Florida Boat Bill of Sale Overview
Florida is the boating capital of the United States, with more registered boats than any other state. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) manages vessel registration and titling. From the Florida Keys to the Panhandle, the Sunshine State's 1,350 miles of coastline and 12,000 miles of rivers and streams make watercraft transactions an everyday occurrence.
Florida's 6% state sales tax applies to boat purchases, and local taxes may increase the total. The tax is calculated from the purchase price stated on the bill of sale, making accurate documentation essential.
Florida does not require notarization of boat bills of sale for most transactions, though having the document notarized is recommended for higher-value vessels. The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) processes title transfers and new registrations.
6%
State sales tax
30 days
Transfer deadline
No
Notarization required
Yes
Titling Required
Florida Boat Registration Requirements
Florida's boat registration requirements are managed by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Here's what you need for a smooth transaction:
Important: Florida Registration Notice
Florida 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: Florida driver's license or state ID
- Payment: Title fee, registration fee ($5.50-$189.75 (by length)), and sales tax (6%)
How to Fill Out a Florida Boat Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Florida boat bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with Florida requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Record the seller's full legal name as it appears on the Florida 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 Florida 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 FL 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. Florida sales tax of 6% will be calculated from this figure.
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 Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) within 30 days.
Florida Boat Title Transfer Process
After completing the bill of sale and signing the title, the buyer must register the vessel with the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
Complete the Sale
Sign the bill of sale, sign the title, exchange payment and any included equipment
Obtain Insurance (If Required)
Check whether Florida requires boat insurance before registration
Visit the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
Bring the signed title, bill of sale, photo ID, and payment for fees and taxes
Pay Fees and Taxes
Registration fee ($5.50-$189.75 (by length)), title fee, and sales tax (6%)
Receive Registration and Decals
Florida issues new registration numbers and decals to display on the hull
Florida Boat Sales Tax & Fees
Here's a breakdown of the costs you can expect when registering a boat in Florida:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| State Sales Tax | 6% of sale price |
| Local Tax | Varies by jurisdiction |
| Title Transfer Fee | $4-$25 (varies) |
| Registration Fee | $5.50-$189.75 (by length) |
| Duplicate Title | $10-$25 |
| Late Fee | Varies |
Sample Florida Boat Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Florida-specific boat bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
STATE OF FLORIDA
BOAT / WATERCRAFT BILL OF SALE
Private Party Vessel Transfer
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [Florida Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [Florida Address]
VESSEL INFORMATION
Year: [Year] Make: [Make] Model: [Model]
HIN: [12-character HIN]
Length: [ft] Hull: [Material]
Engine: [Make/HP]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Florida Boat Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Florida boat bills of sale, vessel registration, and title transfers.
Official Florida Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify requirements, find your local office, and access government forms for your Florida boat transaction.
Other Florida Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Florida? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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