Transferring a boat title sounds simple, at least until you’re five forms deep and stuck in line at the DMV, wondering what you missed.
The truth? Finding your way around Florida’s title transfer process is not always simple, especially if you have never done it before.
But if you’re in Broward County, there’s a better way.
We’ll walk you through it, step-by-step, so you can get your boat legally yours without the wait, the stress, or the red tape.
1. Complete the Title Transfer Section
Every Florida vessel title has a section labeled “Transfer of Title by Seller.” This must be filled out completely, with
- The buyer’s full name and address
- Selling price and date of sale
- Odometer reading (if required)
- Signatures from both the buyer and the seller
Mistakes or missing information can void the transfer; therefore, it is essential to review this section carefully before proceeding. If the vessel is coming from out of state and the title format differs, you may need to complete additional forms or provide supplemental documentation.
2. Submit the Required Documents
To process the transfer, you’ll need to bring the following:
- The completed title with signatures
- A valid form of ID (Florida driver’s license or passport)
- A bill of sale (recommended, though not required)
- Proof of Florida insurance (not mandatory for vessels, but good to have)
For boats coming from another state, be prepared to verify the hull ID number or provide registration history.
3. Pay the Fees and Taxes
The state of Florida charges a title transfer fee of around $75.75, plus a registration fee based on the vessel’s length. As a general estimate:
- Less than 12 feet: $10.25
- 12–16 feet: $21
- Larger vessels: Fees increase with size
You will also need to pay a 6% sales tax on the purchase price, unless you qualify for an exemption (such as a gift between family members or a trade-in).
4. Submit the Application
Once your documents are in order, you can apply either in person or online via the FLHSMV portal. Keep in mind:
- Standard title processing takes 1–2 weeks
- Expedited same-day processing is available for an additional fee (usually around $10)
5. Display the Registration Properly
You will receive a registration number and decal for your boat once your title is approved and the vessel is registered. These must be:
- Affixed to each side of the bow
- Clearly visible above the waterline
- Displayed according to Florida’s lettering and spacing rules
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the 30-day window for title transfer costs you a $20 late fee.
- Using unauthorized services may result in inflated fees or incorrect paperwork.
- Skipping VIN or hull ID verification for out-of-state vessels can delay the transfer process.
Want to Skip the Guesswork?
If you’d rather avoid the paperwork pileup or long lines at the DMV, we can handle the entire transfer for you quickly and professionally. We are an authorized private courier specializing in title transfers for vehicles, motorcycles, and vessels in Broward County and the entire State of Florida.
You bring us the basics, and we’ll handle the rest!
Auto Tags of East Broward is your best choice of service provider to get your car assessed for the right title – contact us to get your car title in Florida! There’s no point in wasting your time at the East Broward DMV when you can stop by East Broward Auto Tags today. We offer everything you need when it comes to East Broward tag renewals and East Broward tag and title services. We are a premier East Broward tag agency. Stop by today, call us, or check out our website. We also have an online renewals page here.
Check out these other great resources to learn more about the basics of getting a replacement car title:
Resource 1 | Resource 2 | Resource 3
