California Boat Bill of Sale Overview
California handles boat registration through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), making it one of the few states where boats and cars are registered at the same agency. California requires registration of all motorized vessels and undocumented vessels used on California waters. The state issues certificates of number rather than traditional titles for most boats.
California's vessel registration system is extensive, reflecting the state's massive coastline and numerous inland waterways. The state uses a CF number system (California registration numbers) that must be displayed on both sides of the bow. Registration is valid for two years.
California's 7.25% base sales tax rate is among the highest in the nation, and local district taxes can push the combined rate above 10%. Additionally, California may charge use tax on boats purchased out of state. The Division of Boating and Waterways oversees safety regulations.
7.25%
State sales tax
30 days
Transfer deadline
No
Notarization required
CF Numbers
Titling Required
California Boat Registration Requirements
California's boat registration requirements are managed by the California DMV. Here's what you need for a smooth transaction:
Important: California Registration Notice
California requires vessel transfer within 30 days of sale. The state charges use tax on out-of-state purchases brought into California within 12 months. Quagga mussel inspection may be required when launching at certain lakes. California CF numbers must be displayed on the hull.
What the Seller Must Provide
- Signed Registration Card: Sign the back of the vessel registration card (REG 343)
- Bill of Sale: Complete bill of sale with HIN, vessel details, and transaction information
- Release of Liability: File a Notice of Transfer/Release of Liability (REG 138) with the DMV
- Smog / Verification: Not applicable for vessels
What the Buyer Must Bring
- Signed Registration Card: The seller's signed registration card
- Bill of Sale: Signed by both parties
- Application for Registration: Complete DMV form REG 343
- Payment: Registration fees, use tax, and applicable quagga mussel surcharge
How to Fill Out a California Boat Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your California boat bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with California requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name as it appears on the current California vessel registration, California address, and phone number.
Enter Buyer Information
Include the buyer's full legal name, California address, and phone number. California does not use traditional titles for most boats, so the registration card is the key document.
Describe the Watercraft
Enter the year, make, model, length, hull material, propulsion type, and HIN. Include the California CF registration number from the current registration.
Record Engine Details
List engine make, horsepower, fuel type, and serial number. California emissions standards may apply to certain marine engines.
State the Sale Price
Enter the purchase price. California's combined tax rate ranges from 7.25% to over 10% depending on county. Under-reporting the sale price is a misdemeanor.
Sign and Date
Both parties sign and date the bill of sale. The buyer must transfer registration at the DMV within 30 days. The seller should file REG 138 immediately.
California Boat Title Transfer Process
After completing the bill of sale and signing the title, the buyer must register the vessel with the California DMV.
Complete the Sale
Sign the bill of sale, sign the title, exchange payment and any included equipment
Obtain Insurance (If Required)
Check whether California requires boat insurance before registration
Visit the California DMV
Bring the signed title, bill of sale, photo ID, and payment for fees and taxes
Pay Fees and Taxes
Registration fee ($20-$400 (based on length and use)), title fee, and sales tax (7.25%)
Receive Registration and Decals
California issues new registration numbers and decals to display on the hull
California Boat Sales Tax & Fees
Here's a breakdown of the costs you can expect when registering a boat in California:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| State Sales/Use Tax | 7.25% base (up to 10.75% with local) |
| Registration Transfer | $24 |
| CF Number Issuance | $20 |
| Quagga Mussel Fee | $16 |
| Registration (varies by type) | $20-$400 |
| Late Transfer Penalty | Varies |
| Duplicate Registration | $22 |
Sample California Boat Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our California-specific boat bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by the California DMV.
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
BOAT / WATERCRAFT BILL OF SALE
Private Party Vessel Transfer
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [California Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [California Address]
VESSEL INFORMATION
Year: [Year] Make: [Make] Model: [Model]
HIN: [12-character HIN]
Length: [ft] Hull: [Material]
Engine: [Make/HP]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
California Boat Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about California boat bills of sale, vessel registration, and title transfers.
Official California Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify requirements, find your local office, and access government forms for your California boat transaction.
California DMV — Vessel Registration
Registration, titling, and transfer requirements
California Division of Boating and Waterways
Boating safety, regulations, and resources
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 California Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for California? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
California Vehicle Bill of Sale
Cars, trucks, and SUVs
California Motorcycle Bill of Sale
Motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds
California Trailer Bill of Sale
Utility, travel, and cargo trailers
California Firearm Bill of Sale
Handguns, rifles, and shotguns
California General Bill of Sale
Furniture, electronics, and personal property
California ATV Bill of Sale
ATVs, UTVs, and off-road vehicles
California Horse Bill of Sale
Horses, cattle, and livestock
California Mobile Home Bill of Sale
Manufactured and mobile homes
Create Your California Boat Bill of Sale
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