Massachusetts Boat, RV & Powersports Guide

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

Title Required

❌ No

Registration only

Bill of Sale

✅ Required

For all transfers

Sales Tax

6.25%

On boat purchases

State Agency

Official Site ↗

Title & Registration in Massachusetts

Massachusetts does not issue titles for recreational boats. Instead, vessels are registered with the state. The registration certificate and bill of sale serve as proof of ownership.

Massachusetts does not title boats. Register with MassDMF and pay 6.25% sales/use tax to DOR within 20 days.

Lien Search in Massachusetts

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

Massachusetts Official Lien Search ↗

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

Bill of Sale Requirements

Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts

Sales Tax on Boats & Powersports in Massachusetts

Massachusetts charges 6.25% 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 Massachusetts agency for the full rate.

USCG Documentation in Massachusetts

Massachusetts coastal and Cape Cod vessels are frequently USCG documented. The state does not issue boat titles.

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

Apply for USCG Documentation →

Frequently Asked Questions — Massachusetts

Does Massachusetts require a boat title?▾

No — Massachusetts does not issue titles for recreational boats. You register the vessel instead.

What is the boat sales tax rate in Massachusetts?▾

The sales tax rate on boats in Massachusetts is 6.25%.

Is a bill of sale required in Massachusetts?▾

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

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

Use the official Massachusetts lien search at https://www.mass.gov/orgs/registry-of-motor-vehicles. For USCG-documented vessels, also check the NVDC at nvdc.uscg.mil.