I Don’t Have A Title. How Do I Register My Trailer In North Carolina?

Check out this video on "I don't have a title, how do I register a trailer in North Carolina?"

So, you’ve got a trailer but no title? Don’t sweat it. Whether you’re new to North Carolina or dealing with a trailer purchased without proper paperwork, we’ve got some ways to help you get your trailer titled and registered.

The Basics: Titling and Registering a Trailer in NC

First, let’s cover the essentials. To title and register a trailer in North Carolina, head to your local NC DMV tag office with these documents:

1. Valid North Carolina Driver’s License

2. Proof of Insurance on the Tow Vehicle

   1. Insurance card showing provider and policy number

   2. Declaration page or other proof including the provider and policy number

3. Bill of Sale

   1. Includes buyer and seller’s full name and address, date of purchase, amount of purchase, and signatures

4. MCO (Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin) or Title

   1. If new, a notarized MCO assigned to the purchaser

   2. If used, a properly re-assigned and notarized title

5. Damage Disclosure Statement

   1. Required if the trailer is 5 year models old or newer.

No Title?  Let’s find out what we need to do

Trailers without titles are more common than you think. Here are scenarios and solutions:

Purchased Without a Title

1. Seller Has an MCO But Never Registered or Titled

   1. The original purchaser needs to title the trailer in the state the MCO was assigned to. Once they get their title, they can reassign it to you. Along with a Bill of Sale and proof of insurance, these documents will be required for titling and registering in NC.

2. Purchased in a State That Doesn’t Require Titles

   1. States like South Carolina don’t always require trailer titling. If moving to NC, try to get a title from the original state’s DMV. If not possible, follow the NC process for trailers without titles.

3. Seller Lost the Title

   1. If the seller lost the NC title, they can apply for a duplicate using NC DMV Form MVR-4. Once they get the duplicate, it can be reassigned to you. You'll need the reassigned title, Bill of Sale, and proof of NC vehicle insurance to title and register the trailer.

4. Homemade Trailers:  If you build a trailer yourself, special steps are needed, often involving additional forms and inspections.

5. Inherited Trailers:  Check out this information on "I inherited a trailer, how do I title and register it in North Carolina?"

Steps to Register a Trailer Without a Title

If you can’t get a title, follow these steps:

1. Gather Essential Documents

   1. Valid North Carolina Driver’s License

   2. Proof of Insurance on the Tow Vehicle

   3. Bill of Sale: Include all necessary details

2. Visit the NC DMV Tag Office:  Bring your documents to the local tag office. They will inform you if additional documentation is needed based on your specific case.

3. Get Additional Forms and Inspections:

   1.  You will likely need additional forms completed by an NCDMV License & Theft Officer. Schedule an appointment for an officer to inspect your trailer and verify it’s not stolen.  This process often requires the trailer to be appraised and bonded to complete the inspection

4. Complete the Process: Once the inspection is done and forms are completed, return to the tag office to finalize titling and registration.

Why Trailer Titles and Registration Are Crucial

• Proof of Ownership: Essential for buying, selling, or financing your trailer.

• Legal Compliance: Ensures your trailer meets safety and emission standards.

• Insurance: Required to obtain and keep auto insurance.

• Traffic Enforcement: Helps law enforcement identify the owner in case of violations or crimes.

• Personal Identification: Useful in cases of theft or other issues.

Conclusion

Getting your trailer titled and registered in North Carolina, even without a title, is manageable if you follow these steps. Make sure you have all necessary documents and understand the process, including potential inspections and additional forms. This will ensure your trailer is legally compliant, protecting your investment and keeping you on the right side of the law.

If you need help with titling and registration or need trailers, parts and service? Call come by check us out on the web at nctrailers.com.

NEXT UP: PART 5: TITLE AND REGISTRATION BLOGS: I INHERITED A TRAILER.  HOW DO I TITLE AND REGISTER AN INHERITED TRAILER IN NORTH CAROLINA?