You can fill out Colorado DR 2697 online using the FormsPal free PDF editor. No software download is needed. The editor opens directly in your browser. Follow the steps below to get started:
Step 1: Click the orange "Get Form" button at the top of this page. The FormsPal PDF editor will open the DR 2697 form immediately.
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When filling out the DR 2697, focus on these key areas:
1. The first section of the form covers the trailer and equipment checklist. The inspector reviews each item on the list and marks it as present and working. The trailer owner fills in the identifying information, including the trailer type and the VIN assigned by the inspector.
2. The second section captures the inspector's certification. Fill in the Inspector Signature field, any Additional Comments or Explanations about the trailer's condition, and the Date of inspection. Review all three fields carefully before continuing.
The Date and Inspector Signature fields are the most important fields on the form. Both must be accurate and legible for the DMV to accept the certification.
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Frequently asked questions about Colorado Form DR 2697
What is Colorado Form DR 2697 used for?
Colorado Form DR 2697 is the Certification of Equipment Compliance for Homemade and In Lieu of Bond Trailers. The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles requires it to verify that a homemade or kit trailer has the safety equipment needed for highway use. The form must be signed by a P.O.S.T. Certified VIN Inspector before the owner can register the trailer.
Who must complete Colorado Form DR 2697?
Any owner registering a homemade, kit, or uninspected trailer in Colorado must complete this form. This applies to trailers built from scratch, assembled from a kit, or purchased from another state that does not issue titles. Owners of trailers weighing 2,000 pounds or less who lack standard ownership documents must also use the In Lieu of Bond process covered by this certification.
What equipment does the inspector check on the DR 2697?
The certified VIN inspector checks that the trailer has functioning tail lamps, stop lamps, safety chains, and rear reflectors. If the trailer's gross weight requires brakes under Colorado law, those must also be operational. The tires must be in proper condition with no excessive wear. Each item on the checklist must pass before the inspector certifies the form.
What other documents do I need with DR 2697?
Along with the completed certification, you need the DR 2704 Certified VIN Inspection form, the Colorado Roadworthy Trailer Checklist signed by the inspector, and proof of ownership such as a bill of sale, out-of-state registration, or statement of assembly. You also need to pay the $20.00 VIN inspection fee at the time of the inspection.
Can I fill out Colorado DR 2697 online?
Yes. FormsPal lets you open and review the DR 2697 online for free. You can type into the form fields, add your information, and download or print the completed PDF document. No software installation is required.
How long does it take to register a homemade trailer in Colorado?
The time to complete the registration process depends on scheduling the VIN inspection and the county processing time. Scheduling a P.O.S.T. Certified VIN Inspector can take a few days to a couple of weeks depending on availability in your county. Once you submit all documents to the county motor vehicle office, processing typically takes a few business days to three weeks. Submitting a complete and accurate application with all required forms reduces delays significantly.
What happens if my trailer fails the equipment inspection?
If the P.O.S.T. Certified VIN Inspector finds that required equipment is missing or not functioning, the inspector will not sign Form DR 2697. You must repair or install the missing equipment before requesting a new inspection. There is no penalty for failing the first inspection, but you will need to pay the $20.00 VIN inspection fee again when you schedule the follow-up appointment. The inspector will recheck only the items that were not in compliance during the first visit.
Where can I find a P.O.S.T. Certified VIN Inspector in Colorado?
P.O.S.T. Certified VIN Inspectors in Colorado include local law enforcement officers and licensed auto dealers with the appropriate certification. Contact your county motor vehicle office or local sheriff's department to ask about VIN inspection services in your area. Some county motor vehicle offices maintain a list of certified inspectors available to the public. The Colorado Department of Revenue Division of Motor Vehicles can also direct you to inspection resources in your county.
For other Colorado motor vehicle forms, see Colorado DR 2401 (Motor Vehicle Title and Registration) and Colorado DR 2489a (Motor Vehicle Gift Transfer Affidavit). You may also need a Trailer Inspection Form for general trailer documentation.