Alabama boat — quick answer
In Alabama, a boat bill of sale is recommended and notarization of the title transfer is not required. Boats in Alabama may be registered through the DMV or a separate wildlife/parks agency — confirm with the ALDOR.
Is a boat bill of sale required in Alabama?
Recommended. A bill of sale is recommended as a sale record, but ownership transfers through the assigned title.
The seller assigns the existing title to the buyer; the buyer applies for a new title through a Designated Agent (usually the county licensing office). For boats specifically, registration authority can differ from cars — verify whether your vessel is handled by the ALDOR or a separate wildlife/parks agency.
Does a Alabama boat bill of sale need to be notarized?
Not required. ALDOR confirms the assignment of a title or MSO is not required to be notarized.
What to include on a Alabama boat bill of sale
- Buyer and seller names and addresses
- Year, make, model, and length
- Hull Identification Number (HIN) — 12 characters
- Motor details (make, horsepower, serial number)
- Whether a trailer is included
- Price, date, and signatures
How to transfer a boat in Alabama
- 1Complete the bill of sale and title assignment.
Record the buyer, seller, price, and date. Both parties sign and date.
- 2Hand over the signed title.
The seller assigns the existing title to the buyer; the buyer applies for a new title through a Designated Agent (usually the county licensing office).
- 3Register with the ALDOR.
The buyer titles and registers the boat. Confirm current fees on the official page.
Official sources
Requirements change and can vary by county. Confirm with the ALDOR before you sign. Not legal advice.
Alabama Boat Bill of Sale — FAQ
Is a boat bill of sale required in Alabama?
A bill of sale is recommended in Alabama. A bill of sale is recommended as a sale record, but ownership transfers through the assigned title.
Does a Alabama boat bill of sale need to be notarized?
No. ALDOR confirms the assignment of a title or MSO is not required to be notarized.
What is a HIN on a boat bill of sale?
The Hull Identification Number is a 12-character code unique to the boat, similar to a VIN on a car. It is required to register the vessel and should be copied exactly.
Do I need a separate bill of sale for the boat trailer and motor?
The motor is usually described on the boat bill of sale. A trailer often has its own VIN and may need its own bill of sale and registration — use our trailer bill of sale for that.
Is a bill of sale proof of ownership?
Generally no. For titled property like a car or boat, the title is what proves ownership. A bill of sale proves that a sale happened and records the price, date, and terms — it supports the title transfer but does not replace it. For untitled property (furniture, equipment, electronics), the signed bill of sale is usually the main proof of ownership.