Missouri boat — quick answer
In Missouri, a boat bill of sale is recommended and notarization of the title transfer is situational. The state form used for titled vehicles is Form 1957. Boats in Missouri may be registered through the DMV or a separate wildlife/parks agency — confirm with the Missouri DOR.
Is a boat bill of sale required in Missouri?
Recommended. A bill of sale (Form 1957) documents the sale; the seller must also file a Notice of Sale within 30 days.
Seller assigns the title; the buyer titles and registers within 30 days at a license office. For boats specifically, registration authority can differ from cars — verify whether your vessel is handled by the Missouri DOR or a separate wildlife/parks agency.
Does a Missouri boat bill of sale need to be notarized?
Situational (situational). Notarization applies only to major-component proof on rebuilt vehicles or when DOR specifically requests it.
What to include on a Missouri 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 Missouri
- 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 assigns the title; the buyer titles and registers within 30 days at a license office.
- 3File a notice of sale / release of liability.
The seller files Notice of Sale or Transfer (Form 5049) — file within 30 days to remove liability.
- 4Register with the Missouri DOR.
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 Missouri DOR before you sign. Not legal advice.
Missouri Boat Bill of Sale — FAQ
Is a boat bill of sale required in Missouri?
A bill of sale is recommended in Missouri. A bill of sale (Form 1957) documents the sale; the seller must also file a Notice of Sale within 30 days.
Does a Missouri boat bill of sale need to be notarized?
Sometimes. Notarization applies only to major-component proof on rebuilt vehicles or when DOR specifically requests it.
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.