4 Easy Steps to Obtain a Trailer Tag

Trailer Registration Process

How To Get A Tag For A Trailer Without A Title

Trailers are a great way to transport cargo or equipment, but they can be a hassle to register if you don’t have a title. Many states require a title in order to register a trailer, but there are a few ways to get around this requirement. In this article, we’ll discuss how to get a tag for a trailer without a title.

One way to get a tag for a trailer without a title is to apply for a bonded title. A bonded title is a type of title that is issued by a surety company. The surety company will guarantee the ownership of the trailer, and you will be required to pay a bond in order to obtain the title. The bond will protect the surety company in the event that the trailer is stolen or damaged.

Another way to get a tag for a trailer without a title is to apply for a lost title. If you have lost the title to your trailer, you can apply for a duplicate title from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV will require you to provide proof of ownership of the trailer, such as a bill of sale or a registration card. You will also need to pay a fee to obtain the duplicate title.

Determine the Type of Trailer You Have

Identify the Purpose of Your Trailer

The first step in determining the type of trailer you have is to identify its primary purpose. Trailers are typically classified based on their intended use, which can include:

* Cargo trailers: Designed for transporting goods, materials, or equipment.
* Enclosed trailers: Enclosed and weather-protected, suitable for storage, transportation, or mobile offices.
* Utility trailers: Versatile and open-sided, used for various tasks such as landscaping, construction, or hauling equipment.
* Travel trailers: Recreational vehicles designed for camping and leisure travel.
* Fifth-wheel trailers: Large, luxurious RVs that attach to the bed of a pickup truck.

Consider the Size and Weight of Your Trailer

Once you have determined the purpose of your trailer, it’s important to measure its dimensions and weigh it. These factors will determine the type of registration and legal requirements you need to meet. Trailers are typically categorized into three main size classes:

Size Class	Length	Width
Small	Less than 8 feet	Less than 4 feet
Medium	8 to 16 feet	4 to 8 feet
Large	Over 16 feet	Over 8 feet

You should also weigh your trailer to determine its gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). The GVWR is the maximum permissible weight of the trailer and its contents. This information is essential for determining the type of vehicle you need to tow the trailer safely.

Identify the Gross Weight of Your Trailer

Before registering your trailer, it’s crucial to determine its gross weight rating (GVWR). The GVWR indicates the maximum weight the trailer can legally carry, including its own weight, cargo, and any additional accessories. Knowing the GVWR ensures you don’t overload your trailer and stay within the legal limits for safe operation.

Determining the GVWR

The GVWR is typically found on a metal tag affixed to the trailer’s frame or in its owner’s manual. It may also be indicated on the trailer’s VIN plate or sticker. If you can’t find it there, consult with the trailer’s manufacturer or a qualified technician.

Here’s a table summarizing the different methods for finding the GVWR:

Method	Where to Look
Metal Tag	Trailer frame
Owner’s Manual	Section on specifications
VIN Plate/Sticker	Next to the VIN number
Manufacturer or Technician	Contact for assistance

It’s important to note that the GVWR includes not only the weight of the trailer itself but also any cargo, passengers, and equipment loaded on it. Exceeding the GVWR can compromise the trailer’s stability, handling, and braking performance, posing a safety hazard.

Calculate the Tongue Weight of Your Trailer

The tongue weight is the downward force exerted by the trailer on the hitch of the tow vehicle. It is important to calculate the tongue weight accurately to ensure that the tow vehicle can safely handle the trailer. The tongue weight should be between 10% and 15% of the trailer’s gross weight. If the tongue weight is too low, the trailer may sway or fishtail. If the tongue weight is too high, it can put excessive stress on the hitch and tow vehicle.

To calculate the tongue weight, you will need to weigh the trailer and the tow vehicle separately. Once you have the weights, you can use the following formula to calculate the tongue weight:

Tongue weight = (Trailer weight / Tow vehicle weight) x 100

For example, if your trailer weighs 5,000 pounds and your tow vehicle weighs 6,000 pounds, the tongue weight would be 833 pounds. (5,000 / 6,000) x 100 = 833.33

Once you have calculated the tongue weight, you can use the information in the following table to determine if it is within the recommended range.

Trailer Weight	Recommended Tongue Weight
Up to 2,000 pounds	10% of trailer weight
2,001 to 4,000 pounds	12% of trailer weight
4,001 to 6,000 pounds	14% of trailer weight
Over 6,000 pounds	15% of trailer weight

If the tongue weight is not within the recommended range, you may need to adjust the weight distribution of the trailer. You can do this by moving some of the weight to the front or rear of the trailer, or by adding a weight distribution hitch.

