Bellow are the steps to follow to transfer the ownership of a used boat in Indiana:

  1. Obtain a bill of sale from the seller: The bill of sale should include the names and addresses of both the buyer and seller, the date of sale, a description of the boat (including the hull identification number), and the purchase price.

  2. Obtain a certificate of title: If the boat is titled in Indiana, the seller should provide you with the original certificate of title. If the boat is not titled in Indiana, you will need to contact the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles to find out what documentation is required to obtain a title.

  3. Complete the transfer of ownership section on the certificate of title: The seller will need to sign the back of the title and provide their signature, printed name, and address. The buyer will also need to sign the back of the title and provide their signature, printed name, and address.

  4. Obtain a new certificate of registration: If the boat is currently registered in Indiana, the buyer will need to obtain a new certificate of registration in their name. To do this, the buyer will need to complete an Application for Certificate of Registration and submit it, along with the bill of sale and the certificate of title, to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

  5. Pay the transfer fees: There will be a transfer fee for transferring the ownership of the boat. The fee will vary depending on the value of the boat.

*Please note

Motorboat and PWC operators (powered by a motor greater than 10 hp) must have a valid driver’s license if they wish to operate on Indiana waters.

A person who has never held a driver’s license must complete a DNR-approved boater education course such as aceboater.com and carry on board an ID card issued by the Indiana BMV if they wish to operate a motorboat or PWC.

Once all of these steps have been completed, the buyer will be the new owner of the boat and will be able to legally operate it on Indiana waters.