If you buy or sell a jet ski, you should have a Jet Ski Bill of Sale for the sales transaction.
What is a Jet Ski Bill of Sale?
Similar to a vehicle bill of sale, a bill of sale for a jet ski provides proof of the transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer, along with the sale price and other information specific to the jet ski.
Details in a bill of sale are critical for insurance, taxes, registration, and licensing.
A jet ski bill of sale also serves as a binding contract in case of a legal dispute.
To protect your legal rights as a buyer or seller, you should understand when to use a jet ski bill of sale, what to consider for your jet ski registration, how to sell a jet ski, and what to include in your jet ski bill of sale.
When Should You Use a Jet Ski Bill of Sale?
Every state has different registration and documentation requirements for recreational or personal watercraft like jet skis.
In some states, you must present a signed or notarized jet ski bill of sale to prove that you own the personal watercraft.
The state may also use the bill of sale to establish the jet ski’s value for registration fees, sales tax, excise tax, and other financial obligations.
Even if your state does not require a bill of sale for the purchase and sale of your jet ski, you benefit from having a clear legal document to prove ownership.
Jet Ski Registration: What to Consider?
In most states, jet ski registration differs from passenger vehicle registration.
Some cities, towns, or municipalities have their requirements for inspections, documentation, licensing, taxes, and fees.
Review your state and local jet ski registration laws before using them in local waters.
To register your jet ski, you may need to provide the following details:
- Buyer’s name and address
- Seller’s name and address
- Amount of the sale
- Proof of inspection
- Jet ski description, including serial number or hull identification number, year, manufacturer, physical description, size, weight, and rating
- Signature of buyer and seller
- Notary signature (optional)
- Date of sale
A bill of sale for a jet ski provides these details all in one easy legal document.
If your jet ski comes with a trailer, you may need to complete a bill of sale and register the trailer separately.
How to Sell Your Jet Ski
If you are selling a jet ski, you can improve your chances of a higher-than-average sale price with the following steps:
Step 1 – Clean It and Get It Serviced
You will likely get more money for a jet ski that looks nice and runs smoothly.
Be sure to have your jet ski serviced by a qualified technician and request copies of the documentation.
You can sell the jet ski as-is, but you can negotiate a better price for a good-condition jet ski.
Step 2 – Decide on a Listing Price
Use an authoritative source like J.D. Power’s personal watercraft guide to determine the book value of your jet ski and decide on a fair and reasonable listing price.
Remember that some states base registration fees and taxes on the book value.
Step 3 – List Your Jet Ski
You can list your jet ski for sale on a variety of local and national sale sites, as well as watercraft-specific websites.
Some places you can list a jet ski include the following:
- PWC Trader
- Boat Trader
- Boats.com
- Bert’s Mega Mall
- Craigslist
- Facebook Marketplace
- eBay
Step 4 – Negotiate With Potential Buyers
As you receive calls and emails from interested parties, you can begin negotiating a fair price. Take your time—you do not have to accept the first offer.
Be sure to document the terms of the agreement thoroughly in writing.
If the buyer requires financing or a payment plan, document any payment arrangements with a promissory note, loan agreement, IOU, or another legally binding contract.
Step 5 – Sign a Bill of Sale
After you find a buyer, finalize the sale with a comprehensive jet ski bill of sale. The bill of sale becomes a binding contract once both parties sign.
Some states may require you to have the signatures notarized for registration and ownership transfers.
What to Include on a Jet Ski Bill of Sale?
To transfer to a new owner or register a jet ski, your bill of sale should include the following:
Identify the Seller and the Buyer
Add the full names of both the buyer and seller. Include the buyer’s and seller’s address and other contact information, such as email or phone number, if available.
Include Jet Ski Information
Describe the jet ski in detail, and include the following information:
- Make, model, manufacturer, and year
- Size and weight of the jet ski
- Color and distinctive markings
- Jet ski condition, including existing damage
- Hull identification number or serial number
- Trim level, rider aid functions, seating capacity, cruise control, and other features
Add any additional information you can use to identify the craft if an ownership dispute or other legal issue arises.
If the jet ski is being sold as-is, note it on the bill of sale.
Add the Selling Price
Indicate the purchase price on the jet ski bill of sale.
Make sure to fill this in thoroughly before you sign, and do not leave space to alter the selling price.
Date, Sign, and Witness the Form
When the bill of sale is complete, the buyer and seller should sign and date the form.
The sale is official as of the signing date, and the signed jet ski bill of sale provides a record of the transaction and proof of transfer of ownership on that date.
Your state may require the signature of a notary or witness in addition to those of the buyer and seller.
Check your state and local laws before you proceed.
Jet Ski Bill of Sale Sample
Below is an example of a jet ski bill of sale form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a boating license for a jet ski?
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, most states require mandatory boating safety education to operate a jet ski. Certain states place age limits on jet ski operations and require an adult with a boating license to accompany minors on jet skis. You can sign up for boating safety courses through the Boats U.S. Foundation or contact your state boating license agency for local resources.
How much is jet ski insurance?
Jet ski insurance rates differ depending on the following:
- Your location
- The size, age, and condition of the jet ski
- Your coverage level
Certain states require a certain level of liability insurance coverage. Be sure to check your state requirements when purchasing insurance for your jet ski.
Can I create a jet ski bill of sale online?
Yes! You can fill out an easy-to-use jet ski bill of sale online at LegalTemplates. Download the form, add your jet ski sale details, and print it for signatures.
