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Official Michigan Boating Handbook Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment

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It's the Law: Before Going Out

Legal Requirements for Trailers

Michigan has specific requirements for boat trailers.

  • Trailers must be licensed and registered.
  • If the gross weight of the vessel and trailer exceeds 3,000 pounds, the trailer must be equipped with brakes.
  • Trailers must have proper lighting, including turn signals, taillights, and brake lights. All trailer lights must be maintained in an operable condition—same as when the trailer was manufactured.
  • All towing vehicles must be connected to the trailer by a safety chain or cable of sufficient strength to maintain connection under all conditions.

For further information, contact the Michigan Secretary of State at 517-322-1460, call one of the branch offices or visit www.michigan.gov/sos.

Boat being launched from trailer
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Michigan Department
of Natural Resources
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Online boating safety handbook last modified: July 13, 2011
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