Titling a non-titled vintage trailer, like a 1969 Shasta Compact, can be a challenge, but it’s possible with the right paperwork. In Florida (Continue reading for getting a title in California and Texas), the required documents include a bill of sale signed by both the buyer and seller, an old registration slip showing the serial number as the VIN, and a completed Florida title application. However, one trailer owner learned the process can involve a few unexpected twists.
When the owner brought all the required paperwork to a tag agency in Broward County, they were told additional documents were needed. This included a certified weight slip from a Florida-certified scale and a signed inspection document from an active police officer confirming the serial number (SN) or VIN matched the registration slip. Interestingly, a friend later mentioned that these extra steps aren’t legally required in Florida—so it’s always worth double-checking with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
To get the weight slip, the owner visited a truck stop with a Florida-certified scale. After towing the trailer onto the scale, unhitching, and weighing it, they received the required certified slip. Next, they visited a local police station, where an officer reviewed the old Georgia registration slip. The officer was initially skeptical about the trailer’s serial number being used as a VIN since most vintage trailers weren’t issued VINs. After some investigation on Georgia’s DMV website, the officer confirmed the number was legitimate and signed the document.
With the additional paperwork in hand, the owner returned to the tag agency and successfully received a Florida title, registration, and a standard license plate. Unfortunately, the request for an antique tag was denied because Florida doesn’t consider trailers “vehicles” since they lack engines—an ironic stance considering they still require a VIN.
As a fun workaround, the owner’s wife found a vintage Florida license plate from 1968-69 at an antique shop. Now, the plate will be part of the Shasta’s display during rallies.
What About Other States?
The process for titling vintage trailers varies by state. For example:
- California: If the trailer doesn’t have a California title or the original registration card, you’ll need:
- A completed REG 343 form with the purchase price.
- A REG 31 form, signed by a DMV employee or peace officer.
- A REG 256 form, detailing how and when the trailer was acquired, efforts to obtain ownership evidence, and its current value.
California also offers private restoration services to help navigate the process.
- Texas: Texas may require a bonded title for untitled trailers. This is a temporary document that proves ownership and is also called a certificate of title surety bond or lost title bond.
Check with your local DMV for the specific requirements in your state. Have you gone through the process of titling a vintage trailer? Share your experiences with us below!
