A North Carolina Trailer Bill of Sale provides essential information to facilitate the transfer of ownership and registration process.
North Carolina laws require you to title and register a trailer with the DMV like you would a car.
Registering a Trailer in North Carolina
Trailer registration is crucial for your North Carolina trailer sale or purchase. To obtain a first-time license plate for your trailer and transfer ownership, visit your nearest North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) office in person.
Paperwork You Need To Register a Trailer in North Carolina
You must first obtain a title to register your trailer in North Carolina. Depending on the circumstances of your trailer purchase, you may need the following documentation:
- Valid North Carolina driver’s license or ID
- Out-of-state driver’s license with a North Carolina Temporary Driving Certificate, if applicable
- Power of attorney for co-owners
- Trailer title or Title Application
- Proof of liability insurance
- Proof of inspection no more than 90 days before the registration date or renewal
- Damage Disclosure Statement
North Carolina Trailer Registration Fees
In North Carolina, you may pay any of the following fees for trailer registration, depending on your county or region:
- Safety inspection fee
- Registration fee
- Certificate of title fees
- County registration tax
- Regional transportation tax
- Notary fees
- License plate transfer or replacement fees
- Highway use tax
- Vehicle property tax
The North Carolina Department of Transportation Division of Motor Vehicles provides a detailed fee schedule, but fees are updated regularly. Contact your local North Carolina DMV office to obtain an estimate for your trailer registration.
North Carolina Insurance Coverage for Trailers
Part of the titling and registration process in North Carolina is establishing financial responsibility. Liability insurance is proof of financial responsibility [1] . Acceptable proof of insurance includes electronic or physical insurance cards or policy documents that meet minimum state coverage requirements.
Drivers must also carry uninsured motorist coverage for a trailer operated on North Carolina roads and highways [2] . Check with your local DMV office or insurance carrier to learn which insurance coverage you need for your trailer in North Carolina.
Exemptions From North Carolina Trailer Registration Requirements
The only exception for North Carolina standard trailer registration and titling requirements is certain farm trailers. Farmers who use trailers to carry or transport farm products and supplies are exempt from registration and titling requirements [3] . You must submit a signed and notarized Farmer Affidavit to qualify for a farm truck registration plate.
Special Requirements and Inspections
North Carolina requires safety inspections for all registered vehicles, including trailers. Inspectors will examine the vehicle’s signals, brakes, tires, and other equipment to ensure compliance with safety guidelines. You must obtain a trailer safety inspection annually within 90 days of your registration or renewal.
North Carolina Trailer Bill of Sale Sample
Download a North Carolina trailer bill of sale template below in PDF or Word format:
