What States Require Trailer Insurance?

Last Updated on January 7, 2026 by Aliya Amber

Trailer insurance is one of the most misunderstood areas of vehicle coverage in the United States. Many drivers assume that if they own a trailer, insurance is either automatically included or not required at all. Others believe every trailer must be insured separately, regardless of size or use. The reality sits somewhere in between, and the rules vary widely depending on the state, the type of trailer, how it is used, and whether it is motorized or non-motorized. Understanding what states require trailer insurance is essential not only to stay compliant with the law but also to protect yourself financially in the event of an accident, theft, or damage.

This guide explains in detail which states require trailer insurance, when insurance is legally mandatory versus optional, how different trailer types are treated, and why relying solely on your auto policy may not always be enough. Whether you tow a utility trailer occasionally, own a boat trailer, operate a commercial trailer, or live full-time in a travel trailer, knowing your state’s insurance requirements can prevent fines, registration issues, and costly out-of-pocket losses.

Also Explore: What Happens If You Get Into An Accident Without Insurance

Understanding Trailer Insurance Basics

Trailer insurance is designed to cover trailers that are not self-propelled and must be towed by another vehicle. This includes utility trailers, cargo trailers, boat trailers, travel trailers, camper trailers, horse trailers, and some commercial trailers. Because trailers do not have engines, many states treat them differently than cars, trucks, or motorcycles.

In most cases, liability coverage for a trailer is extended through the insurance policy of the towing vehicle. This means if your trailer causes damage to another vehicle or person while being towed, your auto insurance liability coverage may apply. However, this does not mean the trailer itself is protected. Physical damage to the trailer, theft, vandalism, or damage when it is parked and not attached to a vehicle are often not covered unless you carry separate trailer insurance.

State insurance laws focus primarily on liability protection for others, not protection for your own property. This distinction is key to understanding why some states require trailer insurance while others do not.

Why Trailer Insurance Laws Differ by State

Insurance requirements for trailers are governed by state law, and each state defines financial responsibility differently. Some states require insurance on any vehicle registered for road use, while others only require insurance on motorized vehicles. Because trailers are non-motorized, many states do not require them to carry separate insurance policies.

States that do require trailer insurance typically do so for specific trailer types, such as large trailers, commercial trailers, or trailers used as residences. Other states require insurance indirectly by requiring registration, titling, or proof of financial responsibility for certain trailers.

This variation means there is no single national rule. Instead, drivers must understand how their state classifies trailers and what insurance obligations come with that classification.

States That Require Trailer Insurance in Some Form

While most states do not require separate trailer insurance for standard personal trailers, some states do impose insurance requirements depending on usage, size, or classification.

States That Require Insurance for Registered or Titled Trailers

Some states require trailers to be registered and titled, and insurance may be required as part of that registration process. In these states, larger trailers or trailers used on public roads regularly may require proof of insurance.

In these cases, insurance may not be required for every trailer, but it becomes mandatory once the trailer exceeds a certain weight or value or is used commercially.

States That Require Trailer Insurance for Commercial Use

Several states require insurance for trailers used in commercial operations. If a trailer is used for business purposes, hauling goods, transporting equipment, or generating income, it may fall under commercial vehicle insurance laws.

Commercial trailer insurance is often required regardless of whether the trailer is motorized. This requirement exists to ensure adequate liability coverage due to the increased risk associated with commercial transport.

States That Require Insurance for Travel Trailers or RV-Style Trailers

Some states require insurance for trailers that function as living spaces, such as travel trailers, fifth-wheel trailers, and park model trailers. These are often treated differently than utility trailers because they have higher values and pose greater risks if damaged or involved in accidents.

In certain states, travel trailers must be insured if they are financed, used as primary residences, or registered as recreational vehicles.

States That Do NOT Require Separate Trailer Insurance

The majority of U.S. states do not require separate insurance for personal, non-commercial trailers. In these states, liability coverage from the towing vehicle typically extends to the trailer while it is in use.

However, “not required” does not mean “not recommended.” Even in these states, drivers may still face financial risk if their trailer is damaged, stolen, or causes damage not fully covered by the towing vehicle’s policy.

State-by-State Overview of Trailer Insurance Requirements

Below is a detailed breakdown of how trailer insurance is generally treated across the United States. While specific details can vary, this overview reflects common legal interpretations and enforcement practices.

Alabama

Alabama does not require separate trailer insurance for personal trailers. Liability coverage is usually extended through the towing vehicle. Commercial trailers may require insurance depending on usage.

Alaska

Alaska does not mandate insurance for non-motorized trailers. However, insurance is strongly recommended due to harsh weather and higher accident risks.

Arizona

Arizona does not require separate insurance for personal trailers. Commercial trailers may require coverage.

Arkansas

Arkansas does not require trailer insurance for personal use. Towing vehicle liability typically applies.

California

California does not require separate insurance for standard trailers, but trailers must be registered. Commercial and large trailers may fall under additional insurance rules.

