Select your state and situation below, then print the personalized checklist to take with you to the DMV or county title office.
UtilityTrailerGuide.com — Trailer Title & Registration Checklist Print and bring to your county title office or DMV
SECTION A — Standard Title Transfer (Private Seller)
Original title signed by seller on the back (NOT a photocopy)
VIN on title matches VIN physically on the trailer frame
No lienholder listed — or lien release letter in hand
Bill of sale: seller name, buyer name, date, price, VIN, trailer description, both signatures
Your state-issued driver's license or photo ID
Completed title application form (get from your county office)
Payment: title fee + registration fee + applicable sales/use tax
SECTION B — No Title Available (Bonded Title)
Written appraisal of trailer's current market value
Surety bond purchased for 1.5× appraised value (from licensed bonding company)
Original surety bond certificate (not a copy)
Bill of sale or any ownership documentation you have
Completed bonded title application form
Notarized affidavit of ownership (required in some states)
Your state-issued photo ID
Payment: title fee + bonded title surcharge + registration fee
SECTION C — Homemade Trailer
Builder's affidavit (notarized) — lists materials, dimensions, GVWR, construction date
Material receipts for major components: axle(s), frame, wheels, tongue, lights
6+ clear photos: all four sides, tongue/hitch area, axle closeup
BRING THE TRAILER — VIN inspection requires physical presence
Completed title application (list Make as "HOME" or "HOMEMADE")
Your state-issued photo ID
Payment: title fee + registration fee (+ THP/inspection fee if applicable)
SECTION D — Inherited Trailer
Death certificate of previous owner
Letters Testamentary (if estate went through probate) OR Small Estate Affidavit
Original title (if available) OR duplicate title application
Your state-issued photo ID
Completed title application / transfer form
Payment: title fee + registration fee (tax exemption may apply — ask at window)
GENERAL REMINDERS
Go to the COUNTY TITLE OFFICE — not always the same as a standard DMV office
Bring exact change or check if unsure about card acceptance
Call ahead to confirm hours and whether appointments are required
Plates/registration issued same day; title certificate mailed in 2–6 weeks
Keep registration receipt in trailer until physical title arrives
Store the title certificate safely — NOT in the trailer
UtilityTrailerGuide.com — Free informational guides to utility trailer registration & titling — Not legal advice
Always verify current fees and forms with your county or state title office before visiting.