Boat Title Transfer in New York
New York does not issue boat titles. New York State does not issue certificates of title for boats. Registration is required for all motorized vessels and sailboats over 18 feet, but there is no separate title document.
Hull Identification Number (HIN)
HIN required on registration applications. For vessels without a HIN, NYS DMV can assign a New York-specific hull number.
Required Documents in New York
Because New York does not issue titles, a bill of sale is the primary ownership document for a boat sold in New York. Keep all purchase documentation permanently.
US Coast Guard Documentation in New York
Federal Coast Guard documentation is the only way to obtain a title-equivalent document for a New York-based vessel. Federally documented vessels still require NY registration numbers to be displayed.
New York is one of approximately 8 states that does not issue boat titles. When buying a boat in NY, the bill of sale IS the proof of ownership — there is no title to sign over. Buyers should ensure the registration is current and the seller's name matches the registration. When selling to an out-of-state buyer, inform them that NY boats come without titles.
Boat Title FAQ — New York
New York does not issue boat titles. New York State does not issue certificates of title for boats. Registration is required for all motorized vessels and sailboats over 18 feet, but there is no separate title document. A bill of sale is the primary proof of ownership.
In New York, boat title transfers are handled by the New York DMV. You need Completed MV-82B (Vessel Registration Application), Proof of purchase (bill of sale) with HIN, Previous state registration if the vessel was registered out-of-state. Processing takes 5–15 Business Days. Because New York does not issue titles, a bill of sale is the primary ownership document for a boat sold in New York. Keep all purchase documentation permanently.
Yes — Federal Coast Guard documentation is the only way to obtain a title-equivalent document for a New York-based vessel. Federally documented vessels still require NY registration numbers to be displayed.
The boat title fee in New York is N/A (no boat title in NY). No title fee because NY does not issue boat titles. Registration fees are based on length: $24–$80 annually.