Find a Qualified Trailer Manufacturer or Dealer

If you are building your own trailer, you will need to find a qualified trailer manufacturer or dealer to get a tag for it. Look for a company that is licensed and bonded, and has a good reputation in the industry. You can find a list of qualified trailer manufacturers and dealers in your area by contacting your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

4. Fill Out the Application for a Trailer Tag

Once you have found a qualified trailer manufacturer or dealer, you will need to fill out an application for a trailer tag and signs. The application will require you to provide information about the trailer, including its weight, dimensions, and year of manufacture. You will also need to provide proof of ownership of the trailer, such as a bill of sale or title. It is crucial to ensure all the information provided is accurate and complete, as inaccuracies can delay the processing of your application.

In addition to the basic information, you may also be required to provide additional documentation depending on your state’s specific regulations. For instance, some states mandate a weight certificate or a safety inspection certificate. Contact your local DMV for a comprehensive list of necessary documents to avoid any potential setbacks during the application process.

To facilitate your understanding, we have compiled a table summarizing the essential information you typically need to provide when filling out an application for a trailer tag:

Required Information
Trailer’s weight
Trailer’s dimensions (length, width, height)
Trailer’s year of manufacture
Proof of ownership (bill of sale or title)
Weight certificate (if applicable)
Safety inspection certificate (if applicable)

Complete and Submit the Application for a Trailer Tag

To obtain a tag for your trailer, you’ll need to complete an application form. This form typically requires information such as:

Your name and contact information
The trailer’s make, model, and year
The trailer’s VIN or serial number
The trailer’s weight and dimensions
Your vehicle identification number (VIN) if you are an individual

Once you have completed the application, you’ll need to submit it to the appropriate authority. This may be the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or another designated agency in your state. Along with the application, you may also need to provide supporting documents such as:

Proof of ownership (e.g., a bill of sale or title)
Proof of insurance
Payment for the registration fee

Online Application

Many states now offer the convenience of online trailer tag applications. This option allows you to complete and submit the application without having to visit a physical office.
To apply online, you will typically need to:

Visit the website of your state’s DMV or other designated agency
Create an account or log in if you already have one
Complete the online application form
Upload any required supporting documents
Submit the application and pay the registration fee

Once your application is processed, you will receive your trailer tag by mail.


In-Person Application	Online Application
Requires a visit to a physical office	Convenient and can be done from anywhere
May have limited hours of operation	Typically available 24/7
May require additional time for processing	Usually processed more quickly

Pay the Required Fees and Taxes

1. Determine the Required Fees

The fees for registering a trailer vary by state and the trailer’s weight and size. Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or visit their website to determine the exact fees required.

2. Gather Required Documentation

To register your trailer, you will need the following documentation:

Proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale or title)
Proof of insurance
Identification (such as a driver’s license or passport)

3. Calculate Taxes

Some states require you to pay sales tax on the purchase of a trailer. The sales tax rate varies by state. You can calculate the sales tax by multiplying the price of the trailer by the sales tax rate.

4. Submit Payment

Once you have determined the required fees and taxes, you can submit payment to the DMV. Payment can usually be made by cash, check, or credit card. Some states also offer online payment options.

5. Obtain a Temporary Tag

In most states, you will be issued a temporary tag after submitting payment. This tag will allow you to drive your trailer for a limited time while you wait for your permanent registration and license plate.

6. How to Determine the Weight and Size of Your Trailer

The weight and size of your trailer will determine the registration fees and taxes you are required to pay. To determine the weight and size of your trailer, you can use the following methods:

Consult the Manufacturer’s Specifications: The manufacturer of your trailer will provide you with the specifications, including the weight and size, in the owner’s manual.
Use a Commercial Scale: You can take your trailer to a commercial scale to weigh it. You will need to pay a small fee for this service.

Measure the Trailer Yourself: You can also measure the length, width, and height of your trailer yourself using a measuring tape. Be sure to measure accurately to ensure the correct fees are calculated.

Obtain the Permanent Trailer Tag

Once you have received the temporary trailer tag, you will need to return to the DMV to obtain the permanent trailer tag. The following steps will help you complete this process:

1. Gather the Required Documents

You will need to have the following documents when you go to the DMV:

The temporary trailer tag
Proof of insurance
Proof of ownership (certificate of title or bill of sale)

2. Complete the Application

You will need to complete an application for a permanent trailer tag. The application will ask for information such as your name, address, and the trailer’s VIN number.

3. Pay the Fees

You will need to pay the following fees when you apply for a permanent trailer tag:

Fee	Amount
Tag fee	$25
Title fee	$15
Registration fee	$10

4. Submit the Documents and Fees

once you have completed the application and paid the fees, you will need to submit the documents and fees to the DMV.

