Yes, you can tow a car that is not registered, but it is almost always illegal to do so on public roads without taking specific, legally-mandated steps. The primary reason for this is safety and liability; an unregistered vehicle is not certified as roadworthy by the state. Towing it improperly can pose a significant hazard to you and other drivers. The legality depends heavily on your specific location (state laws vary widely), the reason for towing, and the method used.
The most critical factor is the towing method. For any significant distance on public roads, the only universally accepted method is using a flatbed trailer or a car carrier. This is because all four of the car's wheels are lifted completely off the ground. This method avoids potential damage to the transmission of a towed vehicle and, most importantly, ensures the car cannot affect the steering or braking of the towing vehicle.
Towing with a dolly (lifting only the front wheels) or all four wheels on the ground is extremely risky and often explicitly illegal for an unregistered vehicle. These methods rely on the towed car's steering and braking systems being functional, which cannot be guaranteed for an unregistered car that may have been sitting for a long time.
Common Legal Scenarios:
- Private Property: Moving an unregistered car a short distance on your own private land is generally permissible.
- Public Road to Private Property: Towing an unregistered car from a public street directly to your private property or a repair shop is often allowed, but you may need a special trip permit from the DMV or local police.
- Long-Distance Transport: For moving a car across state lines, you must use a licensed commercial carrier or secure the appropriate temporary permits for each state you will pass through.
The penalties for ignoring these laws can be severe, including hefty fines and the impoundment of both the towed vehicle and your tow vehicle. The safest approach is to always check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or law enforcement before moving an unregistered car.
| State | Typical Permit Required for Towing on Public Roads? | Preferred Legal Towing Method | Potential Penalty for Illegal Towing |
|---|
| California | Yes (Moving Permit) | Flatbed Trailer | Fine up to $500, vehicle impound |
| Texas | Yes (In-Transit Permit) | Flatbed or Full Dolly | Fine up to $200 |
| Florida | Varies by county | Flatbed Trailer | Fine up to $250 |
| New York | Yes (Temporary Registration) | Flatbed Trailer | Fine up to $300, points on license |
| Illinois | Yes (Hardship Permit) | Flatbed Trailer | Fine up to $500 |
