A boat bill of sale template is essential for registering the boat with your local DMV or boating authority. Whether the boat is motorized or not, most states require a bill of sale for registration and legal protection.

Notary Public: A certified official who can witness and validate the signatures of both parties involved in the boat transaction.

Boat Bill of Sale Forms by State

- Alabama Boat Bill of Sale

How to Sell a Boat – Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1 – List Inclusions in the Sale

Include all items being sold with the boat, such as the outboard motor, trailer, life jackets, electronics, and other gear. These details can impact the sale price and should be clearly noted in the bill of sale.

Step 2 – Determine the Boat’s Market Value

Look up the boat’s make, model, and year on listing platforms or consult a marine appraiser to estimate its fair market value.

Step 3 – Advertise the Boat for Sale

Use a Broker: For boats valued over $40,000, hiring a licensed broker at a marina can help you find buyers faster.
Sell By Owner: For lower-value boats, you may choose to list and negotiate directly with buyers.

Top Websites to Sell Your Boat

Step 4 – Show the Boat to Potential Buyers

Make the boat easily accessible for inspection. Ideally, it should be docked at a marina. If that’s not possible, display it on land in a visible and presentable condition.

Step 5 – Negotiate and Finalize Terms

Agree on a final price and terms. Both parties should review the bill of sale form carefully before signing.

Step 6 – Exchange Payment and Documents

At the time of sale, the buyer pays the agreed amount. The seller provides the signed bill of sale, title, and any applicable registration documents.

Step 7 – Register the Boat

After the sale is complete, the buyer must register the boat with the state’s boating authority to officially complete the transfer of ownership.

Signatures and Payment Terms

The sale is legally binding once the boat bill of sale form is signed by both the buyer and the seller. However, it is highly recommended that the seller only signs the document after receiving full payment to avoid disputes.

U.S. Coast Guard Boat Documentation

If your boat qualifies, you may also register it with the U.S. Coast Guard. Visit the official site for more information:

U.S. Coast Guard Boating Website

Sample Boat Bill of Sale PDF

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a bill of sale to sell a boat?

Yes. A boat bill of sale is required in most states to legally transfer ownership and register the vessel in the buyer’s name. It protects both the buyer and seller.

Does a boat bill of sale need to be notarized?

Some states require notarization, while others do not. It’s best to check with your local DMV or boating authority. Even if not required, notarization adds legal protection to the transaction.

Can I write my own bill of sale for a boat?

Yes. You can create your own bill of sale as long as it includes essential details such as buyer and seller information, boat description, price, date of sale, and signatures. Using a template ensures all legal requirements are met.

What information should be included in a boat bill of sale?

The form should include the make, model, year, hull ID number (HIN), sale price, date of sale, and the names, addresses, and signatures of both the buyer and seller. If applicable, include trailer or motor details.

How do I register a boat after purchase?

Take the completed and signed bill of sale to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or boating agency. You’ll typically need to submit the title, bill of sale, registration fees, and identification.

Can I sell a boat without a title?

In most states, a title is required to sell a boat. If the title is missing, contact your local boating authority to apply for a replacement before completing the sale.

Boat Bill of Sale Template