Boat Transfer – What you need to know

We want to make your visit to the Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office a pleasant experience.  This is general information to assist you in processing your boat transfer. For an estimate of fees, visit our boat fees page.

Don't want to spend time waiting? Schedule an appointment! You will receive a coupon for a free car wash. After reading all the instructions below to make sure you have all the paperwork you need, you can call to schedule an appointment at (941) 741-4800.

Required Items to title a boat:

• The original title or certificate/statement of origin: Both the buyer and seller must properly complete the “Transfer of Title by Seller” section on the title.  It must include printed names and signatures of buyer(s) and seller(s), selling price, and date of sale.  NOTE: Cross-outs, white-out, alterations, or erasures may void the title.  (Click here for example)
• Proper method of payment: Title transactions in our office can be paid for with cash, check, certified funds or debit card.  Credit cards and “starter” checks are not accepted.
• Identification: All purchasers* must be present and must bring with them a valid US driver license / ID card. If you don't have a US driver license / ID card, we can also accept a US or foreign passport, or Canadian driver license / ID card. If an owner cannot be present, consider using a Power of Attorney form to complete the transaction; you must have a copy of the absent applicant's state-issued driver license / identification card or passport.
• You will also be required to pay sales tax, if applicable.

* Businesses are required to submit documentation showing they are a valid business; typically, this can be done most easily with a printout from SunBiz.  If the individual acting on behalf of the business is not listed as an officer, director, or registered agent on SunBiz, they must also submit, on letterhead, a letter that authorizes them to act on behalf of the business. 

Did you purchase a boat, trailer, and motor? You may qualify for a partial sales tax exemption; see our complete rig FAQ for more information. Visit our trailer page for information registering your trailer.

NEW!  Are you selling a motor vehicle, boat, or mobile home?

Effective July 1, 2009, it is now required for an owner or co-owner who has transferred or sold a motor vehicle to notify the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) within 30 days after the sale or transfer to satisfy the requirement for limitation of liability.  This can be done with a Notice of Sale or by detaching and completing the top 3rd of the Florida title, above the perforation, and mailing to the DHSMV at the address listed on the form.