- Rain Gutters
- Side Marker Lamps
- Tarp Hardware
- Tie-Down Assemblies
- Wall Variations
- Weevil Pins or Sockets on Low-Bed Trailers
If you need a trailer that complies with these specifications, explore our range of trailer sizes or check out our trailer sizes guide to find exactly what you need.
Trailer Weight Limits
In addition to specific dimensions, there are also particular weight requirements your trailer must follow, such as:
- Single-Axle: 20,000 pounds
- Tandem Axles: 34,000 pounds
- Tridem Axles: 48,000 pounds
- Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): Combined weight of vehicle and load must not exceed 80,000 pounds
To learn more about trailer weight and dimension requirements, visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s website.
Trailer Brake Laws
There are some general braking requirements you must follow in Kentucky. These include:
- Brake System Requirements: Trailers with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) over 3,000 pounds must have service brakes on all wheels.
- Emergency Brakes: Trailers must have an emergency brake system that activates if the trailer gets disconnected from the towing vehicle.
- Brake Performance: The braking system must be capable of stopping the trailer within specified distances, depending on the trailer’s weight or speed.
Contact the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet or your local authorities for more details on specific braking laws.
Trailer Lighting & Signaling Requirements
Kentucky has adopted trailer signal requirements outlined in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. These outline rules for turn signals, brake lights, hazard lights, and more, stating that:
- Turn Signals: Must be amber or red in color, depending on their placement, and must be visible from a specified distance.
- Brake Lights: Must be visible from the rear for a distance of at least 500 feet and clearly indicate that the vehicle is coming to a stop.
- Hazard Lights: The trailer must also have hazard lights that can be activated in the case of an emergency.
- Reflectors & Marker Lights: Trailers need to have red and amber reflectors and side marker lights to enhance visibility from the side.
- Reverse Lights: Reverse lights or sounds may be required to signify that your trailer is backing up depending on its size or application.
As always, the best point of contact to certify requirements is your local officials or the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.
To comply with trailer lighting requirements, check out our comprehensive guide on trailer lights. We offer a range of trailer lights you can add to your trailer to ensure complete compliance.
Trailer Hitch Laws
All trailers must be securely attached to the towing vehicle using a properly rated hitch or coupling system. In addition, safety chains must be used to connect the trailer to the towing vehicle as a backup in case the primary hitch fails.
Selecting the appropriate trailer hitch is essential for meeting safety standards and ensuring a secure connection. If you’re unsure which hitch is best for your setup, consult this guide on choosing the right trailer hitch.
Trailer Title
All trailers in Kentucky must be titled in Kentucky, regardless of what they’re being used to haul. Titles are processed by the Department of Transportation and can take between 4-6 weeks arrive, or within 4 to 5 when an additional fee is paid for it to be expedited.
To apply for a title, visit your local County Clerk’s office and bring the following:
- Proof of Kentucky Insurance (issue date within 45 days)
- Kentucky Photo ID or Social Security Card
- Signed over Kentucky Title
- If the name on your title differs from the name on your ID, you must provide an affidavit showing they are the same, like a marriage license or divorce decree.
You can learn more about vehicle titling through the Kentucky Department of Transportation (DOT).
Trailer Registration
Registration is not required for privately owned or operated trailers being used to haul boats, luggage, personal effects, farm products, farm suppliers, or farm equipment. All commercial trailers require registration.
To apply for registration or renew it, visit your local County Clerk’s office and bring:
- Your Kentucky Photo ID
- Original (not copy) Proof of Kentucky Insurance With Effective Date Within 45 Days
- Money for Fees & Taxes
- Vehicles Brought into Kentucky from Another State Will Require a Sheriff’s Inspection
To clarify if registration is required for your trailer, contact the Kentucky DOT.
Does My Trailer Need A License Plate in Kentucky?
A license plate is typically not required if your trailer is being used for personal purposes. However, all commercial trailers require a license plate. For clarification on whether your trailer requires a license plate, contact the Kentucky DOT.
Do I Need A Special License To Haul A Trailer in Kentucky?
You may need a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) if your trailer and towing vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is above a certain amount. The CDL requirements based on GVWR are as follows:
- Class A CDL: GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the GVWR of the vehicle (s) being towed is more than 10,000 pounds.
- Class B CDL: Any vehicle with two or more axles and a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, pulling a vehicle with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less.
Looking For A Trailer That Meets All of Kentucky’s Legal Requirements?
As we’ve outlined in this article, trailer lighting, braking systems, GVWR, and dimensions are all legal requirements set by the Kentucky Department of Transportation. These regulations are in place to keep your trailer road-safe, reduce the risk of accidents, and help ensure your cargo arrives safely.
At Four Winds Trailers, your safety is our top priority. That’s why every trailer we sell comes equipped with essential safety features to keep you compliant with Kentucky law. With a wide range of trailer sizes available, you’re sure to find the right fit to meet your hauling and dimension requirements.
Browse our inventory today or contact us to find a road-ready trailer that meets your needs.