Florida requires a bill of sale for any new or used trailer sold or transferred in the state. A bill of sale is needed to obtain a title for a previously untitled trailer and to license all newly acquired trailers.
In Florida, only trailers over 2000 pounds are required to have a title. However, all trailers must be registered and licensed to operate on the roads.
Registering a Trailer in Florida
New residents must register their vehicles within ten days of establishing residency in Florida. Registrations are handled by Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Department in the county where the owner resides. A list of administrative offices can be found on the main FLHSMV site.
What Paperwork Is Required To Register a Trailer in Florida?
Only trailers over 2000 pounds are required to have both titles and registrations. Trailers under 2000 pounds must have a license and registration but do not need titles.
To register a used or homemade trailer under 2000 pounds, you will need the following:
- A bill of sale
- A weight slip. For homemade trailers, the weight slip must be certified
- One of these documents must include the Trailer Identification Number
For trailers over 2000 pounds, you will need the following:
- An Application for Certificate of Title
- A Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (for new trailers) or,
- A bill of sale (for used trailers)
- Title, signed by all prior owners
- Any lienholder information
- Trailer Information Number verification
State sales tax may be required if an out-of-state trailer is being transferred into Florida. Buyers should check the FHSMV website to confirm the tax status of their trailer before completing the transaction.
Titles with two or more owners may have names joined with “and” or “or.” Florida law makes a distinction between these two styles. Owners joined by “and” share equal responsibility for the property, and all owners must be present or designate a power of attorney for transfers or sales (i.e., “Jones and Smith”).
Owners joined by “or” are each responsible for the property, and either one may sign a bill of sale transferring the property on behalf of all owners (i.e., “Jones or Smith).
Trailer Registration Fees
Florida has a base registration fee by the weight of the trailer. Sales taxes and other fees may be assessed depending on the county and other factors. Buyers are encouraged to check with the county before making the final purchase of their trailer.
Title for Trailer
All trailers over 2000 pounds must be titled and registered. Trailers below 2000 pounds do not need titles but must be licensed when traveling on public roads.
Insurance
To register a vehicle with at least four wheels in Florida, you must show proof of both Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Property Damage Liability (PDL) coverage. This must be issued by either a Florida-licensed insurance company or with an FLHSMV self-insurance certificate. You must have insurance before registering your vehicle.
Exemptions
Florida has no exemptions for trailers. All trailers must have at least licenses and registrations to be used on Florida highways.
Florida Trailer Bill of Sale Sample
Download a Florida trailer bill of sale template below in PDF or Word format:
