If you have built your teardrop trailer and want to explore the scenic roads of Alabama, you need to register it with the state first. In this article, we will show you how to register your DIY teardrop trailer in Alabama, what forms and fees you need, and what to do after you have your license plate.
Key Takeaways
This is the bare bones of how to register your DIY teardrop trailer in Alabama.
- You need to apply for an Alabama Assigned Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) by filling out the INV 26-1 form and paying $15 to the Alabama Department of Revenue (ADOR).
- You need to get your trailer inspected by the ADOR and receive a certificate of inspection.
- You need to submit the required documents and fees to your local county licensing office and receive your title, registration, and tag.
- The documents and fees may vary depending on the size, weight, and value of your trailer, as well as the county where you live. You will need to provide proof of ownership, receipts for major components, a weight slip, a photo ID, and a completed application form. You may also need to pay sales tax, property tax, title fee, registration fee, and tag fee, depending on your situation.
Applying for an Alabama Assigned Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
A VIN is a unique 17-digit code that identifies your vehicle and provides information about its make, model, year, and features. A VIN is necessary for a homemade trailer, as it helps the state track and verify your trailer’s ownership, registration, and history. To apply for an Alabama Assigned VIN, you need to fill out the INV 26-1 form, which you can download from the ADOR website or get from your local county licensing office. You also need to pay a $15 fee to the ADOR by mail or in person.
Getting Your Trailer Inspected and Receiving a Certificate of Inspection
After you apply for a VIN, you need to get your trailer inspected by the ADOR and receive a certificate of inspection. The inspection will verify that your trailer meets the safety and equipment standards and that the VIN matches the one on your proof of ownership. You can schedule an inspection by calling the ADOR at (334) 242-9000. You will need to bring the following items to the inspection:
- Your completed INV 26-1 form
- Your proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale or a manufacturer’s certificate of origin
- Your photo ID, such as a driver’s license or a passport
- Your trailer, with the VIN plate attached
Submitting the Required Documents and Fees to Your Local County Licensing Office
Once you pass the inspection, you need to submit the required documents and fees to your local county licensing office and receive your title, registration, and tag. The documents and fees may vary depending on the size, weight, and value of your trailer, as well as the county where you live. You can find the contact information and requirements of your county licensing office on the ADOR website. In general, you will need to provide the following items:
- Your certificate of inspection from the ADOR
- Your proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale or a manufacturer’s certificate of origin
- Your receipts for major components, such as the frame, axle, tires, and lights
- Your weight slip, which shows the empty weight of your trailer
- Your photo ID, such as a driver’s license or a passport
- Your completed Vehicle Transaction Application (Form 812)
- Your payment for the sales tax, property tax, title fee, registration fee, and tag fee, if applicable
Forms and Fees for Registering Your DIY Teardrop Trailer in Alabama
| Form | Description | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| INV 26-1 | Required for applying for an Alabama Assigned VIN | $15 |
| Vehicle Transaction Application (Form 812) | Required for initial registration and title application | N/A |
| Title Fee | Required for obtaining a title for your trailer | $15 |
| Registration Fee | Required for registering your trailer for one year | Varies by county and weight |
| Tag Fee | Required for obtaining a license plate for your trailer | Varies by county and type |
Register your DIY Teardrop Trailer in Alabama: Contacts
Now you know how to register your new DIY Teardrop Trailer in Alabama. Next task? Go camping!! Enjoy.
Here are some useful ADOR contact information for your reference:
- ADOR website: https://www.revenue.alabama.gov/division/motor-vehicle/
- ADOR phone number: (334) 242-9000
- ADOR email: motorvehicle@revenue.alabama.gov
- ADOR mailing address: Alabama Department of Revenue, Motor Vehicle Division, P.O. Box 327640, Montgomery, AL 36132-7640