Colorado

Colorado does not mandate trailer insurance for personal trailers. Liability coverage generally extends from the towing vehicle.

Connecticut

Connecticut may require insurance for certain types of trailers, especially if they are registered as recreational vehicles or used commercially.

Delaware

Delaware does not require separate trailer insurance for personal trailers.

Florida

Florida does not require insurance for non-motorized trailers. However, travel trailers used as residences may require insurance under different classifications.

Georgia

Georgia does not require separate trailer insurance for personal use.

Hawaii

Hawaii does not mandate trailer insurance but requires registration for most trailers.

Idaho

Idaho does not require trailer insurance for personal trailers.

Illinois

Illinois does not require insurance for non-motorized trailers. Commercial trailers may require coverage.

Indiana

Indiana does not mandate separate trailer insurance.

Iowa

Iowa does not require trailer insurance for personal trailers.

Kansas

Kansas does not require separate trailer insurance.

Kentucky

Kentucky does not mandate trailer insurance.

Louisiana

Louisiana does not require trailer insurance for personal trailers but has strict registration requirements.

Maine

Maine does not require separate insurance for trailers, but higher-value trailers may benefit from coverage.

Maryland

Maryland generally does not require trailer insurance, but registration rules apply.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts does not require insurance for non-motorized trailers.

Michigan

Michigan does not require trailer insurance for personal use.

Minnesota

Minnesota does not require separate insurance for trailers.

Mississippi

Mississippi does not mandate trailer insurance.

Missouri

Missouri does not require insurance for non-motorized trailers.

Montana

Montana does not require trailer insurance for personal use.

Nebraska

Nebraska does not mandate trailer insurance.

Nevada

Nevada does not require trailer insurance, but trailers must be registered.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire does not require trailer insurance.

New Jersey

New Jersey does not mandate separate insurance for trailers.

New Mexico

New Mexico does not require trailer insurance.

New York

New York does not require separate trailer insurance, but trailers must be registered and titled.

North Carolina

North Carolina does not mandate trailer insurance.

North Dakota

North Dakota does not require trailer insurance.

Ohio

Ohio does not require insurance for non-motorized trailers.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma does not mandate trailer insurance.

Oregon

Oregon does not require separate trailer insurance.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania does not require trailer insurance for personal use.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island does not mandate trailer insurance.

South Carolina

South Carolina does not require trailer insurance.

South Dakota

South Dakota does not require separate trailer insurance.

Tennessee

Tennessee does not mandate trailer insurance.

Texas

Texas does not require separate insurance for non-motorized trailers, but liability is extended from the towing vehicle.

Utah

Utah does not require trailer insurance.

Vermont

Vermont does not mandate trailer insurance.

Virginia

Virginia does not require separate trailer insurance.

Washington

Washington does not mandate trailer insurance for personal trailers.

West Virginia

West Virginia does not require trailer insurance.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin does not mandate trailer insurance.

Wyoming

Wyoming does not require trailer insurance.

Why Trailer Insurance Is Still Important Even If Not Required

Even in states where trailer insurance is not legally required, going without coverage can expose you to significant financial risk. Most auto policies only cover liability while the trailer is attached to the towing vehicle. If the trailer is stolen from your driveway, damaged while parked, or destroyed in a storm, your auto insurance may not cover the loss.

Additionally, liability limits may not be sufficient for severe accidents involving trailers, especially large or heavy ones. Separate trailer insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection that state minimum requirements do not address.

Trailer Insurance vs Auto Insurance: Key Differences

Auto insurance focuses on motorized vehicles, while trailer insurance is designed to cover non-motorized property. Trailer insurance often includes physical damage coverage, theft protection, vandalism coverage, and optional liability enhancements.

Some insurers allow trailers to be added as endorsements to existing auto policies, while others require standalone policies depending on the trailer type and value.

Special Cases: Boat Trailers, Horse Trailers, and Utility Trailers

Different trailer types present different risks. Boat trailers are often insured along with the boat, while horse trailers may require specialized coverage due to animal liability risks. Utility trailers used for hauling equipment may require coverage based on value and use.

These distinctions matter when determining whether separate insurance is necessary or recommended.

Financed Trailers and Insurance Requirements

If your trailer is financed, the lender almost always requires insurance, regardless of state law. This protects the lender’s financial interest in the trailer and often includes comprehensive and collision coverage.

Failing to maintain insurance on a financed trailer can result in loan default or forced-placed insurance at a much higher cost.

Final Thoughts:

Most states do not require separate insurance for non-motorized personal trailers. However, exceptions exist based on trailer type, usage, size, and commercial classification. Even when not legally required, trailer insurance is often a smart financial decision that protects against losses not covered by auto insurance.

Understanding your state’s requirements — and the limitations of relying solely on your towing vehicle’s policy — can save you from fines, disputes, and expensive surprises.