How do I transfer ownership of a used boat in Ohio?
You will need to follow these steps:
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Obtain a bill of sale: The buyer and seller must complete a bill of sale to document the transfer of ownership. You can use a generic bill of sale form, or the Ohio Division of Parks and Watercraft provides a specific form for this purpose.
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Obtain a title: The seller must provide the buyer with the boat's title, which is a legal document that proves ownership. If the seller cannot locate the title, they can apply for a duplicate copy from the Ohio Division of Parks and Watercraft.
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Complete the title transfer: The buyer must complete the back of the boat's title, including the purchase price, date of sale, and their contact information. The seller must sign the title to transfer ownership.
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Register the boat: The buyer must register the boat with the Ohio Division of Parks and Watercraft within 30 days of the purchase. To register the boat, the buyer will need to complete a registration form, provide proof of ownership, and pay a registration fee. If you are not the listed owner of the boat on the current registration, you will need official documentation of the ownership change before you can renew the registration. Renewal in these circumstances requires you to appear in person at a Boat Registration Agent or at a Watercraft Office to get the registration put in your name.
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Obtain new registration: Once the boat is registered, the buyer will receive a new registration card and a set of registration decals. The buyer must affix the decals to the boat and carry the registration card on board whenever the boat is in use.
It is important to note that Ohio law requires all boats with a motor of more than 10 horsepower to be titled and registered. If the boat is exempt from registration, such as a non-motorized watercraft or a boat used solely for racing, the buyer and seller will still need to complete a bill of sale to document the transfer of ownership.
