Interesting question. Here in Wa you need tags and lights. But if you are pulling a log splitter with no tags or lights, no one will say anything. So I guess the smart move is to always carry an ax in your MC trailer so you can say it's a log splitter.
In Alabama it is required to have tags on your trailer but no one gets them and I have never heard of anyone getting a ticket. Not saying hasn't happened.
Your DMV is correct. Most states that allow an owner to use a small utility trailer unlicensed is for personal and that state use only. Once you cross the state line you are required to comply with that states laws unless there is a specific exemption in the law in the state you are about to enter. As an example, vehicles registered in Indiana are allowed darker window tint on vehicles than in Ohio. I believe Indiana is 35% light transmission thru all windows vs Ohio which is limited to 50% on the front windows. If you drive to Ohio with your Indiana vehicle the police cannot stop you for illegally tinted windows. Ohio has an exemption that vehicles registered in a different state are not subject to the 50% law. I have not found any such exemption for trailer license plates here in Ohio. I have made traffic stops on trailers from out of state that do not require license plates. As long as the owners can provide me with proof of ownership, ie a title or bill of sale with a vin# I let them go on their way. BUT that is just me, you could have a very different out come. Hope that gives you some direction.
Last edited by drewski1325; 08-04-2009 at 08:58 PM.