Tennessee Utility Trailer Registration & Titling
Last reviewed: January 2025 · Source: Tennessee Department of Revenue, county clerk offices
Tennessee requires a title for all trailers regardless of weight — there is no GVWR exemption that removes the titling requirement. All title and registration work is handled at the county clerk's office, not a state DMV. Here's everything you need to know.
- Title required for all trailers (no weight exemption)
- Handled at: County Clerk's Office (not a state DMV)
- Key form: Form MV-1 (Application for Certificate of Title)
- Title fee: $13.00
- Title issued by mail in 4–6 weeks; plates issued same day
Standard Title Transfer (Buying from Private Seller)
When you purchase a trailer from a private seller in Tennessee, the title transfer is handled at your county clerk's office. Bring:
- The original signed-over title (seller signs the back)
- Completed Form MV-1 (Application for Certificate of Title)
- Bill of sale (recommended — county clerks often ask for it)
- Your Tennessee driver's license or state ID
- Payment for title fee ($13.00) and registration fees
Tennessee does not require the seller's signature to be notarized for standard trailer title transfers. However, if there's a lienholder listed on the title, you'll also need a lien release letter from that lienholder before the transfer can proceed.
Homemade Trailer Titling in Tennessee
Homemade trailers require a VIN assignment before they can be titled. The full process is covered in our dedicated guide:
→ Tennessee Homemade Trailer Title Guide
No Title Available
If you purchased a trailer and the seller has no title, Tennessee offers a bonded title path. You'll need a surety bond for 1.5× the trailer's value and Form MV-1 completed as a bonded title application. See our full guide:
→ Bonded Title Process (National Guide)
Tennessee Trailer Fee Schedule (2025)
| Fee | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate of Title | $13.00 | One-time |
| Registration — under 2,000 lbs | $20.75/year | |
| Registration — 2,000–5,000 lbs | $27.75/year | Most utility trailers |
| Registration — over 5,000 lbs | $42.75/year | |
| County processing fee | $1.00–$5.00 | Varies by county |
| Duplicate title | $13.00 | Lost title replacement |
County Clerk Offices — High-Traffic Counties
- Shelby County (Memphis): 150 Washington Ave. Call: (901) 222-3000. Appointments recommended.
- Davidson County (Nashville): 700 2nd Ave S. Multiple locations. Walk-in available, typically 30–45 min wait.
- Knox County (Knoxville): 300 Main St. Walk-in; mornings fastest.
- Hamilton County (Chattanooga): 625 Georgia Ave. Walk-in friendly.
- Rutherford County (Murfreesboro): 319 N. Maple St. Fast processing; typically under 20 min.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Tennessee have a deadline to transfer a trailer title after purchase?
Tennessee does not impose a specific transfer deadline with a financial penalty, but operating a trailer under the seller's plates or registration after a sale is illegal. Transfer at your county clerk's office as soon as practical after purchase — ideally within 30 days.
Can I do a Tennessee trailer title transfer online?
No. Tennessee trailer title transfers require a physical visit to the county clerk's office with original documents. Online services are available for registration renewal only — not for new titles or transfers.
Do I need a bill of sale in Tennessee for a trailer purchase?
Tennessee does not legally require a separate bill of sale when the title is signed over — the signed title serves as the transfer document. However, county clerks commonly request one, and it protects both buyer and seller in case of disputes. Always get a bill of sale when buying a trailer.