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Utility Trailers

Utility trailers that are designed for pulling behind an automobile or pickup truck remain subject to State Law requirements for registration by the payment of license fees and ad valorem taxes. (Code of Alabama, 1975, 40-12-252).

Exemptions for the title and tag requirements are limited to the following:

  • Boat Trailers
  • Farm Trailers: Trailers are used exclusively for transporting farm products to and from the market or for transporting the personal property of the farmer for his own use on the farm.
  • Equipment Trailers: Trailers with permanently mounted equipment such as a crane or well-drilling equipment. The trailer is not equipped for hauling supplies.
  • Beginning July 1, 2009, utility trailers designed for pulling behind an automobile or pickup truck are exempt from title law. Such trailers remain subject to registration fees and taxes.
  • Beginning January 1, 2012, semi-trailers, gooseneck trailers, recreational trailers, and manufactured homes over 20 model years old are exempt from the title law. Currently, all 1999 and prior year model trailers are exempt. Such trailers remain subject to registration fees and taxes.

Utility trailers required for registration include, but are not limited to, open trailers for commercial equipment, personal mowers, golf carts, horse trailers, enclosed auto transporters, and tow dollies.

A sample of the supporting documents for registration or registration transfer for utility trailers is listed below:

New or Used Utility Trailer Tag Registration

  • Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin or Most Recent Certificate of Title, if available
  • Bill of Sale From Seller to New Buyer (Seller must provide make, model year, and VIN as displayed on trailer)
  • Current Alabama Tag Registration In Seller’s Name
  • No Visual Inspection Is Required

For additional information concerning registration and title provisions, you may wish to contact the Alabama Department of Revenue, Motor Vehicle Division.