California Boat, RV & Powersports Guide

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

Title Required

✅ Yes

State issues boat title

Bill of Sale

✅ Required

For all transfers

Sales Tax

7.25%

On boat purchases

State Agency

Official Site ↗

Title & Registration in California

California 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 REG 343 (Application for Title or Registration) with the foreign title, proof of sales tax paid, and smog (if applicable) within 20 days of purchase.

Lien Search in California

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

California Official Lien Search ↗

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

Bill of Sale Requirements

California 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 California

Sales Tax on Boats & Powersports in California

California charges 7.25% 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 California agency for the full rate.

USCG Documentation in California

Vessels on San Francisco Bay, coastal waters, or used commercially may be USCG documented. State registration is still required for operation on California waters.

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, California may still require state registration for operation on in-state waters.

Apply for USCG Documentation →

Frequently Asked Questions — California

Does California require a boat title?▾

Yes — California requires a certificate of title for boats and personal watercraft. Apply at: https://www.dbw.ca.gov/

What is the boat sales tax rate in California?▾

The sales tax rate on boats in California is 7.25%.

Is a bill of sale required in California?▾

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

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

Use the official California lien search at https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-registration/. For USCG-documented vessels, also check the NVDC at nvdc.uscg.mil.