Selling a boat? Every state does it differently

Alabama

Motorboats and sailboats are registered with ALEA through the county probate judge or license commissioner. Boats built after December 31, 2023 must also be titled (boats under 18 feet only if 75 hp or more); most older boats are not titled.

“To apply for a transfer certificate, the new vessel owner must file an application for a certificate of registration with ALEA or with a county probate judge or license commissioner.” alea.gov

What the state asks for:

• A bill of sale reflecting the transfer of the vessel to the new owner, and source
• The certificate of registration issued to the vessel’s immediate former owner, unless the state agency or the county with which the application is filed possesses the vessel’s most recent registration record in Alabama. source

Alabama boat offices on the map

Alaska

Alaska DMV titles and registers boats. Boats over 24 ft must be titled (unless USCG-documented); boats 24 ft or less can get a title if the owner wants one. A buyer files Form B1 online, by mail, or at a DMV office. A copy of the filed application works as registration for up to 60 days.

“All boats principally used in Alaska are required to be registered unless specifically exempted. All boats longer than 24 feet are required to be titled unless documented by the USCG. Boats that are 24 feet or less have the option of getting a title.” dmv.alaska.gov

What the state asks for:

• the boat title and registration from the previous state of ownership source
• a bill of sale from a boat dealer or the previous owner source
• BOAT TITLE AND REGISTRATION APPLICATION source

Alaska boat offices on the map

Arizona

Arizona does not title boats. Motorized watercraft are registered with Arizona Game and Fish, not ADOT MVD. The buyer has 15 days after the sale to apply to AZGFD to register the boat in their name. Bring the seller-signed bill of sale and Form 1532. The boat trailer is registered separately with MVD.

“Within fifteen days after such transfer, the person to whom such transfer is made shall make application to the department to have the motorized watercraft registered in the person's name by the department, for which the department shall charge a transfer fee as prescribed in rule by the commission.” azleg.gov

What the state asks for:

• A bill of sale with the name of buyer and seller, signature of seller, hull ID number, length, manufacturer, and purchase price. source
• A completed application form 1532 provided by the Department. source
• Proper registration fees, and transfer fee. source

Arizona boat offices on the map

Arkansas

Arkansas registers boats (the state lists no boat title) at any state revenue office. The buyer must apply within 30 days of purchase. Bring a bill of sale or the current registration, a HIN rubbing or photo, proof of county assessment, and proof that personal property tax is paid. No sales tax is charged on boat sales between individuals.

“The owner of a motorboat that requires registration must apply for the registration within 30 days of the date of purchase. Boat registrations may be applied for at any state revenue office.” dfa.arkansas.gov

What the state asks for:

• A bill of sale must contain a description of the boat including the hull identification number, year, make and horsepower, the amount of sale, be dated and signed by the buyer and seller. source
• Verification may be submitted as either a legible pencil rubbing or a clear printed photograph of the HIN. source
• Proof from your county assessor showing that the boat has been assessed or listed for assessment for the current year. source
• Proof that personal property taxes due by the previous October 10th have been paid. source
• Proof of liability insurance for all personal watercraft and motorboats powered by engines of more than 50 horsepower. source

Arkansas boat offices on the map

California

Register a boat at any DMV field office, or mail the application and documents to DMV in Sacramento.

“You can register your boat/vessel at any DMV field office , or mail your registration application and related documents to: Department of Motor Vehicles PO Box 942869 Sacramento, CA 94269-0001” dmv.ca.gov

What the state asks for:

• A completed Application for Vessel Certificate of Number (BOAT 101) (PDF) form. Proof of ownership, such as the original California Certificate of Ownership (title) or the out-of-state title (if it is currently registered in another state). source
• Bill(s) of sale (if you bought your boat/vessel from a private party instead of a dealer). source
• The Certificate of Ownership properly endorsed for transfer source

California boat offices on the map

Colorado

Colorado boats are registered with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, not the county DMV. The state lists registration only, not a boat title. Registrations are non-transferable, so a buyer applies for a new registration with a bill of sale. Apply by mail or in person at a CPW office. The dated bill of sale works as a temporary registration for 30 days.

