New Hampshire Boat Bill of Sale Overview
New Hampshire manages boat registration through the Division of Safety Services, Marine Patrol. The Granite State has no sales tax, making it a popular state for boat purchases. Lake Winnipesaukee, Squam Lake, and Newfound Lake are premier boating destinations.
One significant advantage of buying a boat in New Hampshire 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.
New Hampshire does not require notarization of boat bills of sale for most transactions, though having the document notarized is recommended for higher-value vessels. The New Hampshire Marine Patrol / Safety Services processes title transfers and new registrations.
0%
State sales tax
30 days
Transfer deadline
No
Notarization required
Yes
Titling Required
New Hampshire Boat Registration Requirements
New Hampshire's boat registration requirements are managed by the New Hampshire Marine Patrol / Safety Services. Here's what you need for a smooth transaction:
Important: New Hampshire Registration Notice
New Hampshire 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: New Hampshire driver's license or state ID
- Payment: Title fee, registration fee ($18-$63), and sales tax (0% (no sales tax))
How to Fill Out a New Hampshire Boat Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your New Hampshire boat bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with New Hampshire requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Record the seller's full legal name as it appears on the New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire 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 NH 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. New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire Marine Patrol / Safety Services within 30 days.
New Hampshire Boat Title Transfer Process
After completing the bill of sale and signing the title, the buyer must register the vessel with the New Hampshire Marine Patrol / Safety Services.
Complete the Sale
Sign the bill of sale, sign the title, exchange payment and any included equipment
Obtain Insurance (If Required)
Check whether New Hampshire requires boat insurance before registration
Visit the New Hampshire Marine Patrol / Safety Services
Bring the signed title, bill of sale, photo ID, and payment for fees and taxes
Pay Fees and Taxes
Registration fee ($18-$63), title fee, and sales tax (0% (no sales tax))
Receive Registration and Decals
New Hampshire issues new registration numbers and decals to display on the hull
New Hampshire Boat Sales Tax & Fees
Here's a breakdown of the costs you can expect when registering a boat in New Hampshire:
| 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 | $18-$63 |
| Duplicate Title | $10-$25 |
| Late Fee | Varies |
Sample New Hampshire Boat Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our New Hampshire-specific boat bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by the New Hampshire Marine Patrol / Safety Services.
STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE
BOAT / WATERCRAFT BILL OF SALE
Private Party Vessel Transfer
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [New Hampshire Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [New Hampshire Address]
VESSEL INFORMATION
Year: [Year] Make: [Make] Model: [Model]
HIN: [12-character HIN]
Length: [ft] Hull: [Material]
Engine: [Make/HP]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
New Hampshire Boat Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about New Hampshire boat bills of sale, vessel registration, and title transfers.
Official New Hampshire Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify requirements, find your local office, and access government forms for your New Hampshire boat transaction.
Other New Hampshire Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for New Hampshire? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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New Hampshire General Bill of Sale
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New Hampshire ATV Bill of Sale
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New Hampshire Horse Bill of Sale
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New Hampshire Mobile Home Bill of Sale
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