If you own a trailer in Arkansas, you must understand the registration requirements. You could face penalties if you pull the trailer on public roads without the right tags. You will also want to secure a trailer bill of sale in Arkansas to help ensure it is legal for use.
Registering a Trailer in Arkansas
It is illegal to neglect to register a trailer when required by law [1] . You cannot legally take your trailer onto public roads without tagging it through the Department of Motor Vehicles.
You have 30 days after purchasing a trailer to register it. Registration must occur in person at a DMV location. Online registration services are only available for motor vehicles.
What Paperwork Is Required To Register a Trailer in Arkansas?
The registration process is fairly simple. You will only need the following documents:
- Completed application
- Arkansas trailer bill of sale, manufacturer’s certificate, or out-of-state title
The Arkansas trailer bill of sale (PDF or paper) must include all details of the sale, especially the date. You also should make sure it contains identifying details for the trailer.
Trailer Registration Fees
Most registration charges depend on the weight of the trailer when loaded. It is your responsibility to ensure the registration matches the loaded gross weight. If you haul heavier, you must re-register for the new weight class.
A trailer with a load capacity of one ton or less, drawn by automobiles and Class One trucks (gross loaded weight of less than one ton), will cost $21 every three years. Permanent registration costs $36 but does not transfer to a new owner.
A full trailer used in farming or natural resources has a flat rate of $8 for registration. Other full trailers not specified have an annual fee based on the gross loaded weight.
If you are unsure of the weight, consult your Arkansas bill of sale for the trailer. Loaded weight may vary, but you should be able to estimate based on the hauling capacity.
Title for Trailer
The state has no titling requirement for trailers without motive power [2] .
Insurance
Most of the time, your auto insurance will cover any trailer you haul with the covered vehicle. Still, you may need supplemental insurance based on your policy coverage limits. The insurance may not cover actual damage to the trailer and offer only liability coverage should you cause an accident that harms someone else or their property. You can usually add coverage for the trailer to your existing policy.
Note there is no state requirement to have insurance on a trailer.
Exemptions
You do not have to register your trailer in Arkansas if you are using it only to cross a roadway to get from one property to another. Another exemption arises if you are transporting logs or timber to their first processing area. You may wish to specify on the bill of sale for the trailer in Arkansas that it meets one of these exceptions.
Arkansas Trailer Bill of Sale Sample
Download an Arkansas trailer bill of sale template below in PDF or Word format:
