Maryland Boat Bill of Sale
A Maryland boat bill of sale is a legal document that records the exchange of a boat between a buyer and seller in the state of Maryland. Whether you are buying or selling a boat through a private exchange, this document safeguards both parties by creating a formal written record of the agreement, including the sale price, date, and detailed description of the boat being transferred.
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Maryland Boat Requirements
What to Include
A Maryland boat bill of sale calls for specific information to be considered legally valid. Including all vital details ensures the agreement will be accepted by Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration and provides comprehensive protection for both the buyer and seller.
Your Maryland boat bill of sale form should contain the full legal name of the seller as it appears on official identification, the complete mailing address of the seller including street, city, state, and ZIP code, the full legal name of the buyer who will become the new owner, the complete mailing address of the buyer, the manufacturer of the boat or watercraft, the model name or designation of the vessel, the model year of the boat, the Hull Identification Number (HIN), a unique identifier for the vessel. Additionally, you should include the overall length of the boat, the hull material type such as fiberglass, aluminum, or wood, the type of propulsion system (outboard, inboard, sail, etc.), the agreed-upon purchase price in US dollars, the date the sale takes place, the signature of the seller, the signature of the buyer, the current registration number.
Missing any of these required fields could result in the agreement being rejected during the title transfer process or failing to provide adequate legal protection. Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration may request additional documentation if the bill of sale is incomplete or contains errors. Always double-check that every field is filled in accurately before both parties sign the Maryland boat bill of sale.
How to Complete
Completing a Maryland boat bill of sale involves several straightforward steps. Begin by gathering all necessary information about the boat, including identification numbers, the agreed-upon sale price, and personal details for both the buyer and seller.
Fill in every section of the Maryland boat bill of sale form completely and accurately. Use the legal names that appear on government-issued identification for both parties. Verify all boat details against official documentation such as the title or registration.
Because Maryland requires notarization, both the buyer and seller should sign the bill of sale in the presence of a licensed notary public. The notary will verify identities, witness the signatures, and apply their official seal to the document.
Both the buyer and seller should retain signed copies of the completed bill of sale for their personal records. After completing the bill of sale, the buyer must transfer the title and register the boat with Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration within 60 days of the purchase date. Delays in title transfer may result in late fees or penalties.
Maryland-Specific Notes: Maryland requires notarization of the bill of sale. Vehicle Excise Tax applies at 6% of fair market value or purchase price.
This bill of sale must be notarized to be legally valid in this state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a boat bill of sale need to be notarized in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland requires notarization for a boat bill of sale. Both buyer and seller must sign before a licensed notary who verifies identities and applies their seal. Find a notary at most banks, UPS stores, or via mobile notary services. Without notarization, Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration may not accept the document.
How much does it cost to get a boat bill of sale in Maryland?
Creating a boat bill of sale with Your Bill of Sale costs $5. You fill in your details online and instantly download a completed, ready-to-sign PDF formatted to Maryland requirements - not a blank template.
Does a boat bill of sale need to include the hull identification number (HIN)?
Yes. The HIN is the boat's unique identifier - similar to a VIN on a car. Your Maryland boat bill of sale must include the HIN for Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration to process title transfer or registration. The HIN is typically stamped on the transom (rear) of the boat. Also include the make, model, year, and length of the vessel.
Do I need to register a boat after buying it in Maryland?
Yes. Most motorized boats and some non-motorized vessels must be registered in Maryland. After purchase, complete title transfer and registration through Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration within 60 days. You will need the signed bill of sale, the previous title, proof of identity, and registration fees. Unregistered boats are subject to fines.
Do both buyer and seller need a copy of the bill of sale in Maryland?
Yes. Both parties should keep a signed copy. The buyer needs it for title transfer and registration at Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration. The seller should keep theirs as proof of the ownership transfer - this protects them from liability if the buyer later gets tickets, is in an accident, or commits a crime involving the boat.
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