Updated May 31, 2022
A Utah boat bill of sale is a document that demonstrates that a vessel has been legally sold in the State of Utah. This document will provide information about the buyer and the seller, a description of the boat, and the terms of the transfer of ownership. A bill of sale can, with other documents, provide proof of ownership, and is useful for tax purposes.
Signing Requirements – Only the seller is required to sign the bill of sale, and it need not be notarized.
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Registering a Boat
Almost all boats purchased by Utah residents must be registered with the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in order to operate in Utah waters. (There are exceptions for boats owned by those visiting the state for fewer than sixty (60) days, and for vessels without motors, like sailboats.) For purchases of boats made through dealerships, the dealer will typically complete the necessary registration paperwork on the buyer’s behalf. But for transactions between private parties, the buyer will need to take affirmative steps to register the vessel. The buyer should obtain the new registration within sixty (60) days. Registration is good for one (1) year and may be renewed online.
Where to Register
Registration may be completed at a local Utah DMV Office.
Required Documents
- A completed Vessel Application For Utah Title (Form TC-656V)
- Proof of payment of the age-based uniform fee, such as a tax certificate from the assessor of the county where the buyer resides, and the registration fee. The registration fee for a particular vehicle follow the formula laid out here, but may more easily be determined by calling the DMV at (800) DMV-UTAH
- A bill of sale
- A Certificate Of Inspection (Form TC-661), unless the vehicle was purchased new from a Utah dealership
- If the boat was purchased from a previous Utah owner, the existing title, signed over to the buyer, or if the previous title is unavailable, an Application for Utah Duplicate Title (Form TC-123)