Arkansas Boat, RV & Powersports Guide

Private-party title transfer, registration, lien search, sales tax, and USCG documentation rules for Arkansas.

Title Required

✅ Yes

State issues boat title

Bill of Sale

✅ Required

For all transfers

Sales Tax

6.50%

On boat purchases

State Agency

Official Site ↗

Title & Registration in Arkansas

Arkansas requires a certificate of title for boats and personal watercraft. When you purchase a vessel, the seller must sign the title over to you. You then have a limited window to apply for a new title in your name.

Submit the current title, completed application, and sales tax payment to any Arkansas revenue office within 30 days.

Lien Search in Arkansas

Before completing any private-party purchase, run a lien search to confirm the vessel has no outstanding loans or encumbrances.

Arkansas Official Lien Search ↗

For USCG-documented vessels, also search the National Vessel Documentation Center (NVDC).

Bill of Sale Requirements

Arkansas requires a bill of sale to transfer title. Your bill of sale should include:

Hull Identification Number (HIN) or VIN
Make, model, and year of the vessel
Full legal names and addresses of buyer and seller
Purchase price and date of sale
Odometer reading (motorhomes/RVs)
Signatures of both parties
Notarization if required by Arkansas

Sales Tax on Boats & Powersports in Arkansas

Arkansas charges 6.50% sales tax on boat and powersports purchases. Sales tax is typically collected when you register the vessel with the state. Some counties add additional local taxes. Check with your local Arkansas agency for the full rate.

USCG Documentation in Arkansas

USCG documentation is optional but useful for vessels used on the Arkansas and Mississippi rivers.

USCG-documented vessels carry a Certificate of Documentation (COD) issued by the National Vessel Documentation Center. This is recognized internationally and is preferred by lenders for boats over 26 ft. Even with USCG documentation, Arkansas may still require state registration for operation on in-state waters.

Apply for USCG Documentation →

Frequently Asked Questions — Arkansas

Does Arkansas require a boat title?▾

Yes — Arkansas requires a certificate of title for boats and personal watercraft. Apply at: https://www.agfc.com/en/resources/boating/

What is the boat sales tax rate in Arkansas?▾

The sales tax rate on boats in Arkansas is 6.50%.

Is a bill of sale required in Arkansas?▾

Yes — Arkansas requires a bill of sale to transfer boat ownership.

How do I search for liens on a boat in Arkansas?▾

Use the official Arkansas lien search at https://www.dfa.arkansas.gov/motor-vehicle/. For USCG-documented vessels, also check the NVDC at nvdc.uscg.mil.