Free Michigan Boat Bill of Sale
Michigan titles boats through the Secretary of State (same agency as cars) — unlike many states that use a separate DNR. The form is WR-11 instead of TR-11L. Standard 6% sales tax applies and no inspection required.
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Boats are sold with undisclosed liens far more often than cars. Our guide covers running a title search, decoding the HIN, separating boat and trailer titles, and what a Coast Guard document means for the transfer process. Read: Boat Bill of Sale: Complete Guide →
Michigan Boat Bill of Sale — What You Need to Know
Primary ID Field
HIN (Hull ID Number)
Sales Tax
6%
Title Required
Yes
Michigan titles all watercraft 20ft or longer (commercial or pleasure), and all vessels with permanently affixed engines regardless of length. Smaller non-powered boats register only.
Inspection
Not required
Sales Tax Details
Same 6% sales tax as cars, paid at title.
Michigan 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 TR-11L + plates-to-owner).
- Seller signs watercraft title over.
- Buyer completes WR-11 at Michigan SOS.
- Buyer pays 6% sales tax to SOS.
- Boats under 20ft without permanent engine: register only, no title.
Common Pitfalls
- Going to the DNR — Michigan boats title through the SOS, not a separate agency.
- Forgetting separate trailer transfer.
Pro Tip
MI boats: SOS (same as cars), WR-11 form, 6% tax, no inspection.
Michigan Boat Bill of Sale — FAQs
Where do I title a Michigan boat — DNR or SOS?
Michigan is one of the states where boats title through the Secretary of State (same agency as cars) rather than a separate DNR. The form is WR-11 instead of TR-11L, and the process is very similar.
What Michigan boats need titles?
Watercraft 20ft or longer, and any vessel with a permanently affixed engine (inboard, sterndrive) regardless of length, require Michigan titles. Smaller outboard-motor or non-powered boats register only.
Other Michigan Templates
🚘Vehicle Bill of Sale🚗Car Bill of Sale🚙Used Car Bill of Sale🏍️Motorcycle Bill of Sale🚛Trailer Bill of Sale🐴Horse Bill of Sale🏎️ATV Bill of Sale🔫Gun / Firearm Bill of Sale🏕️RV Bill of Sale📄General Bill of Sale🖨️Free Printable Bill of Sale📏Odometer Disclosure Bill of Sale⚠️As-Is Bill of Sale🎁Gift Bill of Sale