Florida trailer — quick answer
In Florida, a trailer bill of sale is recommended and notarization of the title transfer is not required. The state form used for titled vehicles is HSMV 82050. Titling and registration are handled by the FLHSMV.
Is a trailer bill of sale required in Florida?
Recommended. FLHSMV recommends a bill of sale and provides HSMV 82050, which also serves as a notice of sale.
Seller completes the transfer section of the Florida title; the buyer titles and registers at a tax collector or license-plate agency.
Does a Florida trailer bill of sale need to be notarized?
Not required. Notarization was removed from the HSMV forms. FLHSMV recommends — but does not require — notarizing the bill of sale.
What to include on a Florida trailer bill of sale
- Buyer and seller names and addresses
- Year, make, and trailer type
- VIN or serial number
- Length, number of axles, and empty weight
- Price, date, and signatures
How to transfer a trailer in Florida
- 1Complete the bill of sale and title assignment.
Record the buyer, seller, price, and date. Both parties sign and date.
- 2Hand over the signed title.
Seller completes the transfer section of the Florida title; the buyer titles and registers at a tax collector or license-plate agency.
- 3File a notice of sale / release of liability.
The seller files Notice of Sale (HSMV 82050) — file to remove liability to remove liability.
- 4Register with the FLHSMV.
The buyer titles and registers the trailer, bringing Notice of Sale and/or Bill of Sale for a Motor Vehicle. Confirm current fees on the official page.
Official sources
- Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)
- Notice of Sale and/or Bill of Sale for a Motor Vehicle (HSMV 82050)
Requirements change and can vary by county. Confirm with the FLHSMV before you sign. Not legal advice.
Florida Trailer Bill of Sale — FAQ
Is a trailer bill of sale required in Florida?
A bill of sale is recommended in Florida. FLHSMV recommends a bill of sale and provides HSMV 82050, which also serves as a notice of sale.
Does a Florida trailer bill of sale need to be notarized?
No. Notarization was removed from the HSMV forms. FLHSMV recommends — but does not require — notarizing the bill of sale.
Do I need to title a trailer?
It depends on the trailer’s weight and your state. Heavier trailers usually require a title and registration; many small utility trailers only need registration. Check your state page.
What if my trailer has no VIN?
Homemade or older trailers may need a state inspection to be assigned a VIN before they can be titled. The bill of sale still documents the sale in the meantime.
Is a bill of sale proof of ownership?
Generally no. For titled property like a car or boat, the title is what proves ownership. A bill of sale proves that a sale happened and records the price, date, and terms — it supports the title transfer but does not replace it. For untitled property (furniture, equipment, electronics), the signed bill of sale is usually the main proof of ownership.