If you’re hauling in Arizona—whether with a gooseneck trailer, deckover trailer, or a simple utility trailer—you may be wondering: Do trailers need license plates in Arizona?
The short answer is: Yes, almost all trailers in Arizona must be registered and display a license plate.
But the exact requirements depend on your trailer’s weight, type, and purpose. In this guide, the team at Fleming Trailers breaks down everything you need to know about Arizona trailer registration, from license plate requirements to registration fees and even how to register a trailer without a title.
Do Trailers Need License Plates in Arizona?
Yes. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), all trailers operated on public roads in Arizona must be registered and issued a license plate.
This includes:
- Utility trailers
- Cargo trailers
- Gooseneck trailers
- Deckover trailers
- Travel trailers and campers
- Boat trailers
- Homemade trailers
The only exceptions are very specific types of farm-use trailers or non-road equipment, and even then, you’ll usually need a special permit.
So, if your trailer is touching Arizona pavement, assume it needs plates.
Arizona Trailer Registration: The Basics
1. Registration Requirements by Weight
Arizona classifies trailers by their gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR):
- Light trailers: Up to 10,000 lbs GVWR
- Heavy trailers: Over 10,000 lbs GVWR
Your trailer’s weight class determines the registration type and fees you’ll pay.
2. Permanent vs. Annual Registration
One unique thing about Arizona: certain trailers qualify for permanent registration.
- Permanent trailer registration: Available for non-commercial trailers with a declared GVWR under 10,000 lbs. Once you pay a one-time fee, you’ll never have to renew again.
- Annual registration: Required for commercial trailers and trailers over 10,000 lbs GVWR.
This is a big advantage for Arizona haulers—if you’ve got a smaller utility trailer, you may be able to register it once and be done for good.
How to Register a Trailer in Arizona
Registering a trailer in Arizona is a fairly straightforward process, but it does require the right paperwork.
To register a trailer, you’ll need:
| 📄 | A completed Title and Registration Application (Form 96-0236) |
| 🧾 | Proof of ownership (title, bill of sale, or Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin) |
| 🪪 | Photo ID |
| 💳 | Payment for taxes and registration fees |
| 🔍 | An inspection, if the trailer is homemade or coming from out of state |
Where to register:
- At your local MVD office (Motor Vehicle Division)
- Through an authorized third-party MVD provider
- Online, in some cases (for renewals or simple transfers)
How Much Are Arizona Trailer Registration Fees?
Fees vary depending on trailer weight and whether it qualifies for permanent registration:
Trailer Type | Weight / GVWR | Registration Type | Fee |
Utility / Travel Trailer | Under 10,000 lbs (non-commercial) | Permanent | $125 one-time fee |
Utility / Travel Trailer | Under 10,000 lbs (commercial use) | Annual | Based on Vehicle License Tax (VLT) + fees |
Heavy Trailer | Over 10,000 lbs | Annual | Based on VLT + weight fees |
Camper / Travel Trailer | Varies | Annual or Permanent | Depends on size, weight, and use |
Permanent vs. Annual Trailer Registration in Arizona
Feature | Permanent Registration | Annual Registration |
Eligibility | Non-commercial trailers under 10,000 lbs GVWR | Commercial trailers and any trailer over 10,000 lbs GVWR |
Cost | $125 one-time fee | Annual renewal based on Vehicle License Tax (VLT), weight, and use |
Renewals | None – valid for life of the trailer | Must renew every year |
Best For | Personal use utility trailers, small travel trailers, light cargo trailers | Heavy-duty gooseneck trailers, deckover trailers, commercial use trailers |
Long-Term Value | Saves money over time; no annual hassle | Ongoing cost but required for heavy/commercial trailers |
👉 If you’re registering a gooseneck trailer or deckover trailer for business use, expect annual fees that scale with declared weight and taxable value.
👉 If you own a smaller personal-use trailer in Arizona, permanent registration is often the smarter choice. For heavier or commercial trailers, annual registration is unavoidable—but it ensures compliance with DOT and ADOT rules.
How to Register a Trailer Without a Title in Arizona
Here’s the process:
You’ll need a signed bill of sale showing proof of purchase.
Conducted by MVD or a third-party provider. If the trailer doesn’t have a VIN, Arizona will assign one.
If there’s no previous title, you may need to apply for a bonded title to establish ownership.
Once ownership is verified, you can complete your registration and receive plates.
Arizona License Plate Requirements for Trailers
Once registered, all trailers must display a rear license plate. Arizona does not require a front plate for trailers.
- The plate must be securely fastened to the trailer’s rear.
- It must be clearly visible and unobstructed.
- Trailers used at night must have a plate light to illuminate the tag.
Failure to display your plate correctly can lead to tickets, fines, or even being pulled off the road.
Arizona Weigh Station Rules for Trailers
If you’re towing commercially in Arizona, weigh station compliance matters.
- Commercial vehicles with a GVWR over 10,000 lbs (including truck + trailer combo) are subject to DOT rules and weigh station stops.
- Gooseneck trailers and heavy-duty equipment trailers often push vehicles past this 10,000 lb threshold.
- Commercial haulers must also comply with:
- DOT number registration
- Hours-of-service rules
- Safety and maintenance records
👉 For private haulers using a light utility trailer for personal use, weigh station stops usually aren’t required.
Are There Exemptions?
Yes, but they’re limited. Some farm trailers, specially permitted construction trailers, and off-road use trailers may qualify for exemptions. However, these require special permits and paperwork from ADOT.
Trailer Titles vs. Registration: What’s the Difference?
- Title = Ownership
- Registration = Legal use on public roads
If you plan to sell, transfer, or finance your trailer, you’ll need a title. To haul legally in Arizona, you’ll need current registration and plates.
New to Trailers? Fleming Trailers Makes It Simple
If you’re just getting into hauling and don’t yet own a trailer, Fleming Trailers can help you start off on the right foot.
When you buy from us, not only do you get a high-quality gooseneck trailer, deckover trailer, or utility trailer, but we also walk you through the entire Arizona trailer registration process. From title paperwork to getting your plates, we’ll make sure you’re road-ready ASAP.
👉 Explore our trailers today and let us help you hit the road with confidence.
Q&A: Arizona Trailer Registration
Yes, all trailers operated on Arizona roads must be registered and display a rear license plate.
You’ll need a title or bill of sale, proof of ownership, an application form, and payment of fees. Register at your local MVD office or third-party provider.
You’ll need a bill of sale, VIN inspection, and possibly a bonded title before registration.
Travel trailers under 10,000 lbs may qualify for permanent registration ($125). Heavier trailers require annual registration with fees based on vehicle license tax.
Final Thoughts
Yes, trailers need license plates in Arizona. Whether you own a gooseneck trailer, a deckover trailer, or a small utility trailer, proper registration is a must. Arizona’s unique permanent trailer registration option makes compliance easier, but only if you understand the rules.
At Fleming Trailers, we help you every step of the way—from finding the right trailer to walking you through Arizona trailer registration so you can haul legally and safely.
👉 Ready to upgrade your hauling setup? Give our friendly trailer experts a call at (602) 563-5500 today and let our team help you find the perfect trailer for your needs.
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