Use this guide to prepare for the exam, and refer to the official manual for complete details.
Towing a trailer, even a small one, dramatically changes a vehicle’s handling, acceleration, and braking characteristics. Understanding the specific equipment, loading procedures, and driving techniques required is essential for safety. This knowledge is not only crucial for preventing dangerous situations like trailer sway or an unsecured load but also ensures the driver is operating their vehicle and trailer combination legally on Missouri’s roads.
Safely towing a non-commercial trailer requires careful preparation before the trip and special attention to driving techniques during the trip. The added weight and length demand more from the driver and the tow vehicle. Missouri law specifies the equipment required for trailers and holds the driver responsible for ensuring the trailer and its cargo are secure.
Equipment and Loading
Proper equipment and correct loading are the foundation of safe towing. A failure in either area can lead to a loss of control and a serious crash.
Required Equipment
- Hitch: The hitch must be appropriate for the weight of the trailer and securely attached to the frame of the towing vehicle. The trailer coupler must latch securely onto the hitch ball.
- Safety Chains: Every trailer must be connected to the towing vehicle with two safety chains. These chains act as a backup connection if the hitch fails. They should be crossed under the trailer tongue in an “X” pattern and attached to the tow vehicle’s frame. The chains should have enough slack to allow for turns but not so much that they drag on the ground.
- Lights: The trailer’s lighting system must be connected to the tow vehicle and be fully functional. This includes taillights, brake lights, and turn signals that work in sync with the tow vehicle’s lights.
- Brakes: Missouri law requires a separate braking system on any trailer with a gross weight of 3,000 lbs or more. Brakes are also required if the trailer’s weight exceeds 40% of the towing vehicle’s weight. These brakes are typically activated electronically or by a surge mechanism when the tow vehicle brakes.
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