Arizona Boat Bill of Sale Overview
In the desert state of Arizona, boating is a surprisingly popular pastime. With destination lakes like Lake Powell, Lake Havasu, Roosevelt Lake, and Saguaro Lake, the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) manages all boat registration and titling. Arizona requires titles for all motorized watercraft, and the bill of sale is essential for documenting the ownership transfer.
Arizona's boat registration is managed entirely by AZGFD rather than the MVD. The state requires watercraft to display valid Arizona registration numbers and decals. Registration periods run from January through December, and fees are prorated based on when during the year you register.
Arizona's 5.6% state sales tax applies to boat purchases, and county taxes can push the combined rate above 10% in some areas. The AZGFD processes title transfers and new registrations at its regional offices throughout the state.
5.6%
State sales tax
15 days
Transfer deadline
No
Notarization required
Yes
Titling Required
Arizona Boat Registration Requirements
Arizona's boat registration requirements are managed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD). Here's what you need for a smooth transaction:
Important: Arizona Registration Notice
Arizona requires all motorized watercraft to be registered with AZGFD within 15 days of purchase. Registration numbers must be displayed on both sides of the bow. Boats operated on Lake Powell must also comply with Utah registration requirements if crossing the state line.
What the Seller Must Provide
- Signed Boat Title: The seller must sign and date the title, filling in the buyer's information
- Bill of Sale: Complete bill of sale with HIN, boat description, and transaction details
- HIN Verification: The hull identification number must match the title exactly
- Lien Release: If there's an existing loan, a lien release from the lender
What the Buyer Must Bring
- Signed Title: With seller's signature and completed fields
- Bill of Sale: Signed by both buyer and seller
- Valid Photo ID: Arizona driver's license or state ID
- Payment: Title fee, registration fee, and sales tax
How to Fill Out a Arizona Boat Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Arizona boat bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with Arizona requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Provide the seller's full legal name as shown on the current Arizona boat title, mailing address, and contact information.
Enter Buyer Information
Provide the buyer's full legal name, Arizona address, and contact details. The buyer's county determines the local tax rate.
Describe the Watercraft
Record the year, make, model, length, hull type, and 12-character HIN from the transom. Note the hull material (fiberglass, aluminum, inflatable, etc.).
Record Engine Details
List engine make, model, horsepower, fuel type, and serial number. Arizona's registration fees are based partly on vessel length.
State the Sale Price
Enter the purchase price in both numbers and words. Arizona's combined sales tax can exceed 10% in some areas, so accurate reporting matters.
Sign and Date
Both parties sign and date the bill of sale. The buyer must register with AZGFD within 15 days of purchase.
Arizona Boat Title Transfer Process
After completing the bill of sale and signing the title, the buyer must register the vessel with the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD).
Complete the Sale
Sign the bill of sale, sign the title, exchange payment and any included equipment
Obtain Insurance (If Required)
Check whether Arizona requires boat insurance before registration
Visit the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD)
Bring the signed title, bill of sale, photo ID, and payment for fees and taxes
Pay Fees and Taxes
Registration fee ($20-$140 (varies by length)), title fee, and sales tax (5.6%)
Receive Registration and Decals
Arizona issues new registration numbers and decals to display on the hull
Arizona Boat Sales Tax & Fees
Here's a breakdown of the costs you can expect when registering a boat in Arizona:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| State Sales Tax | 5.6% of sale price |
| County/City Tax | 0.7-5.6% additional |
| Title Fee | $4 |
| Registration (under 12 ft) | $20 |
| Registration (12-26 ft) | $60 |
| Registration (over 26 ft) | $140 |
| Aquatic Invasive Species Decal | $5 |
Sample Arizona Boat Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Arizona-specific boat bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD).
STATE OF ARIZONA
BOAT / WATERCRAFT BILL OF SALE
Private Party Vessel Transfer
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [Arizona Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [Arizona Address]
VESSEL INFORMATION
Year: [Year] Make: [Make] Model: [Model]
HIN: [12-character HIN]
Length: [ft] Hull: [Material]
Engine: [Make/HP]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Arizona Boat Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Arizona boat bills of sale, vessel registration, and title transfers.
Official Arizona Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify requirements, find your local office, and access government forms for your Arizona boat transaction.
Other Arizona Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Arizona? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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Create Your Arizona Boat Bill of Sale
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