A New Jersey boat bill of sale is a document that provides details of the seller, buyer, and specifics about the boat. This can be used before registration, but the ship must still be registered with the state.
It offers protection for all the parties involved against fraud and covers the buyer in case there’s any question of watercraft ownership. Getting a New Jersey boat bill of sale is essential before you conduct the transaction.
New Jersey Boat Bill of Sale Requirements
Though New Jersey requires most watercraft to be registered and titled, these are the exceptions:
- Boats not based in New Jersey or vessels that operate for fewer than 180 days
- Foreign and U.S. public vessels
- Lifeboats on ships
- Non-motorized vessels are used exclusively on private property or small bodies of water, like ponds
- Non-motorized inflatable devices, such as surfboards, racing shells, dinghies, canoes, kayaks, and vessels fewer than 12 feet in length
- Dinghies used only for direct transportation between a vessel and the shore
That said, creating a boat bill of sale for your records is still a good idea.
Boat Title and Registration
Individuals may be charged a $25 penalty for not titling a boat within ten working days. Individuals must pick up a Boat Registration Application form from a local NJMVC location to register and title a vessel.
Along with that application, they must submit the following:
- A completed Universal Title Application
- A properly assigned Manufacturer’s Certificate of Ownership (MCO) or proof of ownership from the seller, such as their registration, along with a notarized bill of sale if the vehicle is coming from a state that does not require titles for boats
The lienholder’s name, address, and EIN must be submitted if the boat is financed.
Boat Registration Fees
Registration fees are based on boat size. Prices are as follows:
- Less than 16 feet $12
- 16 feet – 26 feet $28
- 26 feet – 40 feet $52
- 40 feet – 65 feet $80
- 65 feet or longer, $250
Does a Boat Bill of Sale Have to be Notarized in New Jersey?
While you don’t need to get a notarization for a bill of sale for a boat in New Jersey, this may be necessary if there’s no title. You’ll need this to get the title.
New Jersey Boat Bill of Sale Sample
Below, you can download a New Jersey boat bill of sale in PDF or Word format:
