Transferring Boat Ownership: Getting The Title In Your Name

If you're buying a boat, you'll need to get the boat title transferred from the seller's name to your name. This is a fairly straightforward process, but it's important to ensure that it's done correctly to avoid disputes over the ownership of the boat. To do this, you'll need to prove ownership by obtaining a Bill of Sale from the seller, which acts as a receipt and provides a detailed description of the boat. This document will then need to be taken to the relevant authority in your state, which could be the Department of Motor Vehicles or the Game and Wildlife Services. Once the sale is complete, you'll need to apply for a legal title, and you may also need to pay sales tax to the state if you're buying from a private seller.

Proving ownership: A bill of sale is required to prove ownership of the boat

A bill of sale is a document that records the transfer of ownership of an item from a seller to a buyer. In the case of buying a boat, a bill of sale is essential to prove ownership and includes important warranties. It is a more detailed version of a receipt, which only includes the purchase price, a brief description, and the date of sale. A boat bill of sale includes the names and addresses of the buyer and seller, a detailed description of the boat, including the make, model, year, colour, condition, and hull identification number (HIN), as well as information on any warranties made by the seller. Signatures from both parties are also required, and in some states, the signature of a notary.

A boat bill of sale is also known as a boat purchase agreement and is used to detail the terms of the transaction between the private seller and buyer. It is a contract that specifies the terms of the sale, including the names of the buyer and seller, the boat identification, and price considerations. It is a legal document that confirms the purchase of the boat and can be used to register the boat with the appropriate authorities.

The bill of sale can also provide dispute management and resolution procedures, as it documents the details of the sale and formalises the transfer of ownership. It is important to be accurate and specific when completing a bill of sale to ensure legal validity and to facilitate the transfer of ownership. Inaccurate or incomplete information can void the agreement and result in legal issues.

To obtain a bill of sale, the seller will usually prepare it, but if they do not, it is possible to request one or use a generic template from sources such as the U.S. Coast Guard or eForms. An attorney can also help prepare a bill of sale. Once the sale is complete, the buyer must apply for legal title with the relevant state agency, which may be the department of motor vehicles (DMV) or the game and wildlife agency, depending on the state.

State requirements: Check the specific requirements of your state for registering a boat

State requirements vary, so it is important to check the specific requirements of your state for registering a boat. In general, registering a boat is required by law, much like registering a car, and the rules and guidelines for this process depend on where the vessel will regularly operate long-term.

In most states, you can register a boat with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). However, in some cases, it may be with a different department, such as the Department of Fish and Game, the Department of Licensing, or the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). It is worth noting that a boat can be officially registered in only one state.

The registration requirements for boats differ by state. Generally, boats with gasoline, diesel, or electric motors, including trolling motors, must be registered. Personal Watercraft (PWCs) are considered motorized crafts and must be registered in most states. For sailboats, the requirements vary. While some states require all sailboats to be registered, others have size requirements, such as eight feet, above which registration is mandatory. The registration requirements for kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, rowboats, and other human-powered craft also vary by state, but most of them do not need to be registered.

Each state has its own requirements for forms and fees. Typically, you will need to complete a registration form, either online, through the mail, or in person, and provide proof of ownership, such as a title and/or bill of sale. Additionally, you will need to pay a registration fee, which varies depending on the state and the size of the vessel.

It is important to be mindful of the expiration date and apply for renewal when necessary. The length of validity for boat registration varies by state and can range from one to three years. Your boat registration authority should automatically send you a renewal form and a bill when it is time for renewal.

Title transfer: The seller must fill out the transfer section on the title and sign it

The seller must fill out the transfer section on the back of the boat title and sign it. This is a crucial step in transferring ownership of the boat to the buyer. The transfer section will require the buyer's name, address, and other relevant details. It is important to ensure that all the information provided is accurate and legible, preferably written in blue or black ink. In some states, the seller's signature on the title must be notarized, so it is essential to check the specific requirements of your state. If there is a space for a notary seal on the title, it is mandatory to have the signature notarized.

The seller should also provide a bill of sale, which serves as a record of the sale and the amount the boat was sold for. While some states may not require a bill of sale, it is still a recommended practice to have a written document recording the transaction. The bill of sale should include the names and addresses of both the buyer and seller, a detailed description of the boat (including make, model, year, colour, condition, and hull identification number), information on any additional items sold with the boat (such as a trailer or life jackets), and any warranties provided by the seller. Both the buyer's and seller's signatures on the bill of sale should be notarized to ensure the document holds up in court if any disputes arise later.

