Texas Trailer Title Transfer
Trailer title requirements in Texas 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 County Tax Assessor-Collector.
Title Threshold
Trailers over 4,000 lbs GVWR
Texas does NOT require a title for trailers with a GVWR of 4,000 lbs or less. Trailers over 4,000 lbs GVWR require a title through the county tax assessor-collector.
Title Fee
$28–$33
Standard TX title fee. County fees may vary slightly.
Processing Time
2–3 weeks
County tax offices typically process title applications same-day or within a few business days. Title certificate mailed in 2–3 weeks.
Commercial Threshold
No separate commercial registration for trailers in TX
Texas uses GVWR weight tiers for fee calculation but does not have a separate "commercial trailer registration" category the way some states do.
Permanent Registration
Available
Texas offers permanent registration for trailers — a one-time fee eliminates annual renewal. Popular for utility and farm trailers.
Required Documents
- 1Form 130-U (Application for Texas Title)
- 2Signed title or MCO
- 3Bill of sale
- 4Proof of insurance (for trailers over 4,000 lbs)
- 5Payment for fees
Trailers under 4,000 lbs GVWR: registration only through county tax office. No title needed, no 130-U required.
Specialty Trailer Rules
Horse & Livestock Trailers
Horse and livestock trailers follow the same 4,000 lbs GVWR threshold. Most enclosed horse trailers (2-horse slant, 3-horse) exceed 4,000 lbs GVWR and require a title.
Boat Trailers
Boat trailers over 4,000 lbs require a title through the county tax office (not TPWD). Under 4,000 lbs: registration only. The boat itself is titled separately through TPWD.
Texas Note
Texas permanent trailer registration is one of the best deals in the country for frequently-used trailers. Confirm current permanent reg fee at your county office.
Frequently Asked Questions
What GVWR trailers require a title in Texas?
Trailers over 4,000 lbs GVWR. Texas does NOT require a title for trailers with a GVWR of 4,000 lbs or less. Trailers over 4,000 lbs GVWR require a title through the county tax assessor-collector.
How much does a trailer title cost in Texas?
The trailer title fee in Texas is $28–$33. Standard TX title fee. County fees may vary slightly.
Do I need a separate title for a horse trailer in Texas?
Horse and livestock trailers follow the same 4,000 lbs GVWR threshold. Most enclosed horse trailers (2-horse slant, 3-horse) exceed 4,000 lbs GVWR and require a title.
How is a boat trailer titled in Texas?
Boat trailers over 4,000 lbs require a title through the county tax office (not TPWD). Under 4,000 lbs: registration only. The boat itself is titled separately through TPWD.