A Michigan boat bill of sale reports the terms of a transaction involving the purchase and sale of a motorboat, sailboat, canoe, or other vessel. It confirms that a seller collected a designated sum of money in exchange for ownership of their boat. A well-composed bill of sale states the purchase price, date of sale, and the names and addresses of the participating parties. It also identifies the boat’s hull ID number, make, model, and engine information. If buying a motorized boat, the buyer will need to register the vessel before operating it on public waterways. Certain boats are exempt from registration, such as unpowered kayaks and canoes used for non-commercial purposes.

Michigan Boat Registration

In order to title and register a boat, the owner must submit the following to the Michigan Secretary of State:

1. Completed and signed Application for Michigan Watercraft Title (Form WR-11L).
2. Current registration or, if the registration is missing, a bill of sale.
3. The original title assigned to the new owner, unless no title exists.
4. Payment for the titling and registration fees.

Once issued, the registration will remain valid for three (3) years, expiring on March 31st of the last year of validity. The buyer must maintain proof of registration on the vessel by displaying their decal in accordance with Michigan’s state guidelines.