ORLANDO, Fla. – If you’re driving around in Florida, you may notice many vehicles with a trailer hitch installed on the back, even when not towing anything.
Whether it’s due to convenience, frequent towing, or simply not wanting to remove it, many people choose to leave the hitch attached to their vehicle.
But is it legal? The short answer is yes — it is perfectly legal to leave your hitch on in Florida.
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The Law and your license plate
Florida law doesn’t prohibit drivers from keeping their hitch attached to their vehicle when it’s not in use. However, there is one important caveat: your hitch cannot obstruct your license plate.
This means that if your hitch is blocking part of your license plate from being easily visible to law enforcement, you could be in violation of the law. Florida Statute 316.605 outlines that license plates must be clearly visible and free from any obstruction, including trailer hitches.
For most vehicles, the hitch sits below or to the side of the plate, so this isn’t usually a concern. But it’s a good idea to double-check the placement to avoid any potential issues, especially if you drive a smaller vehicle or have an unusually large hitch.
Safety first: securing your hitch
Even though it’s legal to leave your hitch on, you should still take precautions to ensure it’s properly secured.
A loose or improperly attached hitch can become a safety hazard, not only for you but also for others on the road. If the hitch comes loose while you’re driving, it could cause serious damage to your vehicle or, worse, cause a crash.
Before leaving your hitch attached to your car for long periods, check that it’s firmly in place and that all bolts and pins are properly tightened. You should also periodically inspect it for signs of wear and tear, especially if you use it often for towing.
Watch out for your legs!
Finally, one practical concern about leaving your hitch on the vehicle is the risk of bumping into it — particularly for you and your passengers. If you’re not used to having a hitch attached to your car, it’s easy to misjudge the space behind your vehicle, especially when loading cargo or simply walking around it.
Trailer hitches protrude from the back of the vehicle, and bumping your shin or leg into one can be quite painful. To avoid this, make it a habit to watch your step when walking behind your vehicle. You can even consider adding a brightly colored cover or marker to make it more visible.
The bottom line
In Florida, it is legal to leave your trailer hitch attached to your vehicle, provided it does not obstruct your license plate. However, it’s important to ensure the hitch is securely fastened and regularly checked for any safety concerns. And don’t forget to be cautious when walking around your vehicle to avoid any painful run-ins with the hitch.
While some drivers prefer to remove their hitch when it’s not in use, leaving it on is perfectly fine—just be sure to follow these guidelines for a safe and legal driving experience.
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