“you may use your Bill of Sale as a temporary registration for 30 days. If purchasing a boat from a private party, have the seller provide you with a Bill of Sale to serve as your proof of ownership.” cpw.state.co.us

What the state asks for:

• A completed Boat Registration Application source
• A copy of proof of ownership source
• Both the seller and buyer's printed names and signatures source
• The boat make, model and year (if known) and source

Colorado boat offices on the map

Connecticut

The CT DMV registers boats, and titles boats from model year 2017 on (older boats are registration-only). A buyer must register in person, by appointment, at a DMV hub or branch office. Bring Form B-148, a bill of sale (H-31) and ID. Sales tax is paid at registration.

“Water vessels, such as boats, can only be registered in-person at a DMV hub or branch office.” portal.ct.gov

What the state asks for:

• Completed Connecticut vessel registration application (Form B-148). source
• A bill of sale (Form H-31) for the vessel. source
• For vessels with a model year of 2016 or older, you'll need the registration from the last owner if other than the current owner. source

Connecticut boat offices on the map

Delaware

Delaware boats are registered with DNREC Fish and Wildlife, not the DMV; the state lists registration only, not a boat title. For a boat already registered in Delaware, the buyer needs the seller's old registration card and a notarized bill of sale. The notary is not needed if the buyer and seller both come in person with photo ID. Apply by mail, at the Dover office, or through a registration agent.

“If the boat is currently registered in Delaware, the old registration card is required with a notarized bill of sale including a description of the boat. A notarized bill of sale is not needed if both buyer and seller appear in person with picture IDs.” dnrec.delaware.gov

What the state asks for:

• picture or pencil tracing/rubbing of the hull identification number is required. source
• If the boat is titled in another state the original title must be submitted and will be kept. source
• If the boat comes from a registering state then the registration is required with a notarized bill of sale. source
• VESSEL REGISTRATION APPLICATION source

Delaware boat offices on the map

District of Columbia

The District titles and registers boats through the MPD Harbor Master, not DC DMV. The seller fills in the Assignment of Title on the back of the DC title and gives it to the buyer. The buyer applies at Harbor Patrol (550 Water St SW). Changes of ownership can't be done online; call Harbor Patrol at (202) 727-4582.

“When the vessel is sold, traded, or transferred, the Assignment of Title section on the reverse side of the title is to be completed and given to the new owner.” mpdc.dc.gov

What the state asks for:

• Application for Boat Certificate of Title/Registration Number (PD 330) source
• as a casual sale, the title must be completed source

District of Columbia boat offices on the map

Florida

Motorized boats are titled and registered at a county tax collector or license plate agent office. A buyer of a new or used vessel has 30 days to title and register it.

“Applications for titles and registrations must be filed at a county tax collector or license plate agent office . Owners have the option of registering their vessel for either one year or two years. A purchaser of a new or used vessel has 30 days to title and register that vessel.” flhsmv.gov

What the state asks for:

• Used vessel currently titled in FL – Florida title accurately completed for transfer to purchaser. Used vessel currently titled out of state – Out-of-state title accurately completed for transfer to purchaser. Used vessel from a state that does not require title – Current registration from that state and a bill of sale from the current registrant. source

Florida boat offices on the map

Georgia

Boats are registered with Georgia DNR, not the county tag office. The seller reports the sale to DNR within 15 days and gives the buyer a detailed bill of sale; the buyer then registers in their own name.

“If you sell your boat, notify DNR within 15 days as described on this web site. Give the buyer a detailed bill of sale. The eTitle will transfer to the new owner after you report the sale and give the buyer the detailed bill of sale.” georgiawildlife.com

What the state asks for:

• Document 1 (required): Proof of Ownership Most often, this is a bill of sale showing sufficient information to identify the vessel, plus the seller’s and owner’s name. source
• Bills of sale or invoices should show buyer and seller and be signed by both. source

Georgia boat offices on the map

Hawaii

Boats are titled and registered by DLNR's Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR), not the county. A purchase or transfer must be done in person at a DOBOR office with the seller's properly endorsed Hawaii vessel title. The boat trailer is registered separately at the county motor vehicle office.

