Rhode Island Boat Bill of Sale Overview
Rhode Island registers boats through the Department of Environmental Management (DEM). The Ocean State, true to its name, has a strong boating culture centered on Narragansett Bay, Block Island Sound, and numerous coastal harbors. All motorized vessels must be registered.
Rhode Island's 7% 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.
Rhode Island does not require notarization of boat bills of sale for most transactions, though having the document notarized is recommended for higher-value vessels. The Rhode Island DEM Division of Law Enforcement processes title transfers and new registrations.
7%
State sales tax
30 days
Transfer deadline
No
Notarization required
Yes
Titling Required
Rhode Island Boat Registration Requirements
Rhode Island's boat registration requirements are managed by the Rhode Island DEM Division of Law Enforcement. Here's what you need for a smooth transaction:
Important: Rhode Island Registration Notice
Rhode Island 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: Rhode Island driver's license or state ID
- Payment: Title fee, registration fee ($10-$100), and sales tax (7%)
How to Fill Out a Rhode Island Boat Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Rhode Island boat bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with Rhode Island requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Record the seller's full legal name as it appears on the Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 RI 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. Rhode Island sales tax of 7% 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 Rhode Island DEM Division of Law Enforcement within 30 days.
Rhode Island Boat Title Transfer Process
After completing the bill of sale and signing the title, the buyer must register the vessel with the Rhode Island DEM Division of Law Enforcement.
Complete the Sale
Sign the bill of sale, sign the title, exchange payment and any included equipment
Obtain Insurance (If Required)
Check whether Rhode Island requires boat insurance before registration
Visit the Rhode Island DEM Division of Law Enforcement
Bring the signed title, bill of sale, photo ID, and payment for fees and taxes
Pay Fees and Taxes
Registration fee ($10-$100), title fee, and sales tax (7%)
Receive Registration and Decals
Rhode Island issues new registration numbers and decals to display on the hull
Rhode Island Boat Sales Tax & Fees
Here's a breakdown of the costs you can expect when registering a boat in Rhode Island:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| State Sales Tax | 7% of sale price |
| Local Tax | Varies by jurisdiction |
| Title Transfer Fee | $4-$25 (varies) |
| Registration Fee | $10-$100 |
| Duplicate Title | $10-$25 |
| Late Fee | Varies |
Sample Rhode Island Boat Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Rhode Island-specific boat bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by the Rhode Island DEM Division of Law Enforcement.
STATE OF RHODE ISLAND
BOAT / WATERCRAFT BILL OF SALE
Private Party Vessel Transfer
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [Rhode Island Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [Rhode Island Address]
VESSEL INFORMATION
Year: [Year] Make: [Make] Model: [Model]
HIN: [12-character HIN]
Length: [ft] Hull: [Material]
Engine: [Make/HP]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Rhode Island Boat Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Rhode Island boat bills of sale, vessel registration, and title transfers.
Official Rhode Island Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify requirements, find your local office, and access government forms for your Rhode Island boat transaction.
Other Rhode Island Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Rhode Island? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
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Rhode Island General Bill of Sale
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