Free California Trailer Bill of Sale
California treats trailer sales like car sales — same 10-day transfer window, same REG 138 filing, same REG 135 bill of sale. The key difference is the Permanent Trailer Identification (PTI) program: most trailers, including utility trailers, are registered under PTI instead of annual registration, with a small service fee due every five years.
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California Trailer Bill of Sale — What You Need to Know
Sales Tax Details
Same use tax rate as cars (7.25%+ district). Trailers over 6,000 lbs pay graduated registration fees.
Inspection Requirements
No smog or safety inspection for non-motorized trailers. Brake equipment rules apply: camp trailers and trailer coaches of 1,500 lbs or more, and other trailers of 3,000 lbs or more, need brakes on at least two wheels.
California Trailer Sale — Step-by-Step Checklist
- Verify trailer VIN matches title and bill of sale — VINs are usually stamped on the tongue or a plate on the frame.
- Complete REG 135 with VIN, year/make, trailer type, length, empty weight, and sale price.
- Confirm whether the trailer is annually registered or PTI-registered — PTI trailers don't renew yearly, but a $10 service fee is due every five years.
- Seller signs title; hand over any paperwork you have for a homemade trailer (receipts, weight certificate, prior registration).
- Seller files REG 138 within 5 days to release liability (yes, even for trailers — tolls and citations apply).
- Buyer completes title transfer within 10 days at a CA DMV office.
- Buyer pays 7.25%+ use tax based on sale price.
- Trailers over 10,000 lbs gross weight: additional commercial registration rules may apply.
Common Pitfalls
- Assuming a trailer doesn't need title transfer — it does, and sellers remain liable for tickets (toll, weight) until transfer completes.
- Confusing PTI vs. annual registration: PTI trailers were permanently registered under the original owner and need to be transferred accordingly.
- Missing weight classification: heavier trailers have stricter brake rules (3,000 lbs+) and commercial rules may apply over 10,000 lbs.
- Selling a homemade (home-built) trailer without its original registration paperwork — the buyer will need this for title.
Pro Tip
Trailer sales in California are process-identical to car sales, minus the smog. Whether it's a utility trailer or a 40-foot fifth wheel, REG 135 + title + REG 138 within 5 days covers the seller's side.