5. Receive the Permanent Trailer Tag

The DMV will process your application and issue you a permanent trailer tag. The tag will be valid for one year.

6. Display the Permanent Trailer Tag

You must display the permanent trailer tag on the rear of your trailer at all times.

7. Renew the Permanent Trailer Tag

Every year, you will need to renew your permanent trailer tag. You can renew your tag online, by mail, or at the DMV. The renewal fee is $25.

Display the Trailer Tag in a Conspicuous Location

The trailer tag must be clearly visible to law enforcement officers and other drivers. Failure to display the tag properly can result in fines or other penalties. Here are some specific guidelines for displaying the trailer tag:

1. Location:

The trailer tag should be displayed on the rear of the trailer, in a location that is easily visible from behind the trailer. The tag should be mounted at a height of 4 to 5 feet above the ground.

2. Mounting:

The trailer tag should be mounted securely on a flat surface using bolts or screws. The tag should not be attached with tape or other materials that can easily deteriorate or come loose.

3. Obstructions:

The trailer tag should not be obstructed by any other objects, such as mud flaps, license plates, or towing equipment. The tag should be clearly visible from all angles.

4. Lighting:

The trailer tag should be illuminated at night by a light that is visible from behind the trailer. This is especially important for trailers that are used for nighttime travel.

5. Legibility:

The trailer tag must be legible and free of dirt, grime, or other damage. The letters and numbers on the tag should be easy to read from a distance of 10 feet or more.

6. Replacement:

If the trailer tag is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement tag should be obtained from the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) as soon as possible.

7. Transfer:

When a trailer is sold or transferred to a new owner, the trailer tag must be transferred to the new owner. The new owner must then display the tag in accordance with the guidelines described above.

8. Penalties for Non-Compliance:

Failure to display the trailer tag in a conspicuous location can result in a variety of penalties, including:

Violation	Penalty
No trailer tag	$100 fine
Obstructed tag	$50 fine
Illegible tag	$25 fine
Failure to transfer tag	$25 fine

Renew the Trailer Registration Regularly

Trailer registrations, like vehicle registrations, expire after a certain period and must be renewed to maintain their validity. Here are the steps involved in renewing your trailer registration:

Gather Required Documents: Obtain the necessary documents, including the current registration card, proof of insurance, and payment for the renewal fee.
Determine Renewal Deadline: Check your registration card for the expiration date to ensure you renew before it lapses.
Visit the DMV or Online Portal: Visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or access the online renewal portal if available.
Submit Documents and Pay Fees: Present the required documents and make the necessary payment for the renewal.
Receive Updated Registration: Once processed, you will receive a new registration card and license plate sticker (if applicable) for your trailer.

Important Considerations:

Keep these important considerations in mind when renewing your trailer registration:

Aspect	Details
Timeliness:	Renew your registration before the expiration date to avoid penalties or suspension of the trailer’s use.
Fees:	The renewal fee varies depending on the state and type of trailer, but typically includes registration, license, and plate charges.
Proof of Ownership:	In some cases, you may be required to provide proof of ownership of the trailer, such as the title or bill of sale.
Suspension or Revocation:	Failure to renew the registration can result in the suspension or revocation of your trailer’s registration and potential penalties.

Transfer the Trailer Tag if Selling the Trailer

When selling a trailer, it’s important to transfer the tag to the new owner. This process will vary depending on the state, but generally, you’ll need to:

Sign the title over to the new owner.
Complete a transfer of ownership form.
Pay any applicable fees.
Submit the completed paperwork to the DMV.
Notify your insurance company of the sale.
Remove the license plate from the trailer.
Give the license plate and registration to the new owner.
Keep a copy of the transfer of ownership form for your records.
If the trailer is being sold out of state, you may need to obtain a temporary tag from the DMV.
Additional Information:

In some states, you may be able to transfer the tag online or by mail.
The transfer of ownership form may also be available online.
You can find the contact information for your local DMV on their website.
The fees for transferring a trailer tag vary by state.
It’s important to transfer the tag as soon as possible after selling the trailer to avoid any penalties or fees.

How to Get a Tag for a Trailer

Getting a tag for a trailer is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few steps. First, you will need to gather the following documents:

Proof of ownership for the trailer
Proof of insurance for the trailer
The trailer’s VIN number
The weight of the trailer

Once you have gathered these documents, you can take them to your local DMV office. There, you will need to fill out a form and pay the appropriate fees. The DMV will then issue you a tag for your trailer.