Once the seller has completed the transfer section on the title and signed it, they should give the title to the buyer, who will then be responsible for taking it to the relevant state agency (such as the Department of Motor Vehicles or the Game and Wildlife Agency) to apply for a new title. It is advisable for the seller to make a photocopy of the title for their records before handing it over to the buyer. The seller may also choose to accompany the buyer to the title office to ensure a smooth transfer of ownership and address any potential issues or questions regarding the title or record of ownership.

Application: Fill out an application form for a title at the relevant government agency

To put a boat title in your name, you'll need to complete an application form for a title at the relevant government agency. This process can vary depending on your location, but here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

Step 1: Identify the Relevant Agency

First, you need to determine which agency handles boat registration and titling in your state. In some states, it might be the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), while in others, it could be the Game and Wildlife Agency or another department. Check your state's website or give them a call to be sure.

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

Before filling out the application form, make sure you have all the necessary documents. These may include:

• Proof of ownership: This could be the original title, signed by the previous owner, along with a signed bill of sale.
• Bill of sale: This document provides a record of the sale, including the amount you paid for the boat. Some states require a notarized bill of sale as proof of purchase.
• Release of lien: If there was a lien on the title (e.g., due to financing), you'll need documentation showing that the lien has been released by the finance company.
• Previous ownership documents: In some cases, you may need to obtain releases from all previous owners of the boat.
• Boat specifications and history: Be prepared to provide detailed information about the boat, such as make, model, year, colour, condition, hull identification number (HIN), and any additional items included in the sale (e.g., trailer, life jackets, etc.).

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Now, you can start filling out the application form. You can usually find the necessary forms on your state's website or by visiting the relevant agency in person. Here's what you need to do:

• Provide your personal information: Fill in your name, address, and other contact details as required by the form.
• Include boat information: Ensure that all information about the boat, such as its specifications and previous title information, matches the original title and bill of sale exactly.
• Sign the form: Most application forms will require your signature. Some states may also require notarization of your signature, so be sure to check the requirements for your state.
• Pay the fees: There are typically fees associated with transferring a boat title. These may include taxes and processing fees. Check with your local agency to find out the exact amount and accepted payment methods.

Step 4: Submit the Application

Once you've completed the application form and gathered all the necessary documents, it's time to submit your application. You can usually submit the application by mail or in person at the relevant agency's office. Be sure to make copies of all your documents for your records before submitting them.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

After submitting your application, you'll need to wait for it to be processed. The time it takes can vary depending on your state, but some states may provide temporary documentation that allows you to use your boat while you wait for the official title.

Step 6: Receive Your New Title

Finally, once your application has been approved and processed, you'll receive your new boat title! This may be sent to you by mail or provided immediately after submitting your application, depending on your state's procedures. With your new title in hand, you can now legally operate your boat.

Fees: Pay any necessary fees for transferring the title

Fees are an important part of the process of transferring a boat title. The specific fees you'll need to pay will depend on the state where you're registering the boat. Each state has its own requirements and fees, so it's a good idea to check with your state's boat titling office to find out the exact costs. Some states, for example, charge a flat fee for transferring a boat title, while others base the fee on the value of the boat. In California, for instance, the transfer fee varies based on the boat's value.

In addition to transfer fees, you may also be responsible for paying sales tax on your purchase. Again, this can vary by state, with some states capping the sales tax amount and others not assessing taxes on casual boat sales between private individuals. Be sure to ask about any applicable taxes when you inquire about the transfer fees.

It's important to note that you may also need to pay fees for other aspects of the boat registration process. For example, if you need to obtain a new registration for your boat, there will likely be a separate fee for that. And if you need to register a trailer for your boat separately, you'll need to pay a fee for that as well.

In some cases, you may also need to pay for additional documentation, such as a bill of sale or a certificate of title. These documents may be required by your state in order to complete the transfer process.

To make the process smoother, it's recommended that you call ahead to the relevant state agency to find out all the fees you'll need to pay and the accepted payment methods. This way, you can be prepared with the correct payment methods and amounts when you go to finalize the transfer.

Frequently asked questions