Register a trailer

How to register a trailer

In general, the procedures to register and title a light-duty trailer 1 are the same as registering and titling a vehicle. However, there are some differences


Submit your documents, application and payment to the DMV 

Follow the instructions for how to register a vehicle in the County you live in.

You can use the DMV Registration Guide to determine what documents you need to apply

 

Find acceptable proofs of ownership if you are buying or transferring ownership of a trailer.

Please note that all trailers must get an annual safety inspection.

If you use your trailer to tow a boat, be sure to learn how to prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species and treat the boat stewards with courtesy and respect.

Trailer registrations are for one year with a fixed expiration date of December 31st. One plate and one yearly sticker are issued with the registration document. If you do not renew the registration yearly you will need to register your trailer again.  


Fees

The annual fee is $5.39 for every 500 pounds or fraction of 500 pounds, maximum gross weight, with a minimum annual fee of $14.38. The fee is prorated on a daily basis.

You may also need to pay taxes and plate fees.


Title for trailer

The DMV issues titles for trailers that are

  • over 999 lbs
  • model year 1973 and newer

Trailers under 999 lbs or older than model year 1973 will be issued a transferable registration as proof of ownership.


Special equipment

See Equipment Required for Trailers (PDF) (MV-529C).


Inspections

Your trailer must have an annual safety inspection. A DMV-licensed inspection station that inspects passenger vehicles and other light-duty vehicles can inspect a trailer. The inspector will give you the inspection sticker. Carry the inspection sticker in the vehicle that tows the trailer.

 

Insurance

DMV requires insurance for commercial trailers.  This includes agricultural class vehicles and trailers registered with an agricultural registration.

  1. 1. Light-duty trailers include boat trailers, ATV trailers, and snowmobile trailers, camper trailers, utility trailers, and other small trailers.