“Boaters may title, register, and transfer ownership of their vessel at any DOBOR District Office and at the DOBOR Administrative Office in Honolulu” dlnr.hawaii.gov

What the state asks for:

• For all other vessels, a properly endorsed Hawaii vessel title, out-of-state vessel title, or other applicable out-of-state document(s) must be provided to transfer ownership. source

Hawaii boat offices on the map

Idaho

Titles go through the county assessor motor vehicle office (ITD). Model-year 2000+ boats with a permanently attached motor or sail, and 2000+ boats over 12 ft, must be titled on transfer; older boats only if financed or already titled. Registration (annual sticker) is separate, through Idaho Parks and Recreation online or at a vendor or some county DMV offices.

“If a vessel was acquired at any time from a seller other than a dealer, the owner may apply for title at any county assessor motor vehicle office.” itd.idaho.gov

Idaho boat offices on the map

Illinois

Boats are titled and registered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, not the Secretary of State. The buyer must apply to IDNR within 15 days after purchase; there is no over-the-counter service, so it is done online or by mail.

“I purchased a boat from someone who had it titled/registered in Illinois. How do I transfer it into my name? Please refer to the link below to apply for a Transfer Renewal of the watercraft title/registration. If you need further assistance or have additional questions, please contact the call center at 866-716-6550. Watercraft title/registration is not available over-the-counter at any Natural Resources office. Thank you. Online Application System Regulations for Transfer Renewal: All watercraft other than non-powered watercraft operated on the waters within the jurisdiction of Illinois shall be registered. All registered watercraft over 21 ft. in length are required to be titled. State law requires that the purchaser of a watercraft shall complete and submit an application to the Department of Natural Resources for registration/titling within 15 days after purchase.” dnr.illinois.gov

What the state asks for:

• For previously registered or titled watercraft [within IL], the original title (if titled) and registration card must be surrendered to Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) For previously United Stated Coast Guard (USCG) documented watercraft, surrender a copy of the United States Coast Guard (USCG) documentation issued in your name. Bill of Sale/Purchase Agreement source

Illinois boat offices on the map

Indiana

Indiana residents must title and register watercraft with the BMV; apply for the title within 45 days of purchase, and register at any BMV branch. Non-motorized canoes, rowboats and paddleboats are exempt, but sailboats are not.

“Indiana residents are required to obtain an Indiana certificate of title for all watercraft (unless specifically exempt from registration ). You must apply for a certificate of title within 45 days after the date of purchase or an administrative penalty will be charged.” in.gov

Indiana boat offices on the map

Iowa

Boats are registered (and, if 17 ft or longer, titled) by the county recorder in the county where you live, not the county treasurer. After a private sale you can run the boat on the seller’s current registration for 30 days; after that it must be registered in your name. Sales tax is collected, or proof that it was paid is required.

“The initial transfer of your boat into your name must be processed with the county recorder in the county where you reside.” iowadnr.gov

What the state asks for:

• If your boat was titled, you will need the title from the last owner on the title, signed over to you. source
• You will also need a bill of sale, or statement from the seller that indicates how much you paid for your boat. source
• If your boat was registered but not titled, you will need the registration signed over from the last owner on the registration and a bill of sale. source

Iowa boat offices on the map

Kansas

Kansas does not title boats or motors. Motor and sail boats are registered with KDWP (not the county treasurer): online, at a state park, KDWP regional office or boat registration agent, or by mail to Pratt. New owners need a bill of sale and a photo or pencil tracing of the HIN.

“The State of Kansas does not, however, title watercraft nor does it register or title motors.” ksoutdoors.gov

Kansas boat offices on the map

Kentucky

Motorboats are titled and registered at the county clerk, in the county where you live or where the boat is principally operated. The seller signs the back of the Kentucky title in front of a notary; the buyer brings that title, photo ID and Form TC 96-184 to the clerk. Kentucky does not title outboard motors.

“the owner shall apply for title and registration to the county clerk of the county in which he resides” apps.legislature.ky.gov

What the state asks for:

• Properly assigned and completed Kentucky title source
• Properly completed TC-96-184 Form (Motorboat Transaction Record/ Application for Title and Registration) source
• Photo ID source

Kentucky boat offices on the map

Louisiana

Boats are registered with LDWF, not OMV: all motorized vessels/watercraft, including sailboats 12 feet or longer, used in Louisiana waters. See the LDWF office list.

