Trailers Trailers

This section explains the process to title trailers, including:

• Trailer kits (e.g., kits purchased from Harbor Freight or assembled by dealers such as Home Depot or Lowe’s)

• Homemade trailers (e.g., made from an old truck bed or other materials)

• Small trailers weighing less than 2,000 lbs purchased without titles (often from states that do not require titles for small trailers)

The inspector will have all required forms, so there is no need to print anything ahead of time.

Small Trailers

Trailers in this category must have:

• Two safety chains in good condition, properly attached to both the trailer and towing vehicle, and long enough to prevent the tongue from contacting the ground if it becomes disconnected

• Working lights – have your trailer measurements available and check lighting requirements beforehand. Most small trailers need:

  • Two tail lights

  • Two brake lights

  • Two signal lights (often combined in the same assembly)

  • Amber marker lights on both front corners

  • A license plate lamp

• Fenders over the tires

• Tires with sufficient tread

• Receipts for parts or materials if the trailer was built from scrap or purchased parts

Large Trailers

Trailers weighing over 2,000 lbs (empty weight) must meet all the requirements above and:

• Have a functional break-away brake

• Trailers with more than two axles must have brakes on at least one axle that can be operated from the towing vehicle