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San Diego, California

San Diego Boat Bill of Sale Requirements

Complete requirements checklist for a boat bill of sale in San Diego, California (Form REG 135). Includes exact fees, notarization rules, and where to file at the DMV San Diego – Clairemont Mesa Office.

Title Transfer Fee

$15.00

Sales Tax Rate

7.75%

Notarization

Not Required

Required Fields — San Diego Boat Bill of Sale

All of the following must appear on a valid boat bill of sale in San Diego, California per Form REG 135:

  • Full legal name and current address of seller
  • Full legal name and current address of buyer
  • Agreed sale price (in numerals and words)
  • Date of sale
  • Boat year, make, model, and body style
  • HIN (Hull Identification Number)
  • Signature of seller
  • Signature of buyer

Notarization in San Diego: Not Required

California does not require notarization for a boat bill of sale. California does not require notarization. Seller must sign the title and submit a Notice of Transfer (REG 138) within 5 days of sale. Both parties simply sign and date the completed form in the presence of each other.

Where to File — San Diego Title Office

Office

DMV San Diego – Clairemont Mesa Office

Address

4375 Derrick Dr, San Diego, CA 92117

Phone

(800) 777-0133

Hours

Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Thu until 6:00 PM)

Additional requirements in San Diego County:

  • Submit Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (REG 138) to CA DMV within 5 days of sale
  • Seller signs title over to buyer; buyer has 10 days to transfer title at DMV
  • Smog certificate required for most vehicles older than 4 model years
  • Report of Sale form (REG 343) available as alternative to written bill of sale

What to Bring to the CA DMV

  • 1Completed, signed boat bill of sale
  • 2Boat title signed over by seller on the back
  • 3Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport)
  • 4Payment for title transfer fee: $15.00
  • 5Payment for sales tax (7.75% of sale price)

FAQ — Boat Bill of Sale Requirements in San Diego

What are the required fields on a boat bill of sale in San Diego?
A valid boat bill of sale in San Diego, California must include both parties' full legal names and addresses, sale date, agreed sale price, HIN, year, make, model, and signatures of buyer and seller.
What is the title transfer fee for a boat in San Diego?
The title transfer fee in San Diego County is $15.00. The boat sales tax rate is 7.75%. California state base 7.25% + San Diego County district tax 0.50%
Is notarization required for a boat bill of sale in San Diego?
No. California does not require notarization. Seller must sign the title and submit a Notice of Transfer (REG 138) within 5 days of sale.
Where do I file a boat title transfer in San Diego?
File the title transfer at the DMV San Diego – Clairemont Mesa Office, 4375 Derrick Dr, San Diego, CA 92117. Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Thu until 6:00 PM). Phone: (800) 777-0133.

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