Minnesota boat — quick answer
In Minnesota, a boat bill of sale is recommended and notarization of the title transfer is not required. Boats in Minnesota may be registered through the DMV or a separate wildlife/parks agency — confirm with the Minnesota DVS.
Is a boat bill of sale required in Minnesota?
Recommended. Ownership transfers on the title; a bill of sale is a useful sale record.
Seller completes the title assignment; the buyer titles and registers through DVS or a deputy registrar. For boats specifically, registration authority can differ from cars — verify whether your vessel is handled by the Minnesota DVS or a separate wildlife/parks agency.
Does a Minnesota boat bill of sale need to be notarized?
Not required. A standard private transfer does not require notarization (lien releases can be an exception).
What to include on a Minnesota 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 Minnesota
- 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 completes the title assignment; the buyer titles and registers through DVS or a deputy registrar.
- 3Register with the Minnesota DVS.
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 Minnesota DVS before you sign. Not legal advice.
Minnesota Boat Bill of Sale — FAQ
Is a boat bill of sale required in Minnesota?
A bill of sale is recommended in Minnesota. Ownership transfers on the title; a bill of sale is a useful sale record.
Does a Minnesota boat bill of sale need to be notarized?
No. A standard private transfer does not require notarization (lien releases can be an exception).
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.