What Are Oklahoma’s Trailer Laws?
Before purchasing a trailer, it is essential to ensure it complies with Oklahoma state laws. Non-compliance may result in fines and penalties and could prevent you from completing your haul.
To help you avoid costly delays or roadblocks, we have outlined Oklahoma’s trailer regulations and what to look for in a compliant trailer.
Maximum Size And Weight Limits
Understanding the size and weight limits is critical to legal towing in Oklahoma. Let’s take a look at some key requirements:
How Long of a Trailer Can I Legally Pull?
The trailer can be no longer than 45 feet, and the trailer and tow vehicle cannot exceed 65 feet.
Other Dimensional Requirements
- Width: No wider than 102 inches
- Height: No taller than 13 feet 6 inches
- Weight: Must not exceed your towing vehicle’s capacity (See our detailed guide on trailer weight for more information)
Oklahoma Trailer Light Laws
Oklahoma requires trailers to be equipped with the following lights to ensure safety & visibility:
- Taillights: Two red taillights must be mounted on the rear. They must be visible from 1,000 feet and placed between 15 inches and 72 inches in height.
- Brake Lights: Two brake lights that activate when the trailer brakes engage.
- Turn Signals: Functioning turn signal lights are mandatory.
- Side Reflectors: Reflectors must be present on the front and rear sides of the trailer.
- License Plate Light: A light must illuminate the trailer’s license plate.
- Side Marker Lights: Trailers wider than 30 inches require side marker lights.
Brake System Requirements
Brake requirements in Oklahoma vary based on the trailer’s weight:
| Trailer Weight | Brake System Requirements |
| GVWR >/= 3,000 pounds | Must have brakes on at least one axle that:Provide effective control for movement, stopping, and holding the trailerCan be operated from the towing vehicleAutomatically apply in the event of the trailer being disconnected from the towing vehicle (breakaway brakes) |
| GVWR < 3,000 pounds | Do not require brakes unless the towed vehicle’s weight exceeds 40% of the towing vehicle’s GVWR |
Hitch, Safety Chains, And Coupling Devices
To prevent trailer separation on the road, Oklahoma law requires:
- Safety Chains: Chains must be securely attached to both the trailer and the towing vehicle. Always inspect chains before towing to ensure they are in good condition.
- Hitches and Couplings: These must provide a strong, reliable connection capable of supporting the trailer’s load without risk of failure.
Oklahoma Trailer Registration Requirements
In Oklahoma, the following trailer types require either a title, registration, or both:
| Trailer Type | Title or Registration |
| Travel Trailer | Both |
| Private Trailers | Registration optional |
| Farm Trailers | Registration optional |
Please note: Title and registration are not required for private or farm trailers, but they can be registered if you choose to.
Does a Small Utility Trailer Need to be Registered?
No, you can register them, but they don’t have to be registered, unless they are being towed for commercial purposes.
Do Trailers Need Insurance in Oklahoma?
Not usually. As long as the towing vehicle is insured, it should be fine. However, insurance is generally recommended if you’re towing a travel trailer.
Do trailers need license plates in Oklahoma?
This depends on whether or not the trailer needs to be registered. Private trailers, such as agricultural, boat, and utility trailers, used for personal purposes, are not required to be registered and, therefore, do not require a license plate.
However, trailers used for commercial purposes must be registered and, therefore, have a license plate.
Commercial Trailer Laws in Oklahoma
Oklahoma commercial trailers are typically subject to different requirements than those being towed for personal use. The differences are as follows:
- Must they be tagged: Yes
- Must they be registered: Yes
- CDL Required: It depends on the combined weight of the trailer & towing vehicle
Let’s break down some of these requirements in more detail.
How To Register a Commercial Trailer in Oklahoma
You can register a commercial trailer by:
- Visiting the Transportation Division for fleet and trailer registration.
- Registering and titling with Service Oklahoma or a Motor License Agent.
- Purchasing a 72-hour commercial trip permit for temporary or transit use.
You will need to provide proof of ownership and insurance and pay the applicable fees: $48 for the first year and $6 for each subsequent year.
| Department | Contact |
| Transportation Division | (405)-521-3036 |
| Service Oklahoma | (405)-522-7000 |
| Motor License Agent | Agents |
CDL Requirements for Commercial Trailers in Oklahoma
A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is required in Oklahoma if you plan to operate a combination vehicle (trailer and towing vehicle) that has a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the GVWR of the vehicle being towed is more than 10,000 pounds. Different CDLs are required as follows:
| CDL Class | Requirements |
| Class A | A combo of vehicles where the GVWR of the vehicle and trailer combine to equal 26,001 pounds or more, AND the trailer’s GVWR is 10,001 pounds or more. |
| Class B | A single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more. These vehicles CAN pull a trailer if the GVWR of the trailer is LESS than 10,001 pounds. |
| Class C | A single vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds that is carrying hazardous materials or more than 16 passengers. |
What Are the Penalties for Non-Compliance?
Depending on the rules you violate, as listed above, the following penalties could apply:
- Fines
- Vehicle impoundment
- Potential misdemeanor charges & imprisonment
The best way to avoid these penalties is to ensure compliance with Oklahoma trailer laws. To do this, contact the Motor Carrier & Motor Vehicle Enforcement Division.
Find A Trailer That Complies With Oklahoma’s Trailer Laws
If you want to avoid the penalties above and find a trailer that complies with Oklahoma trailer laws, it’s important to search for one in the right place. Below, we’ll review the key compliance requirements and highlight trailers in Oklahoma that comply with state laws.
What to Look For In a Compliant Trailer
For a quick review, trailers in Oklahoma must meet the following requirements:
- Length: 45 feet for trailer, 65 feet for trailer & towing vehicle combo
- Width: 102 inches
- Height: 13 feet 6 inches
- Weight must not exceed the capacity of the towing vehicle
- Proper tail lights, brake lights, license plate light, and reflectors
- Properly rated hitch & safety chains
- Proper brakes for a trailer over 3,000 pounds
To make it simpler to find a trailer that meets these requirements, Arrow Trail offers a downloadable spec sheet for all its trailer models so you can easily check for each of these requirements.
Browse Legal Trailer Options
All the trailers below comply with Oklahoma trailer laws and are built to suit a wide range of purposes, so you’ll find what you need.
Get Expert Help Before You Buy
Do you need a local expert to help you find a trailer that complies with state laws? Our Oklahoma-based dealer, Top Country Sales, is based in Paden, OK, and is happy to help you find a trailer that meets your needs and complies with local laws.
As an authorized supplier of Arrow Trail products, Top Country Sales offers long-lasting trailers built with compliance in mind so that you can find the best fit for your next haul.
Want to inspect the trailers yourself? View each trailer model to find a downloadable spec sheet outlining how our trailers comply with height, width, length, weight, brake system, lighting, and other essential trailer requirements.
You can also stop by Top Country Sales to explore the trailer models they have in stock.