Free Maryland Boat Bill of Sale
Maryland treats boats better than cars on every axis that costs money: vessels title through the Department of Natural Resources at a 5% excise (a point below the 6% vehicle rate), the tax CAPS at $15,700 per vessel — a genuine luxury-boat incentive that kicks in above $314,000 of value — and boats skip the one-time safety inspection that makes Maryland car transfers expensive. The transfer form is B-119 at a DNR office; the trailer beneath the boat pays the ordinary vehicle rules at the MVA (VR-005, the full 6%, and yes, its inspection). Split the package price accordingly.
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Maryland Boat Bill of Sale — What You Need to Know
Sales Tax Details
Maryland charges a 5.0% Vessel Excise Tax (lower than the 6% vehicle tax) capped at $15,700 per vessel. Paid to MD DNR.
Maryland Boat Sale — Step-by-Step Checklist
- Verify HIN on transom.
- Complete bill of sale with HIN, length, year/make, motor serial, sale price.
- Trailer separate — uses MVA + VR-005 + 6% Excise.
- Seller signs MD DNR vessel title over.
- Buyer completes Form B-119 at MD DNR office.
- Buyer pays 5% Vessel Excise (capped at $15,700) to MD DNR.
Common Pitfalls
- Going to MVA — boats go through DNR.
- Paying 6% rate — boats are 5%, capped.
Pro Tip
Maryland boats: the DNR's B-119 at 5% (capped at $15,700, no inspection) while the trailer pays the MVA's full 6% plus inspection — the rare state where the boat is the cheap half of the package.