In Delaware, you need a bill of sale to sell a boat. The Delaware boat bill of sale documents the sale. Unlike many other states, Delaware requires the boat bill of sale notarized.
You cannot register a boat in Delaware without a bill of sale.
Delaware Boat Bill of Sale Requirements
At a minimum, the Delaware boat bill of sale must include the purchase price, the condition of the vessel, and the buyer’s and seller’s names and addresses.
The bill of sale for a boat in Delaware is a required document; thus, you should always provide one to the buyer if you are the seller or ensure the seller gives you a bill of sale if you are the buyer.
Registering a Boat
Delaware requires that you register all boats with motors, including electric motors. If a ship is to be launched from a tidal access area administered by the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife, it must be registered or have a valid Tidal Access Boat Ramp Certificate.
As of January 1, 2022, you must also provide a rubbing of the hull identification number.
Where To Register Your Boat in Delaware
The easiest way to register a boat in Delaware is online. The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control handles boat registration.
Delaware law allows you to use your boat while waiting for your stickers. You need to carry the printed online receipt with you. This proves that you registered the boat and are waiting for your stickers.
If you would instead not register online, you can register your boat with any of the agents listed on the DNREC site.
Documents Needed To Obtain Title and Registration
When registering a boat in Delaware, you will need the following documents:
- Delaware boat bill of sale
- The original title or the current registration
- The newest boat registration application
- A non-resident tidal access boat ramp certificate (can be used instead of a valid Delaware boat registration)
- Manufacturer’s certificate of origin if the boat is brand new and has no bill of sale
- Valid photo identification or other proof of identity
Fees
Delaware has several different fees for boat registration. You can also choose whether to register annually or for three years. Fees include:
- Class A (Less than 16 feet) – $20 annually, $60 for three years
- Class 1 (16 feet or over, and less than 26 feet) – $40 annually or $120 for three years
- Class 2 (26 feet or over, and less than 40 feet) – $60 annually or $180 for three years
- Class 3 (40 feet or over, and less than 65 feet) – $100 annually or $300 for three years
- Class 4 (65 feet or over, and not required to be documented) – $120 annually or $360 for three years
If you need a duplicate registration, the fee is $2.30. If you are transferring the boat and have a current registration card, the fee is $3.45. Finally, ramp certificates for out-of-state registered boats are $35. Delaware boat registrations are good from January 1 through December 31.
Exemptions
There are no exemptions to registering a boat in Delaware.
Does a Boat Bill of Sale Have to be Notarized in Delaware?
The Delaware boat bill of sale must be notarized if the vessel is used.
Delaware Boat Bill of Sale Sample
Below, you can download our free Delaware boat bill of sale template in PDF or Word format:
