South Carolina Boat Bill of Sale
To operate in South Carolina waters, all forms of vessels (motorboats and sailboats) are subject to registration by the DNR. If a buyer purchases a boat from a local dealer, such a dealer can file registration documentation for them. For private sales, the buyer is to carry out the registration process personally.
Sixty days is the required period to utilize the previous owner's decals before getting fresh registration but should initiate the process within thirty (30) days to prevent late costs. Previously, boat registrations were valid for three years, but any boats purchased after Jan. 1, 2020, will be valid for one year. Renewals may be completed on the internet unless the purchaser is not current on boat taxes, in which case they must be completed at the regional location of the DNR.
Registration must be completed in person at a local Department of Natural Resources (DNR) office.
Documents Required
• The Watercraft also known as the Outboard Motor Application document
. The Bill of Sale form
• Signed proof showing transfer of ownership (title) from a former owner or, the evidence of the manufacturer's statement of origin document for a brand new purchase
• A drawing or photograph of the boat's identification number of the hull and the serial number if the boat was formerly (owned) titled in a different state • A driver's license or state identity card • Proof of payment of all registration fees
• For boats already registered in South Carolina, proof of payment of all taxes in the form of a property tax receipt from the buyer's county of residence
After the registration procedure is complete, boats that were previously titled in another state or that were purchased new from a South Carolina dealer will be assessed for tax.