Selling or purchasing a watercraft? Let us help make your titling experience as quick and efficient as possible!
What do I need to know?
- No person is permitted to sell, purchase or otherwise acquire any of the following in Ohio without an Ohio certificate of title:
- An outboard motor of 10 horsepower or greater;
- A watercraft 14 feet or greater in length;
- A watercraft less than 14 feet in length with a permanently affixed mechanical means of propulsion of 10 horsepower or greater.
- All boats require a 12-digit HIN.
If your boat does not contain a 12- character hull, please contact the External linkOhio Division of Watercraft.
- Boat trailers must weigh at least 4,000 lbs or more to be titled in Ohio. Per External link ORC §1548.03 & External linkORC §1547.65.
What do I need to do to sell my boat or outboard motor?
Seller must complete the assignment of ownership portion on the back of the title in the presence of a Notary Public before presenting it to the buyer. If the watercraft and/or motor was not previously titled, the seller must present proof of ownership to our office and establish an Ohio title in the seller’s name prior to the sale.
Call 614.525.3090 for details.
What do I need to bring to transfer a boat or outboard motor into my name?
- Physical Certificate of Title
Dual ownership requires both parties to be present unless a power of attorney is provided. Social Security numbers for all parties are required. Photocopies of title are not accepted.
- A valid government issued drivers license or identification card.
- $15.00 title fee*
*add $1.00 fee per notarization. We accept cash, check or credit card payments (with a 3% fee). Please make checks payable to: Franklin County Clerk of Courts.
Opens in new windowTitling Your Watercraft (PDF)