“You must register with LDWF all motorized vessels/watercraft, including sailboats 12 feet or longer, used in Louisiana waters.” wlf.louisiana.gov

What the state asks for:

• Bill of Sale of Boat/Motor (PDF) that includes the registration number, Hull Identification Number, make and model year of the boat, and signatures of the seller and purchaser along with your application. source
• If previously titled or the title is held by a lien-holder, the title must be surrendered at the time of registration. source
• Bill of Sale including LA registration number, HIN, and signature(s) of seller(s) and purchaser(s) source

Louisiana boat offices on the map

Maine

Maine lists registration only for boats, not a title; motorboats get an IFW certificate of number (registration). A new owner registers in person at a recreational vehicle agent (usually the town office), after paying boat excise tax to the town where they live, and must show proof of sales tax. Registrations run Jan 1–Dec 31.

“New boat registrations must be completed in-person and require proof of sales tax.” maine.gov

Maine boat offices on the map

Maryland

Boats are titled and registered by Maryland DNR, not the MVA: mail the paperwork or bring it (by appointment) to a DNR service center. A boat bought in Maryland and used mostly here must be registered within 30 days of purchase.

“Title/Registration documents can be mailed to or presented in person (by appointment only) to one of the Maryland DNR Service Centers” dnr.maryland.gov

What the state asks for:

• original Maryland title (properly assigned - purchaser name, seller's signature and date, purchase price) source
• original certified/notarized bill of sale if purchaser's name, sale date or price is missing from assignment of title source

Maryland boat offices on the map

Massachusetts

Boats are titled and registered by the Massachusetts Environmental Police registration bureau (5 offices, or by mail), not the RMV. Boats 14 ft or longer with a motor need the seller's title signed over.

“State law requires that the title application must be made and the sales tax paid within 20 days of purchasing a boat.” mass.gov

What the state asks for:

• Bill of sale - name, address and signature of the seller must be on the bill of sale. source
• Proof of sales tax paid. source
• Pencil tracing or a digital picture of the hull ID number (serial number). source
• Completed Registration and Titling Application. source
• Title from the seller signed over to the new buyer. source

Massachusetts boat offices on the map

Michigan

A boat is registered by visiting a Secretary of State office.

“To register your watercraft: Visit a Secretary of State office with: your license or ID” michigan.gov

What the state asks for:

• Proof of ownership, including one or more of the following: The previous registration for the watercraft, with the seller's signature A bill of sale that includes the watercraft: Year and make HIN Buyer's name and address Seller's name and address Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) Watercraft title (if the watercraft is required to be titled) A surety bond (for watercraft valued at more than $2,500) Self-certification procedure (for watercraft valued at $2,500 or less) U.S. Coast Guard Certificate of Documentation source

Michigan boat offices on the map

Minnesota

Boat titles and registrations are transferred at any deputy registrar office (where you license your car) or by mail to the DNR. Watercraft over 16 ft are titled; apply for the new title within 15 days after delivery.

“Submit documents at your local deputy registrar office.” dnr.state.mn.us

What the state asks for:

• Minnesota Watercraft Title sign by the seller on the front of the title. Buyer will complete and sign the back of the title. source
• Bill of sale from an owner listing the year, make, Hull ID Number (HIN) of the watercraft, sellers printed name and signature. Universal registration form completed and signed. source
• If the Certificate of Title identifies lien(s), your application must include a lien release from the listed lien holder to transfer ownership. source

Minnesota boat offices on the map

Mississippi

Boats are registered with MDWFP, not the county tax collector: mail the application and documents to MDWFP headquarters in Jackson (or use the online portal) within 10 days of purchase. Boat titles are optional in Mississippi. The boat trailer is titled and registered separately at the county tax collector.

“The owner of any vessel required to be numbered has ten (10) days from the date of acquisition to register the boat.” mdwfp.com

What the state asks for:

• Submit proof of previous registration source
• Submit the original boat/motor title(s) (if applicable) source
• Submit a witnessed or notarized bill of sale source

Mississippi boat offices on the map

Missouri

Boats and outboard motors are titled and registered by DOR at any Missouri license office. All motorized boats and sailboats over 12 feet must be titled and registered; title within 60 days of purchase.

