Michigan boat — quick answer
In Michigan, a boat bill of sale is recommended and notarization of the title transfer is not required. The state form used for titled vehicles is TR-207. Boats in Michigan may be registered through the DMV or a separate wildlife/parks agency — confirm with the Michigan SOS.
Is a boat bill of sale required in Michigan?
Recommended. A bill of sale (TR-207) is available but ownership transfers by signing the title.
Both parties sign the title; the buyer titles and registers at a Secretary of State branch. For boats specifically, registration authority can differ from cars — verify whether your vessel is handled by the Michigan SOS or a separate wildlife/parks agency.
Does a Michigan boat bill of sale need to be notarized?
Not required. No notarization required.
What to include on a Michigan 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 Michigan
- 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.
Both parties sign the title; the buyer titles and registers at a Secretary of State branch.
- 3Register with the Michigan SOS.
The buyer titles and registers the boat, bringing Bill of Sale. Confirm current fees on the official page.
Official sources
Requirements change and can vary by county. Confirm with the Michigan SOS before you sign. Not legal advice.
Michigan Boat Bill of Sale — FAQ
Is a boat bill of sale required in Michigan?
A bill of sale is recommended in Michigan. A bill of sale (TR-207) is available but ownership transfers by signing the title.
Does a Michigan boat bill of sale need to be notarized?
No. No notarization required.
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.