Can I Register a Trailer with a Bill of Sale?
So you bought a trailer—maybe from a neighbor, Craigslist, or a weekend auction. The seller hands you a bill of sale, but no title. Now you’re wondering:
Can I register a trailer with just a bill of sale?
The answer? Yes, in many cases you can—but it depends on your state, the trailer’s status, and the type of paperwork you have.
Let’s walk through exactly when and how you can register a trailer using a bill of sale.
Can You Register a Trailer with a Bill of Sale?
Yes, you can register a trailer with a bill of sale in many states—but only if the trailer is exempt from titling or you’re able to satisfy extra requirements (like a VIN inspection or bonded title).
A bill of sale alone does not prove ownership in all situations, especially for titled trailers. But it’s often the first step in proving legal ownership when no title is available.
When a Bill of Sale May Be Enough
Here are common situations where a bill of sale may be enough to register a trailer:
| Scenario | Registration Possible? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Trailer is under the weight limit for titling | ✅ Yes, in most states | Usually under 2,000–3,000 lbs |
| Trailer was never titled (in-state sale) | ✅ Often yes | Must verify VIN and provide proof of ownership |
| Trailer is homemade | ✅ Yes, with inspection | Bill of sale for materials is required |
| Trailer is from a non-title state | ✅ Yes, with bill of sale | Provide out-of-state registration or documentation |
| Trailer is missing a title but should have one | ⚠️ Maybe, requires more steps | Bonded title or additional verification |
When a Bill of Sale Is Not Enough
A bill of sale won’t be enough to register a trailer if:
The trailer was previously titled, but the seller didn’t provide the title
Your state requires a title for all trailers
The trailer is reported stolen, salvaged, or unverified
The VIN is missing or tampered
In these cases, the DMV will typically require a bonded title or court-ordered title, depending on state law.
What Else Do You Need Besides a Bill of Sale?
To register a trailer with a bill of sale, you may also need:
VIN or serial number (must be legible on trailer frame)
Weight certificate from a certified scale
Proof of ID
DMV title and registration forms
Homemade trailer affidavit (if applicable)
VIN inspection by a state agency or licensed inspector
Your DMV may also ask for:
Previous registration
Receipts for parts or repairs
A notarized bill of sale, depending on your state
How to Register a Trailer with a Bill of Sale (General Process)
Step 1: Gather Documents
Signed bill of sale with seller and buyer names, date, trailer description (VIN, make, model, year), and price
Photo ID
Any other paperwork (prior registration, weight slip, etc.)
Step 2: Visit Your Local DMV or Tag Agency
Bring all documentation
Fill out a title and/or registration application
If the trailer needs a VIN inspection, schedule one or complete it in advance
Step 3: Pay Required Fees
Typical fees include:
Title fee (if applicable): $10–$30
Registration fee: $15–$80 depending on trailer weight
Taxes (usually 3%–7% of the purchase price)
Step 4: Get Your Plate and Registration
Once approved, you’ll receive a license plate and registration certificate
Some states issue a temporary plate while processing bonded or special titles
State-by-State Variations
Every state is different. Here’s a snapshot of how it works in a few common states:
| State | Bill of Sale Enough? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | Sometimes | May require bonded title if trailer was titled |
| Florida | Yes (under 2,000 lbs) | Weight slip and VIN required |
| California | Yes, with supporting docs | May need a Statement of Facts (REG 256) |
| Pennsylvania | Rarely | Bonded title typically required without title |
| Arizona | Yes | Bill of sale + VIN inspection often accepted |
| North Carolina | Yes (under 4,000 lbs) | Must verify VIN and provide weight certificate |
Always check your state’s DMV website or contact a local office to get exact requirements for your trailer’s weight and type.
Tips for Making a Bill of Sale More Acceptable
To strengthen your bill of sale for DMV approval:
Make sure it’s typed or neatly written
Include detailed trailer info: VIN, make, model, year, color
Add seller and buyer contact info
Include notarization, if your state recommends or requires it
Attach any old registrations or prior documents the seller gives you
Conclusion
Yes, you can register a trailer with a bill of sale in many states—but it depends on your trailer’s title history, weight, and local laws. The bill of sale must clearly prove ownership, and you may still need to complete inspections, submit additional paperwork, or apply for a bonded title.
When in doubt, start with your DMV. Bring the bill of sale, get a VIN inspection if needed, and ask what steps are required to complete the process.
Ready to register your trailer? Gather your documents, visit your local DMV, and get that license plate the right way—no more guesswork.
