How to Register a Trailer Without a Title in Louisiana
If you’ve bought a trailer in Louisiana—whether it’s a utility trailer, boat trailer, or even a homemade hauler—but it doesn’t have a title, you’re probably asking:
Can I still register a trailer without a title in Louisiana?
The short answer is: Yes, you can—but it depends on the trailer’s origin, weight, and your documentation.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know to legally register a trailer without a title in Louisiana.
Can You Register a Trailer Without a Title in Louisiana?
Yes, Louisiana allows you to register certain trailers without a title, especially if the trailer is lightweight or if it was never previously titled. However, you’ll need proper documentation, and in some cases, you’ll have to apply for a duplicate or bonded title.
The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) has different rules depending on the trailer’s type, age, and weight—so it’s important to know where yours fits.
What Types of Trailers Can Be Registered Without a Title?
Here’s a quick breakdown of when you can register without a title in Louisiana:
| Trailer Type | Title Required? | Can Be Registered Without Title? |
|---|---|---|
| Utility trailer under 4,000 lbs | No | ✅ Yes, with a bill of sale |
| Boat trailer under 4,000 lbs | No | ✅ Yes, if no prior title exists |
| Trailer over 4,000 lbs (GVWR) | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Not without applying for a bonded title |
| Homemade trailer | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes, with inspection and documentation |
| Out-of-state trailer | Depends | ⚠️ Requires prior registration or title |
If your trailer is over 4,000 lbs, the state typically requires a title, and if you don’t have one, you’ll need to apply for a bonded title before registration.
How to Register a Trailer Without a Title in Louisiana
Step 1: Gather Required Documentation
At a minimum, you’ll need:
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A notarized Bill of Sale
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Must include buyer/seller info, trailer description, VIN/serial number (if present), and date of sale
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Previous registration (if available)
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Proof of ID (Driver’s license or state-issued ID)
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Weight slip (for homemade or unmarked trailers)
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Affidavit of Physical Inspection (if required)
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Form DPSMV 1799 – Vehicle Application
If the trailer was purchased in a non-title state, the OMV may accept the bill of sale plus registration from that state as proof of ownership.
Step 2: Verify the Trailer’s VIN (Or Get One Assigned)
If your trailer doesn’t have a VIN or the VIN is missing or unreadable, you’ll need to:
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Schedule an inspection with the Louisiana State Police or an OMV field office.
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Receive a VIN assignment.
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Affix the VIN plate to your trailer’s frame.
If your trailer already has a VIN and it matches the bill of sale, you may skip this step.
Step 3: Determine if a Bonded Title Is Required
If your trailer should have a title (over 4,000 lbs or previously titled) and you don’t have one, the OMV will likely require you to get a bonded title.
Here’s how:
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Complete a bonded title application through the OMV
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Get the trailer’s value appraised
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Purchase a surety bond for 1.5x the value
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Submit the bond, application, and supporting documents
After approval, you’ll receive a bonded title valid for 3 years, after which it converts to a clear title if uncontested.
Step 4: Visit Your Local OMV Office
Bring all your documentation to your nearest Louisiana OMV or Public Tag Agency.
They’ll process your:
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Title or bonded title (if required)
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Trailer registration
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License plate issuance
Step 5: Pay Applicable Fees
Expect to pay the following fees:
| Fee Type | Estimated Amount |
|---|---|
| Title Fee (if applicable) | $68.50 |
| Registration Fee | $40–$100 (based on trailer weight) |
| VIN Assignment | $10–$20 |
| Bonded Title Surety Bond | Varies (based on trailer value) |
| License Plate Fee | $20–$25 |
| Local Parish/City Fees | May apply |
Some trailer types (like boat trailers) may also be subject to use tax or boat-related registration fees.
Special Case: Homemade Trailer Registration
If you built your trailer yourself, follow these steps:
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Get the trailer weighed at a certified scale
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Complete a Homemade Trailer Statement of Fact (Form DPSMV 1695)
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Submit a detailed list of materials and receipts
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Get a VIN assigned
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Proceed with registration like any other trailer
Important: You must prove the trailer was legally constructed and not built from stolen parts.
What If You Already Registered a Trailer in Another State?
If you’re moving to Louisiana with an already-registered trailer:
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Bring the out-of-state registration or title
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If the trailer is from a non-title state, your registration and bill of sale may be accepted
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If from a title state, but no title is available, you may need to go through the bonded title process
Conclusion
Yes, you can register a trailer without a title in Louisiana—especially if it’s lightweight, never previously titled, or homemade. But if the trailer should have a title and one isn’t available, you’ll likely need to apply for a bonded title first.
Start by gathering a detailed bill of sale and verifying the trailer’s VIN. From there, visit your local OMV to complete the registration, and don’t forget to ask if you qualify for a bonded title or VIN inspection if needed.
Ready to register your trailer? Get your paperwork together, head to the OMV, and get legal today—no title, no problem (as long as you follow the rules).