“All motorized boats or vessels and any sailboats longer than 12 feet must be titled and registered.” dor.mo.gov

What the state asks for:

• A signed Application for Missouri Boat/Vessel or Outboard Motor Title and Registration (Form 93); source
• A paid personal property tax receipt listing the boat or vessel, or a statement of non-assessment from the county (or city of St. Louis) Collector or Assessor for the previous year; source

Missouri boat offices on the map

Montana

Boats are titled and permanently registered at the county treasurer in the county where you live. Motorboats, personal watercraft, motorized pontoons and sailboats 12 ft or longer need a title. Apply within 40 days after the transfer.

“Boat owners must obtain a certificate of ownership (title) and certificate of number (registration) and pay all fees to the County Treasurer in the county where the owner resides.” fwp.mt.gov

Montana boat offices on the map

Nebraska

Motorboats made after November 1, 1972 must be titled, and both the title and the 3-year registration are handled at the County Treasurer's office (Game and Parks sets the registration rules).

“A Certificate of Title is required for all motorboats manufactured after November 1, 1972 unless the motorboat falls under the specific category of Motorboats Exempt from Titling.” dmv.nebraska.gov

What the state asks for:

• Proper evidence of ownership is one of the following: Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) Certificate of Title – properly assigned source

Nebraska boat offices on the map

Nevada

Boats are titled and registered by the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW), not the DMV. Bring the signed-off Nevada title to an NDOW office (a Nevada title transfer can also be done by mail). Call ahead in case an inspection is needed. No sales-tax proof is needed for a private-party sale. Boat trailers are registered at the DMV.

“Present the properly endorsed Nevada Certificate of Ownership (Title) to an office of the Department of Wildlife.” ndow.org

What the state asks for:

• The vessel title is signed off by the previous owner. source
• The new owner’s driver’s license. source
• Social Security number must be provided. source

Nevada boat offices on the map

New Hampshire

New Hampshire does not title boats. Register the boat at an authorized boat agent (usually your town clerk), through a DMV drop box, or by mail to the DMV in Concord. Bring a bill of sale signed by both buyer and seller, plus your driver's license.

“Registrations for privately-owned boats may be processed in person by utilizing our Drop Box Services, at authorized boat agents, or may be sent by mail to the Concord DMV” dmv.nh.gov

What the state asks for:

• For an initial registration of a vessel, proof of ownership shall include documentation containing both the authorized signature of the applicant and of the person or entity that sold the vessel to the applicant source
• Owner's valid, current Driver License. source
• The proper boat registration fees. source
• A bill of sale for a vessel must include the following information: Existing bow number, if any; source

New Hampshire boat offices on the map

New Jersey

Boats are titled and registered at an MVC motor vehicle agency, in person. Title the boat within 10 working days of purchase. Boats of about 12 ft or less and Coast Guard-documented boats get a registration but no title.

“Boats must be titled within 10 working days of purchase or are subject to a $25 penalty.” nj.gov

Coast Guard–documented boats: “If your boat is 12 feet or less or if it is documented by the US Coast Guard, you will not receive a title.” nj.gov

What the state asks for:

• Complete the Universal Title Application (Form OS/SS-UTA) and a Boat Registration Application Form (BA-51) source
• Provide properly assigned Manufacturers Certificate of Ownership (MCO), title, or if coming from a state that does not title: proof of ownership from seller (their registration) along with a notarized bill of sale source
• If the boat is financed, provide the name and address of the lien holder. source

New Jersey boat offices on the map

New Mexico

Boats are titled and registered by the MVD, not State Parks. Every motorboat (including sailboats) must be registered, and a motorboat 10 feet or longer must also be titled. A used boat needs a HIN inspection and the signed title or a bill of sale with the price.

“Every boat operating on the waters of New Mexico and owned by a New Mexico resident must be titled.” mvd.newmexico.gov

What the state asks for:

• The current outstanding Certificate of Title is the primary document when transferring ownership of a used vessel. source
• Assignment of Title completed or Bill of Sale source
• A Certified VIN Inspector, certified law enforcement officer or New Mexico Park Ranger must conduct inspection of the vessel. source
• Application for Vessel Title and Registration source

New Mexico boat offices on the map

New York

Boats without a motor do not need to be registered in New York. Any boat with a motor (electric or fuel-driven) must be registered, no matter the size of the boat or the motor.

