Delaware Boat Bill of Sale Overview
Delaware registers boats through the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC). The First State offers no sales tax — a major advantage for boat buyers. With the Delaware Bay, Rehoboth Bay, and the Indian River, boating is deeply woven into Delaware's coastal identity.
One significant advantage of buying a boat in Delaware is the absence of state sales tax, which can save buyers thousands of dollars on larger vessels. Local taxes may still apply in some jurisdictions.
Delaware does not require notarization of boat bills of sale for most transactions, though having the document notarized is recommended for higher-value vessels. The Delaware DNREC Fish & Wildlife processes title transfers and new registrations.
0%
State sales tax
30 days
Transfer deadline
No
Notarization required
Yes
Titling Required
Delaware Boat Registration Requirements
Delaware's boat registration requirements are managed by the Delaware DNREC Fish & Wildlife. Here's what you need for a smooth transaction:
Important: Delaware Registration Notice
Delaware requires boat registration within 30 days of purchase. Always verify that the hull identification number (HIN) on the physical boat matches the HIN on the title before completing the purchase. Keep copies of all documents for your records.
What the Seller Must Provide
- Signed Boat Title: The seller must sign the title and fill in the buyer's name, date, and sale price
- Bill of Sale: A completed bill of sale with HIN, vessel description, engine details, and transaction information
- HIN Verification: The 12-character hull identification number must match the title exactly
- Lien Release: If there is an existing loan on the boat, a lien release from the lender is required
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 sale price
- Valid Photo ID: Delaware driver's license or state ID
- Payment: Title fee, registration fee ($20-$60), and sales tax (0% (no sales tax))
How to Fill Out a Delaware Boat Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Delaware boat bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with Delaware requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Record the seller's full legal name as it appears on the Delaware boat title, current mailing address, and phone number. If the title lists multiple owners, determine if all must sign.
Enter Buyer Information
Record the buyer's full legal name exactly as it should appear on the new title, current Delaware address, and contact information. The buyer's location may affect local tax rates.
Describe the Watercraft
Enter the year, make, model, overall length, hull material, hull type, and 12-character HIN from the transom. Include the current DE registration number if applicable.
Record Engine Details
Include the engine make, model, horsepower, fuel type (gas, diesel, electric), and serial number. For boats with multiple engines, document each one separately.
State the Sale Price
Enter the agreed purchase price in both numbers and words. Delaware sales tax of 0% (no sales tax) will be calculated from this figure. While there is no state sales tax, local taxes may apply.
Sign and Date
Both buyer and seller must sign and date the bill of sale. Print two copies — one for each party. The buyer should register with the Delaware DNREC Fish & Wildlife within 30 days.
Delaware Boat Title Transfer Process
After completing the bill of sale and signing the title, the buyer must register the vessel with the Delaware DNREC Fish & Wildlife.
Complete the Sale
Sign the bill of sale, sign the title, exchange payment and any included equipment
Obtain Insurance (If Required)
Check whether Delaware requires boat insurance before registration
Visit the Delaware DNREC Fish & Wildlife
Bring the signed title, bill of sale, photo ID, and payment for fees and taxes
Pay Fees and Taxes
Registration fee ($20-$60), title fee, and sales tax (0% (no sales tax))
Receive Registration and Decals
Delaware issues new registration numbers and decals to display on the hull
Delaware Boat Sales Tax & Fees
Here's a breakdown of the costs you can expect when registering a boat in Delaware:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| State Sales Tax | 0% (no sales tax) of sale price |
| Local Tax | Varies by jurisdiction |
| Title Transfer Fee | $4-$25 (varies) |
| Registration Fee | $20-$60 |
| Duplicate Title | $10-$25 |
| Late Fee | Varies |
Sample Delaware Boat Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Delaware-specific boat bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by the Delaware DNREC Fish & Wildlife.
STATE OF DELAWARE
BOAT / WATERCRAFT BILL OF SALE
Private Party Vessel Transfer
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [Delaware Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [Delaware Address]
VESSEL INFORMATION
Year: [Year] Make: [Make] Model: [Model]
HIN: [12-character HIN]
Length: [ft] Hull: [Material]
Engine: [Make/HP]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Delaware Boat Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Delaware boat bills of sale, vessel registration, and title transfers.
Official Delaware Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify requirements, find your local office, and access government forms for your Delaware boat transaction.
Other Delaware Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Delaware? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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Create Your Delaware Boat Bill of Sale
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