i figured i'd ask because, well, someone here has had to of done it before.

anyways, i just purchased a harbor freight 12" tire trailer and before i begin to assemble it, i'd ask how do i go about registering it in the state of virginia? yes, i could just go down to the DMV with my certificate of origin from china and ask, but i'd figure before i waste 8 hours of time, i'd make a post and see what i need to do. thanks guys!

 

from my understanding anything with an axle,store bought or homemade must be registered. but i dont know VA state laws. this is how rhode island is.

i use a 4'x6' home depot utility trailer, registration was simple aslong as you have the receipt from your purchase to show you paid sales tax and the paperwork for the trailer.

 

yeah, i know i've got to register it. i did not pay sales tax due to it being an online transaction. i do have my receipt, also i do have the paperwork. we'll see!

 

gotcha you shouldnt have an issue.
all the dmv is going to do is charge you sales tax to what your receipt price was. and charge you for the registration fee. i paid $12.00 for the year.

 

When I bought my HF trailer for karting, I needed to take it to the dmv so they could physically see the serial number on the trailer and match it to the paperwork that came with the trailer.
Registration was I think 15 bux. It was an option to have a pink slip created for it..
I passed on that one.

 

word... cali smells like poop, though, so they do everything different anyways. besides, owning this trailer in the state of california has caused cancer in people. glad i live in VA.

 

You go to your local DMV and tell them you have a home-built trailer. They give you a form with a phone number to your local state troopers office. They also give you a VIN plate you have to attach to the trailer. You call the state trooper to come out and verify the trailer has the VIN plate properly mounted and is safe by DOT standards (lights, safety chains, etc.), he signs off and you go get tags. I have had to do this with 2 of my jet-ski trailers.

If you have any questions, PM me.

 

Also in VA, besides all trailers needing to be registered, anything over I think 3500 GVW or has brakes needs to be inspected annually. But the best deal is to get permanent plates and you never pay or fuss with registration or renewals again.

Please correct me if I am off on the weight for inspection.

 

you are correct. my trailer has a GVWR of 1250lbs. i am well under.

 

It's 3000 GVWR in VA. Pretty much if the trailer requires brakes, which is the 3000lb limit as well it requires an inspection.

 

went to DMV. gave them Cert. of origin and sales receipt. paid $115 for taxes and a perminent tag. that is all. did not have to get trailer inspected. heck, i'm still finishing it. one of my lights came busted.. gotta get a new one. don't feel like dealing with HF. it took so long to get some of the parts.