Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Buying and Selling a Vessel

The procedure for buying or selling, or otherwise acquiring, a vessel or motor is outlined here. The steps are essentially the same whether the “seller” is a marine dealer or an individual or whether the “buyer” is purchasing a new or pre-owned vessel.

• The seller completes the appropriate application form(s).
  • PWD 143, the blue-striped form, is used to buy or sell a new or used vessel.
  • PWD 144, the green-striped form, is used to buy or sell an outboard motor.
• The buyer reviews and signs the form(s), and the seller assigns the title(s) to the buyer (if titles have been issued).
• This procedure must be completed no later than 20 days from the date of purchase in order to avoid a penalty. The following items are submitted to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
  • Completed and signed blue and green application forms.
  • Assigned titles, bill of sale, or proof of registration (supporting documents, Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO), titles, etc.).
  • All required state fees and sales tax (listed on back of the forms). Note: Fees are based on the size of your vessel, so be sure you know the length before selling or buying a vessel.
• TPWD will send the buyer a new title and Certificate of Number in the buyer’s name.

Forms 143 and 144 can be obtained:

• On the Internet at www.tpwd.state.tx.us/fishboat/boat/forms/
• From marine dealers
• From any Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD) office.