To operate a trailer legally on the roads in Los Angeles, California, there are several requirements and regulations that need to be followed. Here are the key points:

1. Registration and Title:

• All trailers must be registered with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

• You need to have a valid title for the trailer.

2. License Plates:

• Trailers must display a valid license plate issued by the DMV.

3. Lighting Requirements:

• Trailers must be equipped with proper lighting, including taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and reflectors. These lights must be in working order and meet the specifications set by the California Vehicle Code.

4. Brakes:

• Trailers with a gross weight of 3,000 pounds or more must have brakes on all wheels. The braking system must be capable of stopping the trailer independently of the towing vehicle.

5. Safety Chains:

• Safety chains are required to ensure the trailer remains attached to the towing vehicle in case the hitch fails. The chains must be strong enough to control the trailer.

6. Hitch and Coupling:

• The hitch and coupling device must be designed and installed to provide a secure connection between the trailer and the towing vehicle. It should be appropriate for the weight and type of trailer being towed.

7. Load Securement:

• The load on the trailer must be properly secured to prevent shifting or falling. This includes using straps, ropes, or other securement devices.

8. Reflectors and Markings:

• Trailers must have red reflectors at the rear and white or amber reflectors on the sides. They must also have appropriate markings if they are over a certain length or width.

9. Tire Requirements:

• Tires on the trailer must be in good condition with sufficient tread depth. They should be properly inflated and appropriate for the load being carried.

10. Weight Limits:

• The trailer must not exceed the weight limits set by the California Vehicle Code. This includes both the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and the gross axle weight rating (GAWR).

11. Dimensions:

• Trailers must comply with state regulations regarding length, width, and height. Oversized trailers may require special permits.

12. Insurance:

• While not always required for the trailer itself, the towing vehicle must have appropriate insurance coverage. It is also advisable to check with your insurance provider regarding coverage for the trailer.

13. Inspection:

• While regular inspections are not always mandated, it is advisable to regularly inspect the trailer for safety and maintenance issues.

For specific and up-to-date requirements, it is always a good idea to check with the California DMV or local law enforcement agencies.

REGISTRATION AND TITLE GUIDE

Foreign and Gray Market Vehicles

A foreign or gray market vehicle is a vehicle manufactured for sale in a country other than the United States that may not meet U.S. safety and/or environmental standards. These vehicles are not imported to the United States through the manufacturer’s U.S. distribution system. Once in the United States, these vehicles must be brought into compliance, exported back out, or destroyed.

All of the following documents are required to register and title a gray market vehicle:

• The foreign Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin, Manufacturer's Statement of Origin or outstanding Certificate of Title; or

  A statement signed by the manufacturer indicating an MSO/MCO was never issued; or

  A statement from the manufacturer indicating to whom they assigned their interest in the vehicle; and

  Bills of sale to establish a complete chain of ownership

  
  

• A completed Vehicle Inspection Certificate (Form VP-15)

• U.S. Department of Transportation Form HS-7

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Form 3520-21

• Odometer Disclosure Statement for vehicles 9 years old or newer if not on the MSO/MCO or title

• Statement of Facts (Form VP-22) if there is no Manufacturer's Certificate/Statement of Origin or outstanding Certificate of Title

• Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Custom and Border Protection CBP Form 7501.

  
  

The Nevada Certificate of Title will be branded “Non-US Vehicle” to provide notice to future owners that the vehicle was a foreign or gray market vehicle.

For more information, you may reference the National Automobile Dealers Association (N.A.D.A.) Title and Registration Text Book, PO Box 7800, Costa Mesa, CA 92628, phone number 800-966-6232.

Vehicles that are sold in the United States and designated for importation out of the United States cannot be titled in Nevada.

The above content is selected from page 86 of the REGISTRATION AND TITLE GUIDE. If you need to view the full document, click here to download.