Trailer Tag Blues Got You Down? Don't Trailer Trash Your Day! A Guide to Getting Plates in Ohio
So, you've snagged yourself a shiny new trailer, or maybe you inherited Uncle Bob's questionable-looking camper from the 70s (hey, free is free!). Now you're itching to hit the road, but that dream vacation is looking a little rusty without some official trailer tags. Don't worry, buckle up, because we're about to navigate the not-so-treacherous waters of getting your trailer licensed in Ohio. We'll have you cruising in no time, with minimal paperwork cuts and bureaucratic hiccups (hopefully).
Step 1: Title Troubles? We've Got You Covered (Unless It's Literally Covered in Cobwebs)
First things first, you gotta figure out your trailer's title situation. Here's the skinny:
- Lightweight Lou: If your trailer weighs less than 4,000 lbs (bless its little aluminum heart), you probably don't need a title. Just whip out that certificate of origin (like a birth certificate for your trailer) and a bill of sale (proof you didn't steal it), and you're golden.
- Heavyweight Hank: For trailers over 4,000 lbs (think fancy boat trailers or horse trailers), you'll need a proper title in your name. You can snag this at your local county title office. Pro-tip: Don't lose this important document! It's like the Holy Grail of trailer ownership.
Step 2: The Paperwork Parade (Don't Faint, It's Not That Long)
Now, gather your courage and paperwork like a champion. Here's what you'll need to bring to your local deputy registrar license agency (basically the DMV's cooler cousin):
- Proof of ownership: That certificate of origin or title we mentioned earlier.
- Valid ID: Show them you're a real person, not a rogue trailer impersonator. Driver's license, state ID, you get the idea.
- Completed vehicle inspection certificate (DPS 1373): This basically says your trailer is safe for the road and won't fall apart on the highway (hopefully). You can get this done at a licensed inspection station.
- Proof of Social Security number or tax ID: Gotta make sure Uncle Sam gets his cut.
Step 3: The Big (Not Really) Payoff - Hand Over the Cash!
Alright, time to settle up. The fees will vary depending on your trailer's weight and registration length, but hey, at least you're not buying a whole new trailer, right?
Congratulations! You've Got Plates, Baby!
Now that all that jazz is done, you'll get a temporary tag to hold you over until your official license plate arrives in the mail. Fun fact: In Ohio, you can choose permanent trailer registration, which means you only pay once for a set number of years. No more annual renewal headaches!
Remember: Don't forget to register your trailer every year (or eight years if you went the permanent route). Nobody likes scofflaw trailers!
Trailer Tag FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered (Probably)
- How to find a deputy registrar license agency? Just Google "https://bmv.ohio.gov/dr-rfp.aspx" and let the magic of the internet do its thing.
- How long does it take to get my trailer plates? Typically, you'll get a temporary tag right away, and your permanent plates should arrive within 10-14 business days.
- How much does it cost to register a trailer in Ohio? Fees vary depending on weight and registration length, but you can check the BMV website (https://www.bmv.ohio.gov/) for estimates.
- Do I need to get my trailer inspected before I register it? Yup, you'll need a completed vehicle inspection certificate (DPS 1373) to register your trailer.
- Can I personalize my trailer plates in Ohio? Sorry, champ. Trailer plates in Ohio are system-assigned, so no vanity plates for your beloved "Rusty Reliant."