Trailer Registrations

In Florida, utility and boat trailers less than 2,000lbs are not issued a title. Instead, they are registered and issued a license plate; the registration serves as an ownership document, and contains a bill of sale. On newer utility trailer registrations the Bill of Sale is located in the lower right hand corner of the registration. The average cost to register a boat or utility trailer is between $60-$70, depending on the weight.

Registration Requirements

New utility trailers - 1,999lbs or less

• The original Manufacturer's Statement of Origin, which shows a "complete chain" of ownership from dealer to dealer until finally assigned to the customer by the selling dealer/manufacturer. (It must show the empty weight of the trailer; if not, a weight slip is required.)
• Proof of purchase price/sales tax paid (must be one of the following):
• If sold by a Florida dealer, they may complete and submit a Trailer Sales Tax Statement.
• Otherwise, the customer must submit an invoice* from the dealer/manufacturer showing the purchase price and sales tax collected.

*If the invoice is a "generic" invoice (no business logo/information imprinted on it, etc.), the dealer must also provide their Sales Tax Resale Certificate number that allows them to collect sales tax in the State of Florida. The dealer can write the number on the invoice.

Used utility or boat trailers, 1,999lbs or less

Submit one of the following as proof of ownership:

• Bill of Sale that contains the VIN and other vehicle details, which is signed by the seller and lists the purchaser.
• Prior owner's Registration and a Bill of Sale, which is signed by the seller and lists the purchaser. If the prior owner's Registration is submitted, the Bill of Sale does not need VIN or other vehicle information.
• Dealer invoice
• A dealer Trailer Sales Tax Statement (if bought from a Florida dealer).
• Out-of-state Title, Registration, or a Manufacturer's Statement of Origin, which shows a complete "chain of ownership."

And one of the following to prove the empty weight:

• Weight slip (Click here for a list of weigh stations.)
• Existing state system record
• Weight indicated on dealer paperwork
• Weight indicated on out-of-state title/registration
• Prior Florida registration

Homemade trailers

When registering a homemade utility or boat trailer, you must submit:

• Bill of sale w/perjury clause or notary, if purchased from the builder
• A weight slip to prove empty weight. Click here for a list of weigh stations.

Note: If the homemade trailer is 2,000lbs or more, the above requirements apply along with an inspection certificate issued by the DMV Regional office. Please call the DMV Regional office at 941-723-4551 for an appointment.