Maine boat — quick answer
In Maine, a boat bill of sale is recommended and notarization of the title transfer is not required. The state form used for titled vehicles is Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale. Boats in Maine may be registered through the DMV or a separate wildlife/parks agency — confirm with the Maine BMV.
Is a boat bill of sale required in Maine?
Recommended. A bill of sale supports the title transfer and sales-tax assessment.
Seller signs the title (required for newer vehicles); the buyer titles and registers through a municipal office and the BMV. For boats specifically, registration authority can differ from cars — verify whether your vessel is handled by the Maine BMV or a separate wildlife/parks agency.
Does a Maine boat bill of sale need to be notarized?
Not required. No notarization for a standard transfer.
What to include on a Maine 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 Maine
- 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.
Seller signs the title (required for newer vehicles); the buyer titles and registers through a municipal office and the BMV.
- 3Register with the Maine BMV.
The buyer titles and registers the boat, bringing Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale. Confirm current fees on the official page.
Official sources
Requirements change and can vary by county. Confirm with the Maine BMV before you sign. Not legal advice.
Maine Boat Bill of Sale — FAQ
Is a boat bill of sale required in Maine?
A bill of sale is recommended in Maine. A bill of sale supports the title transfer and sales-tax assessment.
Does a Maine boat bill of sale need to be notarized?
No. No notarization for a standard transfer.
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.