If you’re planning to travel Minnesota’s roads with your DIY teardrop trailer, register your teardrop trailer in Minnesota with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services. Registering your DIY teardrop trailer ensures you comply with all legal requirements and can enjoy your trailer safely.
Key Takeaways
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| VIN | Required for registration, serves as your trailer’s unique identifier. |
| Title | Essential document to prove ownership; specific forms required. |
| License Plate | Required for legal operation; associated with title and registration. |
| Taxes and Fees | Includes title fee, transfer tax, and various surcharges. |
| Inspection | Mandatory inspection by Minnesota State Police before titling. |
Get Your Trailer Inspected and a VIN Number in Minnesota
Minnesota requires all trailers, including DIY builds, to be inspected and assigned a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) before registration.
- Schedule a VIN Inspection: Contact the Minnesota State Police or an authorized inspection station to arrange your trailer’s inspection. This is crucial for obtaining your VIN.
- Prepare for the Inspection: Ensure your trailer meets Minnesota’s safety standards. Weigh your trailer, as its specifications may affect the inspection.
- Documentation Preparation: Complete the Title and Register Motor Vehicle Application (PS2000B-46) and the Homemade Trailer Construction form. Collect all receipts for significant components used in your trailer’s construction.
Detailed Inspection Checklist:
- Lighting: Ensure operational brake lights, turn signals, tail lights, and reflectors.
- Brakes: Verify that all braking systems function correctly.
- Safety Chains: Check that safety chains are present and robust enough to support the trailer’s weight.
- Coupler: Inspect the device that connects the trailer to the towing vehicle for security and condition.
- Tires and Fenders: Tires should be properly inflated and in good condition; fenders must cover the wheels adequately.
Once your trailer passes the inspection, you will be issued a VIN, which needs to be displayed on your trailer.
Get a Title and a License Plate for Your Trailer in Minnesota
With the VIN in hand, proceed to register and title your trailer.
- Visit the Department of Public Safety: Bring your completed forms (PS2000B-46 and Homemade Trailer Construction), inspection certificate, and proof of insurance for the towing vehicle.
- Submit Required Documentation: Include all receipts for trailer components, the VIN plate, and a valid driver’s license or state ID.
Forms and Fees Table
| Form | Description | Link | Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PS2000B-46 | Application for title and registration | PS2000B-46 Form | Varies |
| Title Fee | For issuing the title | $8.25 | |
| Transfer Tax | Charged for transferring title | $10 | |
| Public Safety Vehicle Fee | For funding public safety services | $3.50 | |
| Technology Surcharge | For maintaining technological services | $2.25 | |
| Filing Fee | Administrative cost for filing | $12 |
Keep Your Trailer Current with the State of Minnesota
Stay informed about the renewal requirements and maintain your registration as required by Minnesota law.
- Keep Documentation Current: Update all registration documents and insurance to reflect any changes in ownership or address.
Register Your DIY Teardrop Trailer in Minnesota: Contacts
Register your DIY teardrop trailer in Minnesota and explore the state legally and safely. For further assistance or specific queries:
- Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Driver and Vehicle Services: Minnesota DVS Website
- DVS Phone Number: (651) 297-2126
Embark on your Minnesota adventures confidently, knowing your teardrop trailer meets all necessary legal requirements!
For more detailed information on the titling and registration process, visit the DVS’s official website and explore specific requirements and fees.