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Registration and titling
Texas requires registration for non-farm trailers used on public highways. Manufactured trailers over 4,000 pounds gross weight must be titled; titling is optional at 4,000 pounds or less. Farm and homemade trailers can follow different rules, so confirm the current requirements with TxDMV or your county tax assessor-collector.
Brake thresholds
Texas generally requires brakes above 4,500 pounds gross weight. A trailer over 4,500 but not over 15,000 pounds may be exempt when drawn at 30 mph or less; at higher speeds, statutory axle-brake rules apply. Always verify the current Texas Transportation Code and the requirements for your specific tow combination.
Lighting and equipment
Working tail, stop, and turn lights, side markers, reflectors, license plate lighting, and properly rated safety chains are required. Wide loads carry additional marking rules.
Driver licensing
Combinations over 26,000 lbs with a trailer rated over 10,000 lbs generally require a Class A license, commercial or non-commercial depending on use. Verify current rules with Texas DPS before you haul.