Ohio Boat, RV & Powersports Guide

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

Title Required

✅ Yes

State issues boat title

Bill of Sale

✅ Required

For all transfers

Sales Tax

5.75%

On boat purchases

State Agency

Official Site ↗

Title & Registration in Ohio

Ohio 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.

Apply at a county BMV title office within 30 days. Bring the out-of-state title, Ohio title application, and proof of sales tax payment.

Lien Search in Ohio

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

Ohio Official Lien Search ↗

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

Bill of Sale Requirements

Ohio 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 Ohio

Sales Tax on Boats & Powersports in Ohio

Ohio charges 5.75% 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 Ohio agency for the full rate.

USCG Documentation in Ohio

Lake Erie and the Ohio River support USCG-documented vessels; documentation is common for boats over 26 ft.

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

Apply for USCG Documentation →

Frequently Asked Questions — Ohio

Does Ohio require a boat title?▾

Yes — Ohio requires a certificate of title for boats and personal watercraft. Apply at: https://ohiodnr.gov/buy-and-apply/hunting-fishing-boating/boating-watercraft

What is the boat sales tax rate in Ohio?▾

The sales tax rate on boats in Ohio is 5.75%.

Is a bill of sale required in Ohio?▾

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

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

Use the official Ohio lien search at https://www.bmv.ohio.gov/. For USCG-documented vessels, also check the NVDC at nvdc.uscg.mil.