“In New York, boats (watercraft) without a motor do not need to be registered. If you use a motor (electric or fuel-driven), regardless of the size of your boat or the motor, you must register your boat.” dmv.ny.gov

What the state asks for:

• An acceptable bill of sale includes all of this information the year and make of the vehicle, boat, snowmobile, or ATV vehicle identification number (VIN) or the hull identification number (HIN) date of the sale purchase price names and signatures of the buyer and the seller source

New York boat offices on the map

North Carolina

Boats are registered and titled with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, not NCDMV: online, by mail, or at a Wildlife Service Agent, within 15 days of the sale. All motorized boats (even electric trolling motors) and sailboats over 14 feet must be registered; boats 14 feet or longer and jet skis must also be titled.

“All motorized vessels used on public waters including vessels which use an electric trolling motor must be registered.” ncwildlife.gov

What the state asks for:

• Every new or transfer vessel registration and title request must be submitted with a completed and signed VL-1 Application form . source
• The original North Carolina title properly assigned with the seller’s signature notarized in the transfer section. source
• Transferring a Non-Titled Vessel From an Individual Notarized bill of sale. source

North Carolina boat offices on the map

North Dakota

North Dakota doesn't title boats. Motorized watercraft are registered with ND Game and Fish, not NDDOT, and a buyer (dealer or private sale) completes the registration online within 15 days. You'll need the seller's completed title or registration with a signed, detailed bill of sale. A person-to-person sale owes no sales tax. Boat trailers aren't titled.

“North Dakota is a registration state and does not issue titles for any watercraft, motor or trailer.” gf.nd.gov

What the state asks for:

• Proof of a completed title or registration with signed detailed bill of sale is required for casual sales. source

North Dakota boat offices on the map

Ohio

Two stops. First, transfer the boat's title at any county Clerk of Courts title office; the seller signs the back of the title in front of a notary. Then take the seller's signed-over registration to an ODNR boat registration agent. A title is required for boats 14 ft and longer, for outboards of 10 hp or more, and for PWCs. Canoes and kayaks need no title. You can use a titled boat for up to 60 days while the transfer is in progress if you carry a temporary registration.

“Like an auto title, boat titles are obtained from any county title office.” dam.assets.ohio.gov

What the state asks for:

• If a titled boat is sold by an individual (a casual sale), the seller must complete the transfer section on the back of the title in the presence of a notary public before presenting it to the buyer. source
• Before boating, the new owner of a used boat must take the previous registration form with the transfer section completed by the seller to any watercraft registration agent, even if the registration has not expired. source

Ohio boat offices on the map

Oklahoma

Boats are titled, registered and taxed through Service Oklahoma or a Licensed Operator within 30 days of ownership. Boats and outboard motors over 10 hp are titled and registered separately. On a sale, the seller must give a notarized HIN/serial confirmation. Registrations expire at the end of June.

“Boats that are used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on Oklahoma waters are required to be titled, registered, and taxed within 30 days of ownership.” oklahoma.gov

What the state asks for:

• BM-26 Form: Application for Certificate of Title for a Boat or Outboard Motor source
• BM-10 Form: Boat or Outboard Motor Serial Number Confirmation source
• Properly assigned and notarized Oklahoma certificate of title source

Oklahoma boat offices on the map

Oregon

Boats are titled and registered by the Oregon State Marine Board, not DMV. Every motorboat, of any length, and every sailboat 12 ft or longer must be titled and registered. The buyer completes the 'New Owner' section of the seller's signed Oregon title and sends it with the fees to the Marine Board (or a registration agent) within 10 days. A boat trailer goes to DMV when the boat and trailer weigh more than 1,800 lb combined.

