A Certificate of Title is not automatically issued to PTI trailers, unless there is a legal owner/lien holder or the owner requests that a title be issued. The department issues a Permanent Trailer Identification Card and maintains an electronic record of ownership.

What does PTI mean on a trailer license plate?

Chapter 14: Permanent Trailer Identification (PTI) - California DMV.

Do trailers need to be titled?

You may be wondering if a title is absolutely necessary for your trailer. After all, a trailer doesn't move anywhere under its own power. One might wonder whether it truly qualifies as a motor vehicle and thus, whether or not it actually needs a title. The short answer is yes, you need a title for your trailer.