Louisiana Boat Bill of Sale Form
A Louisiana boat bill of sale form is used to privately sell a boat. It documents the names and addresses of the seller and buyer, information on the boat (including purchase price), and any other pertinent information regarding the sale.
The state only considers it eligible if it contains the parish, the names and signatures of the buyer and seller, the date of the sale, and a notary public seal of approval. It must also include the boat’s registration number (if applicable), the model year, the manufacturer (make), hull identification number (HIN), motor serial number, and sale prices of the vessel and motor.
|
What is a Louisiana Vessel Bill of Sale?
A Louisiana vessel bill of sale documents the sale of a boat between two (2) people. The buyer and seller must sign the form regardless of negotiations. A notary public, or two (2) witnesses, must watch the signing and check each person’s photo identification (ID). After observing the signatures, the third party must also include their printed name, signature, and date for authentication purposes (§ 32-705).
How to Register a Boat in Louisiana (5 Steps)
Residents have fifteen (15) days to title and register their boat from the purchase date. People residing outside the state can use their vessel for up to ninety (90) days. After this time, they must obtain a Louisiana registration and title.
Step 1 – Requirements
Louisiana jurisdiction mandates the registration and titling of boats and motors in the state. Exemptions include 1) sailboards, 2) sailboats twelve (12) feet or less long, and 3) vessels with documentation from the U.S. Coast Guard.
Step 2 – Inspection
In unique cases, boats require a certified inspection before applying for the title and registration. These scenarios include homemade ships, unreadable or lost hull identification numbers (HIN), incorrect HINs, and new vessels without a manufacturer’s identification code (MIC).
Residents must bring the vessel to an approved LDWF inspection station. A licensing staff member inspects the boat and provides their signature on an affidavit, authenticating the document. A notary public must observe the signing for the state to accept the form.
Step 3 – Register
Louisiana boat registrations happen by mail or in person. Residents should gather the required documents ahead of time to ensure the state does not turn them away.
Provide the Following:
|
Step 4 – Number + Decals
When the owner receives their personalized registration number and decals, they must display the information on their vessel.
Step 5 – Renew
Louisiana boat registrations last three (3) years after the issuance date. Owners can find the expiration date on their registration certificate. They must renew within sixty (60) days of the listed date. If they fail to renew on time, the state cancels their registration. As a result, they have to reapply as a new applicant.