Trailer Requirements Explained by Minnesota State Trooper

Key rules for towing, width, length, brakes, and registration for recreational vehicles and trailers in Minnesota.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 12:05pm

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A Minnesota State Trooper provides detailed guidance on the legal requirements for pulling trailers, including rules around trailer width, length, brakes, lighting, registration, and safety chains. The information covers both recreational vehicles and general trailers over 3,000 pounds.

Why it matters

Properly understanding and following trailer regulations is crucial for safe towing and avoiding citations or accidents on Minnesota roads. This advice from a state trooper helps drivers ensure their trailers are road-legal and their vehicles are in compliance.

The details

Trailer stop and turn signals must be used for night driving and whenever stop and turn signals on the towing vehicle are not visible to other drivers. The 102-inch width limit for recreational vehicles does not include attachments that do not extend beyond the vehicle's exterior rearview mirrors, if the RV is self-propelled. The width of a trailer may not extend beyond the exterior rearview mirrors of the towing vehicle. Type A, B or C motor homes may not be longer than 45 feet, while the general length limit for single-unit vehicles is 40 feet. All trailers with a gross vehicle weight of 3,000 pounds or more must be equipped with brakes. All recreational trailers must have a clearly visible plate with current registration. A safety chain must be permanently attached to the trailer and fastened to the vehicle used for towing.

  • The information was provided in an article published on April 6, 2026.

The players

Trp. Jesse Grabow

A Minnesota State Patrol trooper who provided the trailer requirement details in response to a reader question.

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What they’re saying

“If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205.”

— Trp. Jesse Grabow, Minnesota State Patrol Trooper

The takeaway

Drivers in Minnesota need to carefully review and follow the state's specific regulations around trailer width, length, brakes, lighting, registration, and safety equipment to ensure their vehicles and trailers are road-legal and safe. Consulting with state troopers like Trp. Grabow is an effective way for drivers to get authoritative guidance on these important rules of the road.