A Texas boat bill of sale is required for any ownership transfer. A boat’s trailer is handled through the local county tax office and must be separated from the price of the ship.
Texas bills of sale for boats and other marine vessels must have form PWD 143/144 completed and signed with the price, sale date, and trade-in information. There must be a receipt with the price, sale date, description of the boat and motor, the buyer’s name, and the seller’s signature.
Lastly, the back of the TPWD title needs the sale price, the buyer’s name, and the seller’s signature on the title front.
Texas Boat Bill of Sale Requirements
You must include a bill of sale for any boat or vessel, as specified on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) website. Alternatively, you may file a Form PWD 143 application or complete the back portion of the title. All must feature the following:
- The date of sale
- The sales price (not including the trailer)
- A detailed description of the vessel or boat
- The make, serial number, and model year of the vessel
- The purchaser’s name(s)
- The seller’s signature(s)
Does a Boat Bill of Sale Have to be Notarized in Texas?
While Texas doesn’t require a notary stamp to be valid and legal, having essential documents notarized is always a good idea.
After Purchasing a Vessel
For sellers:
- Complete Form PWD 143, found online or at any TPWD field office or marine dealership.
- Assign the title to the buyer(s).
For buyers:
- Sign Form PWD 143 and send it along with the bill of sale to the TPWD within 20 days of the date of purchase to avoid penalties.
- Pay all state fees and sales tax as indicated by your vessel’s length.
- Await the new title, along with a unique Certificate of Number.
Texas Boat Bill of Sale Sample
Below, you can download a TX boat bill of sale in PDF or Word format:
