Montana Boat Bill of Sale Overview
Montana registers boats through Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP). Big Sky Country offers exceptional boating on Flathead Lake (the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi), Fort Peck Lake, Canyon Ferry Lake, and numerous rivers. Montana has no state sales tax, making it appealing for boat purchases.
One significant advantage of buying a boat in Montana 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.
Montana requires notarization of boat bills of sale, so both parties should plan to sign in the presence of a notary public. This adds legal weight to the document and helps prevent fraud.
0%
State sales tax
60 days
Transfer deadline
Yes
Notarization required
Yes
Titling Required
Montana Boat Registration Requirements
Montana's boat registration requirements are managed by the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP). Here's what you need for a smooth transaction:
Important: Montana Registration Notice
Montana requires boat registration within 60 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. This state requires notarization of the bill of sale.
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: Montana driver's license or state ID
- Payment: Title fee, registration fee ($20-$125), and sales tax (0% (no sales tax))
How to Fill Out a Montana Boat Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Montana boat bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with Montana requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Record the seller's full legal name as it appears on the Montana 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 Montana 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 MT 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. Montana 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. Montana requires notarization of the bill of sale. The buyer should register with the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) within 60 days.
Montana Boat Title Transfer Process
After completing the bill of sale and signing the title, the buyer must register the vessel with the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP).
Complete the Sale
Sign the bill of sale, sign the title, exchange payment and any included equipment
Obtain Insurance (If Required)
Check whether Montana requires boat insurance before registration
Visit the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP)
Bring the signed title, bill of sale, photo ID, and payment for fees and taxes
Pay Fees and Taxes
Registration fee ($20-$125), title fee, and sales tax (0% (no sales tax))
Receive Registration and Decals
Montana issues new registration numbers and decals to display on the hull
Montana Boat Sales Tax & Fees
Here's a breakdown of the costs you can expect when registering a boat in Montana:
| 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-$125 |
| Duplicate Title | $10-$25 |
| Late Fee | Varies |
Sample Montana Boat Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Montana-specific boat bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP).
STATE OF MONTANA
BOAT / WATERCRAFT BILL OF SALE
Private Party Vessel Transfer
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [Montana Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [Montana Address]
VESSEL INFORMATION
Year: [Year] Make: [Make] Model: [Model]
HIN: [12-character HIN]
Length: [ft] Hull: [Material]
Engine: [Make/HP]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Montana Boat Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Montana boat bills of sale, vessel registration, and title transfers.
Official Montana Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify requirements, find your local office, and access government forms for your Montana boat transaction.
Other Montana Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Montana? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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