Boat Title Requirements Checker

Find out if your boat needs a title — check requirements, fees, and documents for your state.

Man reviewing boat title and registration documents at desk with laptop

Check Your Boat Title Requirements

Understanding whether your vessel needs a title is one of the first steps in the boat ownership process. Unlike vehicle titles, which are universally required across all states, boat title requirements vary significantly from state to state. Use our free tool below to instantly check the title requirements for your specific vessel and state.

Select your state, vessel type, and enter the vessel length to see whether a title is required, conditionally required, or not needed. The tool also displays the applicable title fees, required documents, and links to your state's official registration agency.

Most states require a Certificate of Title for motorized vessels, but more than a dozen states rely solely on registration to establish ownership — including Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Kansas, Mississippi, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Wyoming. Even within states that require titles, there are often exemptions for certain vessel types — such as non-motorized boats under a specific length, vessels used exclusively on private waters, or USCG-documented vessels.

If you are purchasing a used boat, the title transfer process is especially important. A clean title ensures the seller has legal authority to sell the vessel and that there are no outstanding liens or encumbrances. Our tool helps you understand what to expect before you begin the title transfer process.

Check Title Requirements for Your Vessel

Title Requirement

Select a state to check if your boat needs a title.

Understanding Boat Titles in the United States

States That Require Boat Titles

The majority of US states require a Certificate of Title for motorized vessels. The title serves as the primary proof of ownership and is essential for buying, selling, and financing a boat. In these states, you cannot legally sell or transfer a vessel without a valid title in the seller's name.

Title requirements typically apply to all motorized vessels regardless of size, though some states set minimum length or horsepower thresholds. Personal watercraft (jet skis) are generally subject to the same title requirements as motorboats in states that require titles.

States Without Boat Title Requirements

More than a dozen states do not issue or require a separate boat title. These include Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Kansas, Mississippi, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Wyoming. In these states, vessel ownership is established through registration records and supporting documents like a Bill of Sale or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin. While this simplifies the transfer process, it can make ownership verification and dispute resolution more complex — a key reason to always obtain a proper Bill of Sale for any purchase.

Why Titles Matter for Used Boat Buyers

If you are buying a used boat in a title state, always insist on seeing and verifying the title before completing the purchase. A legitimate title should be in the seller's name, free of any liens or encumbrances, and contain the correct Hull Identification Number (HIN). Never purchase a vessel from someone who cannot produce the title — this is a significant red flag that could indicate the boat is stolen, has outstanding loans, or has unresolved legal issues.

For more information on verifying boat titles and checking for liens, see our Boat Lien Check Guide.

USCG Documentation vs. State Title

Vessels documented with the US Coast Guard have a federal Certificate of Documentation that serves as a form of national title. USCG-documented vessels are generally exempt from state title requirements but may still need state registration for operating on state waterways. Documentation is available for vessels measuring 5 net tons or more (approximately 25 feet or longer).

For details on USCG documentation, see our USCG Documentation Guide.

Data Sources

All title requirement data is sourced from official state DMV, Department of Natural Resources, and Fish & Wildlife agency websites. Data is verified and updated for the 2026 registration year. While we strive for accuracy, title requirements can change when state laws are updated. Always confirm with your state agency before making important purchasing decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Boat Titles

What is a boat title and do I need one?
A boat title (Certificate of Title) is a legal document that establishes ownership of a vessel, similar to a car title. Most US states require titles for motorized vessels. However, more than a dozen states — including Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Kansas, Mississippi, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Tennessee, and Wyoming — do not issue separate boat titles. In those states, registration and a bill of sale establish ownership.
What is the difference between a boat title and registration?
A boat title proves you own the vessel (like a deed), while registration is your permit to legally operate on public waterways. Registration must be renewed periodically (usually annually or biennially), while a title remains valid until the vessel is sold or transferred.
How much does a boat title cost?
Title fees vary by state, typically ranging from $5 to $30 for a new title. Title transfer fees (when buying a used boat) are usually similar or slightly higher. Some states charge additional fees for lien recording if the vessel is financed.
Do I need a title for a kayak or canoe?
In most states, kayaks, canoes, and other non-motorized vessels do not require titles. Title requirements primarily apply to motorized vessels. However, some states may require titles for larger non-motorized vessels (typically over 16 feet). Use the checker above to see your specific state requirements.
What documents do I need to get a boat title?
Common required documents include: the Manufacturer Certificate of Origin (new boats), the previous title signed by the seller (used boats), a Bill of Sale, your valid photo ID, and a completed title application form. Some states also require a hull identification number (HIN) verification.
How do I transfer a boat title to a new owner?
To transfer a boat title, the seller must sign the back of the title (endorsement), and both parties typically complete a Bill of Sale. The buyer then submits the signed title, application for new title, and applicable fees to the state agency. For detailed steps, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.

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