California Trailer Title Transfer
Trailer title requirements in California depend on the trailer's GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). Below the threshold — registration only, no title needed. Above the threshold — title required through the California DMV.
Title Threshold
All trailers used on public roads
California requires a title for all trailers operated on California public roads, regardless of GVWR. Even small utility trailers need a REG 343 title application.
Title Fee
$21
Standard CA DMV title fee applies equally to utility, cargo, horse, and boat trailers.
Processing Time
4–8 weeks
CA DMV mail-in processing. Significant backlog possible. Online registration renewal for existing trailers is faster.
Commercial Threshold
10,000 lbs GVWR
Trailers over 10,000 lbs GVWR must be registered as commercial vehicles with commercial registration fees (higher). Weight certificate may be required.
Permanent Registration
Not Available
California does not offer permanent registration for trailers — annual renewal is required.
Required Documents
- 1Completed REG 343 (Application for Title)
- 2Signed title or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO)
- 3Bill of sale
- 4VIN/VIN plate verification (out-of-state trailers require CHP inspection)
- 5Payment for fees
California assigns a VIN to trailers that don't have one from the manufacturer. CHP inspection required to verify serial number on out-of-state trailers.
Specialty Trailer Rules
Horse & Livestock Trailers
Horse trailers follow standard trailer title rules in California. No separate livestock permit required for the trailer itself.
Boat Trailers
Boat trailers are titled separately from the boat. The trailer gets a standard vehicle title; the boat gets a separate REG 343 (vessel) title or documentation.
California Note
California's CVRA (Commercial Vehicle Registration Act) applies to trailers over 10,000 lbs and involves different weight fee schedules. Confirm GVWR before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What GVWR trailers require a title in California?
All trailers used on public roads. California requires a title for all trailers operated on California public roads, regardless of GVWR. Even small utility trailers need a REG 343 title application.
How much does a trailer title cost in California?
The trailer title fee in California is $21. Standard CA DMV title fee applies equally to utility, cargo, horse, and boat trailers.
Do I need a separate title for a horse trailer in California?
Horse trailers follow standard trailer title rules in California. No separate livestock permit required for the trailer itself.
How is a boat trailer titled in California?
Boat trailers are titled separately from the boat. The trailer gets a standard vehicle title; the boat gets a separate REG 343 (vessel) title or documentation.