State Laws Can Pull You in Many Directions if You Double Tow

Our friends at Automobile Magazine have pointed out some interesting facts about trailer towing and state laws of which all truck owners should be aware. If you drive a full-size pickup, sooner or later you’re probably going to tow something behind it. You’d probably think one item, like a boat or an RV, was enough, but most states will allow you to tow two things behind your truck.

However, trailer-towing laws are inconsistent from state to state. The maximum length of a captive convoy ranges from 65 feet in Arizona and California to 99 feet in Mississippi. Licensing requirements may require a special commercial driver’s license (California) or simply taking a test, which is what Automobile Magazine in Michigan did recently to earn their “Recreational Double” endorsement. It only took $10 and a passing score on a 15-question exam — no skills test required.

Terminology is inconsistent, too. Some states call it double towing, while others refer to it as triple towing. In general, you’ll find that every state along the Atlantic bans double towing except for Maryland. Hawaii, Washington and Oregon also make it illegal to double tow.

Best advice: If you’re going to double tow across state lines, call or check DMV websites ahead of time so you don’t find yourself paying a ticket and making two trips to get your trailers to their final destination.

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