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: small utility trailers can opt into a one-time fee instead of annual registration.
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Trailer titling rules trip up many sellers — GVWR thresholds, separate boat trailer titles, and state notarization requirements all vary. Our step-by-step writing guide ensures you capture every field DMVs actually need. Read: How to Write a Bill of Sale (Step-by-Step) →
California Trailer Bill of Sale — What You Need to Know
Primary ID Field
VIN
Sales Tax
7.25%
Title Required
Yes
Utility and travel trailers over a certain weight get full titles. Under ~2,000 lbs utility trailers may use Permanent Trailer Identification (PTI) plates instead of annual registration.
Inspection
Not required
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 inspection rules apply for trailers over 1,500 lbs gross weight.
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 transfer once and don't need annual renewal.
- Seller signs title; hand over any manufacturer's weight certificate for trailers that were self-fabricated or homemade.
- 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: trailers over 6,000 lbs pay higher fees and may need safety equipment disclosures.
- Selling a homemade (home-built) trailer without the original Weight and Construction certification — 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.
California Trailer Bill of Sale — FAQs
What is PTI registration in California?
Permanent Trailer Identification (PTI) is a one-time California registration option for non-commercial utility and travel trailers. Instead of renewing annually, owners pay a one-time fee and receive a permanent plate. When a PTI trailer is sold, the new owner completes a title transfer and inherits the PTI registration.
Does a California trailer need a smog or brake inspection to sell?
No smog required. Brake inspection rules are complex: trailers under 1,500 lbs gross weight generally don't need brakes, while trailers 1,500–3,000 lbs need at least one axle braked, and over 3,000 lbs need brakes on all axles. The buyer is responsible for confirming brake compliance — no state inspection required at sale.
Do I file REG 138 for a trailer sale in California?
Yes. California law treats trailers like vehicles for liability purposes. If you sell a trailer and the buyer racks up toll violations, parking tickets, or weigh-station citations before transferring the title, the last registered owner (you) is still liable until REG 138 is filed. Always file within 5 days.
Other California Templates
🚘Vehicle Bill of Sale🚗Car Bill of Sale🚙Used Car Bill of Sale🏍️Motorcycle Bill of Sale⛵Boat Bill of Sale🐴Horse Bill of Sale🏎️ATV Bill of Sale🔫Gun / Firearm Bill of Sale🏕️RV Bill of Sale📄General Bill of Sale🖨️Free Printable Bill of Sale📏Odometer Disclosure Bill of Sale⚠️As-Is Bill of Sale🎁Gift Bill of Sale