Arkansas Boat Bill of Sale Overview
Arkansas registers boats through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC). With popular lakes such as Beaver Lake, Bull Shoals, Greers Ferry, and Lake Ouachita, watercraft sales are common in the Natural State. The AGFC requires registration for all motorized vessels and issues titles for boats with motors.
Arkansas's boat registration is handled by the AGFC, with offices across the state. Registrations must be renewed every three years. The state assigns an AR number that must be displayed on the hull in block letters at least three inches high.
Arkansas's 6.5% state sales tax applies to boat purchases, with additional local taxes in some areas. The AGFC processes title transfers and requires both the signed title and bill of sale to complete the ownership change.
6.5%
State sales tax
30 days
Transfer deadline
No
Notarization required
Yes
Titling Required
Arkansas Boat Registration Requirements
Arkansas's boat registration requirements are managed by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC). Here's what you need for a smooth transaction:
Important: Arkansas Registration Notice
Arkansas requires boat registration within 30 days of purchase. Registrations are valid for three years. Boats must display the AR registration number on both sides of the bow. The hull identification number (HIN) must match the title — any discrepancies will delay the transfer.
What the Seller Must Provide
- Signed Boat Title: The seller must sign the title and complete the buyer's information section
- Bill of Sale: A completed bill of sale with HIN, vessel details, and sale price
- HIN Verification: The 12-character hull identification number must match the title
- Lien Release: If there's an outstanding loan, provide a lien release from the lender
What the Buyer Must Bring
- Signed Title: With seller's signature and all fields completed
- Bill of Sale: Signed by both parties with vessel details and price
- Valid Photo ID: Arkansas driver's license or state ID
- Payment: Registration fee, title fee, and sales tax
How to Fill Out a Arkansas Boat Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Arkansas boat bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with Arkansas requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Record the seller's full legal name as shown on the title, current Arkansas address, and phone number.
Enter Buyer Information
Record the buyer's full legal name for the new title, current address, and phone number.
Describe the Watercraft
List the year, make, model, overall length, hull material, hull type, and 12-character HIN. Include the existing AR registration number.
Record Engine Details
Note the engine make, model, horsepower, fuel type, and engine serial number. For multi-engine setups, list each engine.
State the Sale Price
Write the agreed price in both numbers and words. The 6.5% state sales tax will be calculated based on this amount.
Sign and Date
Both parties must sign and date the bill of sale. The buyer has 30 days to title and register with the AGFC.
Arkansas Boat Title Transfer Process
After completing the bill of sale and signing the title, the buyer must register the vessel with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC).
Complete the Sale
Sign the bill of sale, sign the title, exchange payment and any included equipment
Obtain Insurance (If Required)
Check whether Arkansas requires boat insurance before registration
Visit the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC)
Bring the signed title, bill of sale, photo ID, and payment for fees and taxes
Pay Fees and Taxes
Registration fee ($10-$25 (varies by length)), title fee, and sales tax (6.5%)
Receive Registration and Decals
Arkansas issues new registration numbers and decals to display on the hull
Arkansas Boat Sales Tax & Fees
Here's a breakdown of the costs you can expect when registering a boat in Arkansas:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| State Sales Tax | 6.5% of sale price |
| Local Tax | Up to 5.5% additional |
| Title Fee | $10 |
| Registration (under 16 ft) | $10 |
| Registration (16+ ft) | $25 |
| Duplicate Title | $10 |
| Late Registration Penalty | $10 |
Sample Arkansas Boat Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Arkansas-specific boat bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC).
STATE OF ARKANSAS
BOAT / WATERCRAFT BILL OF SALE
Private Party Vessel Transfer
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [Arkansas Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [Arkansas Address]
VESSEL INFORMATION
Year: [Year] Make: [Make] Model: [Model]
HIN: [12-character HIN]
Length: [ft] Hull: [Material]
Engine: [Make/HP]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Arkansas Boat Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Arkansas boat bills of sale, vessel registration, and title transfers.
Official Arkansas Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify requirements, find your local office, and access government forms for your Arkansas boat transaction.
Arkansas Game & Fish Commission — Boating
Boat registration, titling, and water safety
AGFC Boat Registration
Registration forms, fees, and instructions
U.S. Coast Guard — Boating Safety
Federal boating safety regulations and HIN information
NICB Boat HIN Check
Check if a vessel has been reported stolen or salvaged
Other Arkansas Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Arkansas? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
Arkansas Vehicle Bill of Sale
Cars, trucks, and SUVs
Arkansas Motorcycle Bill of Sale
Motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds
Arkansas Trailer Bill of Sale
Utility, travel, and cargo trailers
Arkansas Firearm Bill of Sale
Handguns, rifles, and shotguns
Arkansas General Bill of Sale
Furniture, electronics, and personal property
Arkansas ATV Bill of Sale
ATVs, UTVs, and off-road vehicles
Arkansas Horse Bill of Sale
Horses, cattle, and livestock
Arkansas Mobile Home Bill of Sale
Manufactured and mobile homes
Create Your Arkansas Boat Bill of Sale
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