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When you get a utility trailer new or used, you usually need to register it with your area’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) so it’s legal to use on the road. While each area’s regulations may vary, they all need required paperwork, such as registration applications and titles. After collecting all of the forms you need, go to your local DMV office and pay for your registration. Once your trailer is registered, you can use it on public roads!
Steps
1Get a bill of sale to prove that you have ownership of the trailer. The bill of sale is a form that specifies who you bought the trailer from, how old it is, the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the price you paid for it. If you bought your trailer new, save the receipt so you have proof that the trailer is yours. If you bought the trailer used, have the seller print out a bill of sale form so you can both fill it out.[1]- You can find online forms to make your own bill of sale as long as you have the seller for your the trailer sign it.
- Some locations require a notary official to sign the bill of sale. Check your local regulations to see if you need the bill of sale notarized.
- If you’re registering a homemade trailer, then you may need to include receipts for the parts you used to build it.
2Fill out a title application if you bought your trailer new. In addition to the bill of sale, you'll need to apply for a title to prove ownership of your trailer. When you initially buy the trailer from a manufacturer or dealership, it won’t have a title, so you need to fill out an application. Locate the title application for your state online and fill out the forms completely. Follow all of the directions on the application so it’s filled out correctly.[2]- The dealership may also give you an application for your title when you buy your trailer.
- Title registrations rules may be different where you live. Check your state’s regulations to see if you need to have a title for your trailer.
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3Have the seller sign over the title if you bought the trailer used. Transferring a trailer title is similar to transferring a car title. If you didn’t get the title when you originally bought the trailer, talk to the seller and ask them to sign over the title to you. Collect the title from them so you have proof of ownership and can register the trailer properly.[3]- If you already have the trailer but you don’t have a title, either contact the seller to have them sign it over to you or reach out to your local DMV to see what next steps you can take.
Warning: Don’t buy a trailer if the original owner doesn’t have a title for the trailer. It will make it more difficult to register since you won’t be the official owner.
4Get a VIN verification if your trailer was registered out of the state. Many times if you’re registering a trailer that you brought from out of state, you need to get the VIN checked to proof you’re the owner. Look up VIN verification test centers in your state and take the trailer in to have it checked. Once it’s verified, the station will give you a form that you must take to the DMV within 30 days to register your trailer.[4]- Not all locations require you to verify the VIN on your trailer.
- If your VIN is not verified at the center, then you need to go to the DMV to get the trailer inspected.
5Complete the registration application for your state. Locate the registration form for your trailer online and fill it out entirely. Be sure to include information about any lien holders on the registration form if there are any. Confirm that all the information is correct and accurate before printing out the application.[5]- If you can’t access the registration application online, then go to your local DMV office to find a paper copy of the form.
6Get a safety inspection if your state requires one. Some places require safety inspections to confirm the trailer is road-safe. Take your trailer to an inspection center or a DMV office with an inspection lane to have it looked over. When the inspection is concluded, they will give you a sticker if you pass.[6]- If you don’t pass the safety inspection, the inspector will give you a list of what needs to change before you can register it.
- In order to get an inspection, you must have documents that show proof of ownership, such as the title or bill of sale.
1Bring your forms and proof of identification with you to the DMV. When you go to the DMV to register your trailer, make sure you have all of the required forms with you. Keep them in a folder so they stay organized and so you don’t misplace them. Be sure you have some form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, so the DMV can confirm your identity.[7]- Check online to see the forms you need in your area since they may have different requirements.
Tip: Make an appointment with the DMV in advance to avoid getting stuck in line.
2Pay the registration and title fees. After the DMV officials go through your forms, they will ask for payment for registration and titling fees. Make the full payment with cash, check, or a debit card to finalize your registration. Most times, trailers cost around $50-100 USD to register.[8]- Most DMV offices don’t accept credit cards.
- The cost of registration may be more expensive if your trailer is heavier than 3,000 pounds (1,400 kg).
3Check your state’s regulations to see if you need insurance after registering. After your trailer is registered, look online for the regulations in your area to see if you need to get additional insurance for it.[9] If insurance is required, reach out to your insurance provider to see what policies are available and work best for your trailer.[10] Make sure you meet any minimum insurance requirements if your state has them.- You may be able to add the trailer onto your existing auto insurance if you plan on using your vehicle to tow the trailer.
4Renew your registration before it expires. Trailer registration usually lasts 1-2 years depending on where you live. When your registration is about to expire, fill out a renewal form and take it to your DMV office. Always keep your trailer registered or else it will be illegal to tow on public roads.[11]- Check the DMV website to see if you can renew your registration online.
Community Q&A
- QuestionCan I build my own trailer?
Community AnswerYes, but you will have to comply with motor vehicle regulations. In some states (like NY) you may apply to get a title for your custom made trailer but you have to provide the list of materials and mail it to get a VIN #. In some states (like FL) you just need year it was made, a weight slip from the weight station, and the ID. - QuestionHow do I register my utility trailer in Oregon if I bought it in California with no title?
Community AnswerLikely the best solution is to register it as a homemade trailer. The weight capacity will need to be shown. - QuestionI lost the plate of my utility trailer, so how can I locate the plate number?
Community AnswerJust call your local DMV or the sheriff (non-emergency line) and tell them that you lost the plate and hopefully they can help. I think all you need is the registration information and they can run a search for you.
Tips
- Contact your area’s DMV if you don’t have a VIN or title for your trailer. They will guide you through specific regulations so you can register your trailer.Thanks
- Registration requirements might be different where you live. Check your area’s DMV to see what’s required for your trailer.Thanks
Warnings
- Don’t use your trailer on public roads unless it has been registered because it’s illegal and you could get a fine.Thanks
References
- ↑ https://www.txdmv.gov/motorists/buying-or-selling-a-vehicle/trailers
- ↑ https://www.txdmv.gov/motorists/buying-or-selling-a-vehicle/trailers
- ↑ https://www.maine.gov/sos/bmv/registration/trailer.html
- ↑ https://portal.ct.gov/dmv/vehicle-services/verify-a-vin?language=en_US
- ↑ https://portal.ct.gov/dmv/vehicle-services/verify-a-vin?language=en_US
- ↑ https://dmv.ny.gov/registration/register-trailer
- ↑ https://www.nj.gov/mvc/vehicletopics/trailer.htm
- ↑ https://www.mvd.newmexico.gov/chapter-13-trailer/
- ↑ https://dmv.ny.gov/registration/register-trailer
About This Article
To register a utility truck, make sure you have a bill of sale to prove that you were given ownership of the vehicle from the seller. In addition to a bill of sale, have the previous owner sign over the title to you, as you’ll need to show it to the DMV when you register your truck. If you bought your truck new, it won’t have a title, so fill out your state’s title application, which can be found online. Once you can prove ownership of your truck, find your state’s registration application online and fill it out entirely. Then, if your state requires it, schedule a safety inspection at a local inspection center or DMV. With all of the necessary paperwork completed, take your documents, a form of identification, and about $100 in cash to the DMV to complete your registration. For more help, like how to renew your registration, read on!
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