Minnesota trailer — quick answer
In Minnesota, a trailer bill of sale is recommended and notarization of the title transfer is not required. Titling and registration are handled by the Minnesota DVS.
Is a trailer bill of sale required in Minnesota?
Recommended. Ownership transfers on the title; a bill of sale is a useful sale record.
Seller completes the title assignment; the buyer titles and registers through DVS or a deputy registrar.
Does a Minnesota trailer bill of sale need to be notarized?
Not required. A standard private transfer does not require notarization (lien releases can be an exception).
What to include on a Minnesota 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 Minnesota
- 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 title assignment; the buyer titles and registers through DVS or a deputy registrar.
- 3Register with the Minnesota DVS.
The buyer titles and registers the trailer. Confirm current fees on the official page.
Official sources
Requirements change and can vary by county. Confirm with the Minnesota DVS before you sign. Not legal advice.
Minnesota Trailer Bill of Sale — FAQ
Is a trailer bill of sale required in Minnesota?
A bill of sale is recommended in Minnesota. Ownership transfers on the title; a bill of sale is a useful sale record.
Does a Minnesota trailer bill of sale need to be notarized?
No. A standard private transfer does not require notarization (lien releases can be an exception).
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.