Kentucky Boat Bill of Sale Overview
Kentucky handles boat registration through the Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, with title processing through county clerks. The Bluegrass State's renowned lakes — Kentucky Lake, Lake Cumberland, Lake Barkley, and Dale Hollow Lake — make it one of the top boating states in the Southeast.
Kentucky'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.
Kentucky does not require notarization of boat bills of sale for most transactions, though having the document notarized is recommended for higher-value vessels. The Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources processes title transfers and new registrations.
6%
State sales tax
30 days
Transfer deadline
No
Notarization required
Yes
Titling Required
Kentucky Boat Registration Requirements
Kentucky's boat registration requirements are managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources. Here's what you need for a smooth transaction:
Important: Kentucky Registration Notice
Kentucky 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: Kentucky driver's license or state ID
- Payment: Title fee, registration fee ($15-$75), and sales tax (6%)
How to Fill Out a Kentucky Boat Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Kentucky boat bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with Kentucky requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Record the seller's full legal name as it appears on the Kentucky 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 Kentucky 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 KY 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. Kentucky 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 Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources within 30 days.
Kentucky Boat Title Transfer Process
After completing the bill of sale and signing the title, the buyer must register the vessel with the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources.
Complete the Sale
Sign the bill of sale, sign the title, exchange payment and any included equipment
Obtain Insurance (If Required)
Check whether Kentucky requires boat insurance before registration
Visit the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources
Bring the signed title, bill of sale, photo ID, and payment for fees and taxes
Pay Fees and Taxes
Registration fee ($15-$75), title fee, and sales tax (6%)
Receive Registration and Decals
Kentucky issues new registration numbers and decals to display on the hull
Kentucky Boat Sales Tax & Fees
Here's a breakdown of the costs you can expect when registering a boat in Kentucky:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| State Sales Tax | 6% of sale price |
| Local Tax | Varies by jurisdiction |
| Title Transfer Fee | $4-$25 (varies) |
| Registration Fee | $15-$75 |
| Duplicate Title | $10-$25 |
| Late Fee | Varies |
Sample Kentucky Boat Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Kentucky-specific boat bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources.
STATE OF KENTUCKY
BOAT / WATERCRAFT BILL OF SALE
Private Party Vessel Transfer
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [Kentucky Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [Kentucky Address]
VESSEL INFORMATION
Year: [Year] Make: [Make] Model: [Model]
HIN: [12-character HIN]
Length: [ft] Hull: [Material]
Engine: [Make/HP]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Kentucky Boat Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Kentucky boat bills of sale, vessel registration, and title transfers.
Official Kentucky Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify requirements, find your local office, and access government forms for your Kentucky boat transaction.
Kentucky Fish & Wildlife — Boat Registration
Registration, titling, and boating information
Kentucky Transportation — Boats
Title transfers and county clerk information
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 Kentucky Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Kentucky? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
Kentucky Vehicle Bill of Sale
Cars, trucks, and SUVs
Kentucky Motorcycle Bill of Sale
Motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds
Kentucky Trailer Bill of Sale
Utility, travel, and cargo trailers
Kentucky Firearm Bill of Sale
Handguns, rifles, and shotguns
Kentucky General Bill of Sale
Furniture, electronics, and personal property
Kentucky ATV Bill of Sale
ATVs, UTVs, and off-road vehicles
Kentucky Horse Bill of Sale
Horses, cattle, and livestock
Kentucky Mobile Home Bill of Sale
Manufactured and mobile homes
Create Your Kentucky Boat Bill of Sale
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