Wisconsin drivers using a personal light truck to pull a trailer must adhere to all state laws regarding license plate requirements for both the truck and the trailer. Depending on the trailer's size and use, a license plate may not be required on it when traveling within the state. Knowing the state's requirements helps ensure that the law is met.
Though there are no special license plate requirements for light trucks used to pull a trailer in Wisconsin, all light trucks must have the appropriate plates. Most trucks must have "Truck-Private Carrier" plates that denote the truck as a personal vehicle. The plates are issued with a weight sticker in one of three size categories, A, up to 4,500 pounds; B, up to 6,000 pounds; and C, up to 8,000 pounds. The plates must be renewed annually with all registration and renewal fees varying with the truck's weight. Light trucks that are used only on a farm and to commute to and from a job may be issued plates denoting it as a "Farm Truck." Plates for a farm truck must be renewed every two years.
Wisconsin does not require trailers weighing less than 3,000 lbs. to have a license plate or be titled or registered with the state, though all trailers over 3,000 lbs. must have a plate. The type of vehicle used to pull the trailer does not change the license plate requirements. Camping and pop-up trailers must meet the same license plate requirements. Trailers that are rented out or used for hire must have a license plate, regardless of their weight. In addition, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation suggests that trailer owners register their trailers regardless of weight, as other states may require all trailers to have license plates.
Certain sport utility vehicles and vans qualify as trucks and must have truck plates in Wisconsin. According to the Department of Transportation all SUVs and vans that have 50 percent or more of the vehicle's floor space designated as cargo area must be registered as light trucks. Drivers who purchase a trailer that is not licensed and does not have plates are able to transport the trailer home, but it should then be registered as soon as possible.
