When a boat is sold or purchased in the state of Nevada, it is legally mandated that a bill of sale form accompany the transaction. This form is legal proof of the transaction and contains essential information about the buyer, seller, and watercraft. The Nevada boat bill of sale will be required to transfer the title (or create a title if one does not exist). It will also be necessary for the initial registration of the vessel after purchase.
Nevada Boat Bill of Sale Requirements
A valid bill of sale for Nevada will require specific information. That information will include the names of the buyer and seller, along with the purchase amount. The buyer must provide their full legal name, physical address, mailing address, and a valid Nevada identification number (driver’s license, FEIN, or Identification Card Number).
The form must also include the vessel’s hull identification number (HIN), if available. Otherwise, titling will require a manufacturer’s statement of origin or an in-person vessel inspection.
After the purchase, the new owner must title and register the boat.
Registering a Boat (After Purchasing)
After the purchase, the new owner must register the vessel with the state of Nevada. That is handled by the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW). Registrations last for one year and expire every year on December 31.
If the boat is purchased out of state, the new owner may be required to bring the boat to an NDOW office for a boat inspection. You can contact the NDOW directly to verify whether this is necessary.
Where to Register
The process must be done in person when registering a new boat in Nevada. This can occur at any state Nevada Department of Wildlife office, but you will need an appointment. You can make your appointment on the NDOW Website.
Documents Needed to Obtain Title and Registration
- Bill of Sale
- Certificate of title
- Proof of sales tax (not required for private-party sales in other states)
- Registration fees
- Social Security number
Fees
New boat owners will need to pay a titling fee and registration fee. The titling fee is a flat $20 charge to be paid at the office when the paperwork is processed.
The registration fee is annual, and the amount depends on the size of the boat:
- Less than 13 feet – $20
- 13 to less than 18 feet – $25
- 18 to less than 22 feet – $40
- 22 to less than 26 feet – $55
- 26 to less than 32 feet – $75
- 31 feet or more – $100
Exemptions
- Non-motorized vessels
- Lifeboats
Nevada Boat Bill of Sale Template
Below, you can download a Nevada boat bill of sale in PDF or Word format:
Does a Boat Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized in Nevada?
Yes, a boar bill of sale has to be notarized in Nevada, and the buyer and seller must sign the form.