The thrill of buying a new boat can make someone often forget about the details, such as transferring the boat title from the seller to the buyer. This process can get confusing, but we broke it down to three simple steps to help you get on the lake quicker than ever!
NOTE: When purchasing your boat through Action Water Sports, we will take care of the title and registration for you!
Step 1: Boat Payment
Once you pay for the boat, you’ll receive the title and registration for both the boat and trailer. The title, just like a car, designates you as the legal owner of the boat. If the seller doesn’t have the title, they must apply for a duplicate which will take 4-6 weeks to complete. If they do not have registration for the trailer, they must get the weight of the trailer which can be done at the nearest weigh station.
Step 2: Clear Lien on Boat
If there is a lien on the boat still, the seller must clear that amount. The easiest and quickest way to do that is to go to the seller’s bank with them so they can pay and clear the lien. If there is no lien on the title, you are clear to take it to the Secretary of State.
Step 3: Registration Office
You’re almost done! If you live in Michigan, you’ll head to the Secretary of State with the title and register the boat in your name. If you live in Florida, you’ll need to head to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). All of you need to bring is your ID, proof of insurance for the boat, and bill of sale.
Thanks for reading!
If you have any other questions please contact your local Action Water Sports, we’re more than happy to help! If you have any questions regarding boat insurance, check out our blog outlining that here.