“All motorboats, regardless of length, must be titled and registered in Oregon.” oregon.gov

What the state asks for:

• Obtain the original "Oregon Certificate of Title" from the seller with the release of interest line(s) signed and dated by all owners listed source
• Complete the "New Owner" section source
• Submit documents to the Marine Board with the required fees source

Oregon boat offices on the map

Pennsylvania

PennDOT doesn't handle boats; registration and titles come only from the PA Fish and Boat Commission. Every powered boat must be registered. A title is required for inboards and PWCs from model year 1997 on, for outboard boats 14 ft and longer from model year 1997 on, and for any boat already titled. Take the REV-336 application, the signed title or registration, and the payment to a PFBC office or an issuing agent, and you'll get a 60-day temporary registration.

“Boats are required to be titled (whether purchased, transferred or sold) when they are:” pa.gov

What the state asks for:

• If the boat was titled, a properly signed title is required. source
• Registration card, signed by last registered owner. source
• Bill of sale, signed by the last registered owner. source
• Application for Pennsylvania Boat Registration and/or Boat Title (REV-336) source

Pennsylvania boat offices on the map

Rhode Island

Boats are titled and registered by RI DEM's Office of Boat Registration & Licensing in Providence, not by the DMV. The boat trailer still goes to the DMV. All motorized boats must be registered, along with any boat over 12 ft. Boats over 14 ft must be titled. On a used boat, the seller's signature must be notarized on the bill of sale and on the title. File separate boat and outboard-motor applications, and include a pencil tracing of the HIN.

“Please remember Rhode Island is a title state.” dem.ri.gov

What the state asks for:

• NOTARIZED bill of sale or gift statement from seller(s) source
• Title signed and notarized from bonafide seller or most current registration certificate (in seller's name) if the boat is coming from a non-title state. source
• Boat Registration Application & fee source
• Outboard Motor Registration Application & fee source
• Application for Initial Vessel Certificate of Title source
• Pencil tracing of Hull identification number (HIN); to conform to USCG requirements for verification of hull numbers source

Rhode Island boat offices on the map

South Carolina

Boats are titled and registered with SCDNR, not SCDMV. All watercraft must be titled and registered except documented vessels, wind surfers and human-powered craft; outboard motors under 5 hp need no title.

“All watercraft are required to be registered and titled: except Documented Vessels, Wind surfers, Watercraft propelled only by human power, paddles or similar devices.” dnr.sc.gov

What the state asks for:

• Paid property tax receipt in your name for the coming year from your county of residence. source
• Watercraft/Outboard Motor Application (completed and signed) source
• Original Title(s) (completed and signed) source

South Carolina boat offices on the map

South Dakota

Boats are titled and registered at your county treasurer's office, the same office used for cars. Boats over 12 feet and motorboats of any length need a title. Apply within 45 days of purchase.

“Boat owners are required to apply for a title within 45 days of purchase.” dor.sd.gov

What the state asks for:

• Application for Motor Vehicle and Boat Title & Registration source
• Grab these three things from the individual or company who is selling you the boat: Title Bill of Sale source

South Dakota boat offices on the map

Tennessee

Tennessee does not title boats. Take the bill of sale to your county clerk, who collects sales tax and certifies the Application for Boat Certificate of Number. Then finish the registration with TWRA online or at a TWRA regional office; the certified application works as a 60-day temporary registration.

“Boats are not titled in Tennessee.” tn.gov

Coast Guard–documented boats: “Tennessee law requires that all mechanically powered vessels (including federally documented recreational vessels) and all sailboats that are principally used in Tennessee must be registered.” tn.gov

What the state asks for:

• Complete Bill of Sale that includes: source
• Full description of the vessel including - year, make, model, and HIN source
• Name, Address, telephone number, and signature of both buyer and seller. source

Tennessee boat offices on the map

Texas

Boats and outboard motors are titled and registered through TPWD. File at TPWD Headquarters in Austin, a TPWD Law Enforcement field office, or a participating county tax office within 45 days.

“Submit application(s), assigned title(s), supporting documents, required fees and tax within 45 days to TPWD Headquarters in Austin , a TPWD Law Enforcement field office or a participating County Tax Assessor-Collector office .” tpwd.texas.gov

What the state asks for:

• Obtain the original title properly assigned by the seller (seller must sign, date and list the name and address of the purchaser) along with a bill of sale. source
• Complete the tax affidavit portion of the Vessel/Boat Application form PWD 143 source

Texas boat offices on the map

Utah

Boats are titled and registered at the Utah DMV. Every 1985 or newer watercraft operated in Utah waters must be titled (exceptions include documented vessels and small inflatables), and outboard motors over 25 hp of 1985 or newer must be titled.

