West Virginia Boat Bill of Sale Overview
West Virginia manages boat registration through the Division of Natural Resources (DNR). The Mountain State's rivers, Summersville Lake, Sutton Lake, Stonewall Jackson Lake, and the Kanawha River system provide varied boating options. West Virginia requires notarization of boat bills of sale.
West Virginia'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.
West Virginia 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.
6%
State sales tax
30 days
Transfer deadline
Yes
Notarization required
Yes
Titling Required
West Virginia Boat Registration Requirements
West Virginia's boat registration requirements are managed by the West Virginia DNR. Here's what you need for a smooth transaction:
Important: West Virginia Registration Notice
West Virginia 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. 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: West Virginia driver's license or state ID
- Payment: Title fee, registration fee ($10-$50), and sales tax (6%)
How to Fill Out a West Virginia Boat Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your West Virginia boat bill of sale. Our template guides you through each field to ensure compliance with West Virginia requirements.
Enter Seller Information
Record the seller's full legal name as it appears on the West Virginia 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 West Virginia 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 WV 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. West Virginia 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. West Virginia requires notarization of the bill of sale. The buyer should register with the West Virginia DNR within 30 days.
West Virginia Boat Title Transfer Process
After completing the bill of sale and signing the title, the buyer must register the vessel with the West Virginia DNR.
Complete the Sale
Sign the bill of sale, sign the title, exchange payment and any included equipment
Obtain Insurance (If Required)
Check whether West Virginia requires boat insurance before registration
Visit the West Virginia DNR
Bring the signed title, bill of sale, photo ID, and payment for fees and taxes
Pay Fees and Taxes
Registration fee ($10-$50), title fee, and sales tax (6%)
Receive Registration and Decals
West Virginia issues new registration numbers and decals to display on the hull
West Virginia Boat Sales Tax & Fees
Here's a breakdown of the costs you can expect when registering a boat in West Virginia:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| State Sales Tax | 6% of sale price |
| Local Tax | Varies by jurisdiction |
| Title Transfer Fee | $4-$25 (varies) |
| Registration Fee | $10-$50 |
| Duplicate Title | $10-$25 |
| Late Fee | Varies |
Sample West Virginia Boat Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our West Virginia-specific boat bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required by the West Virginia DNR.
STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA
BOAT / WATERCRAFT BILL OF SALE
Private Party Vessel Transfer
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Address: [West Virginia Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Address: [West Virginia Address]
VESSEL INFORMATION
Year: [Year] Make: [Make] Model: [Model]
HIN: [12-character HIN]
Length: [ft] Hull: [Material]
Engine: [Make/HP]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
West Virginia Boat Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about West Virginia boat bills of sale, vessel registration, and title transfers.
Official West Virginia Resources
Use these official state and federal resources to verify requirements, find your local office, and access government forms for your West Virginia boat transaction.
Other West Virginia Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for West Virginia? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
West Virginia Vehicle Bill of Sale
Cars, trucks, and SUVs
West Virginia Motorcycle Bill of Sale
Motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds
West Virginia Trailer Bill of Sale
Utility, travel, and cargo trailers
West Virginia Firearm Bill of Sale
Handguns, rifles, and shotguns
West Virginia General Bill of Sale
Furniture, electronics, and personal property
West Virginia ATV Bill of Sale
ATVs, UTVs, and off-road vehicles
West Virginia Horse Bill of Sale
Horses, cattle, and livestock
West Virginia Mobile Home Bill of Sale
Manufactured and mobile homes
Create Your West Virginia Boat Bill of Sale
Answer a few questions and download your West Virginia-compliant document in minutes.
No account required. Free to create and preview.