“Every 1985 or newer watercraft operated in Utah waters must be titled except:” dmv.utah.gov

What the state asks for:

• TC-656V, Vessel Application for Utah Title and Registration. source

Utah boat offices on the map

Vermont

Motorboats are registered, and boats 16 feet or longer are titled, by the Vermont DMV. Bring the previous title signed by all owners (or the last registration if the boat was never titled) and a bill of sale. The first Vermont registration owes sales tax unless an exemption applies.

“Vermont titles vessels with a length of 16 ft. or longer (including shuttlecraft).” dmv.vermont.gov

What the state asks for:

• the original (previous) certificate of title must be signed by all parties listed as owners source
• all liens must be released source
• All bills of sale must include the make, year, hull identification number, purchase price, date, and signature of the seller. source
• original or certified copy of last registration certificate and all bills of sale thereafter source

Vermont boat offices on the map

Virginia

Boats are titled and registered by the Department of Wildlife Resources, not DMV. Any boat with a motor must be titled when it is registered. Apply online at GoOutdoorsVirginia, by mail, or walk in at DWR headquarters in Henrico; the original title must be mailed or brought in.

“You can submit your applications online, through the mail, or walk-in at our Henrico location only.” dwr.virginia.gov

What the state asks for:

• If titled in Virginia: the original Certificate of Title with assignment of title completed/signed by titled owner/owners source
• If registered in Virginia but never titled: a dated bill of sale signed by the registered owner/owners. source
• If registered in another state: a copy of the out-of-state registration and a bill of sale signed by the registered owner/owners. source

Virginia boat offices on the map

Washington

Boats are titled and registered by DOL at vehicle (and boat) licensing offices or by mail; a buyer must transfer within 15 days. Exempt: human-powered boats, and boats under 16 feet with 10 hp or less used only on non-federal waters.

“A person acquiring a vessel from a dealer or a vessel already validly registered under this chapter shall, within fifteen days of the acquisition or purchase of the vessel, apply to the department, county auditor or other agent, or subagent appointed by the director for transfer of the vessel registration” app.leg.wa.gov

What the state asks for:

• You and the seller need to complete the Vehicle/Vessel Bill of Sale form. source
• If your boat is more than 35 feet long and more than 40 years old, you must present proof of marine insurance when you transfer the title into your name or register it for the first time. source

Washington boat offices on the map

West Virginia

Motorboats are titled and registered by the WV DMV. For a boat already titled in WV, bring the title assigned to you; a notarized bill of sale is also needed if the price is under half of book value. Sales tax is due on the title application. Registrations run on a 3-year cycle and cannot be transferred.

“all motorboats in WV must be titled.” dmv.wv.gov

What the state asks for:

• WV title properly assigned to new owner source
• Notarized bill of sale for motorboat if purchase price is less than 50% of book value source
• Properly assigned out-of-state title source

West Virginia boat offices on the map

Wisconsin

Boats are registered with the Wisconsin DNR, not DMV, and boats 16 feet or longer are titled. Apply online through GoWILD or by mail within 10 days of purchase; for a titled boat, mail in the original title the seller signed.

“Boats 16 feet in length or greater previously registered in Wisconsin are titled.” dnr.wisconsin.gov

What the state asks for:

• Boat Registration and Titling Application (Form 9400-193) source
• you will need to provide the information from the previous owner source
• Make sure the seller has the original certificate of title (not a photocopy) source

Wisconsin boat offices on the map

Wyoming

Two stops. First title the boat at your county clerk, the same office that titles cars; proof of sales tax is required. Then register it with Wyoming Game and Fish at any Game and Fish office or by mail. A notarized bill of sale lets you operate for up to 30 days.

“including snowmobiles and watercraft, shall apply for a certificate of title at the office of a county clerk.” wyoleg.gov

What the state asks for:

• Completed Title Application-VIN/HIN Inspection Form source
• Bill of Sale or Dealer Purchase Agreement and certification of any liens or encumbrances on the vehicle source
• Proof Sales Tax has been Paid source

Wyoming boat offices on the map