It's The Law: Before Going Out on Your Vessel

Buying and Selling a Vessel

The procedure for buying or selling a new or pre-owned vessel or motor is essentially the same.

• The seller completes the appropriate application forms.
  • Form 143, the blue-striped form, is used to buy or sell a vessel.
  • Form 144, the green-striped form, is used to buy or sell an outboard motor.
• Forms 143 and 144 can be obtained:
  • On the Internet at: www.tpwd.state.tx.us/fishboat/boat/forms/
  • At marine dealerships
  • At any of the TPWD offices
• The buyer reviews and signs the form(s), and the seller assigns title(s) to buyer (if titles have been issued).
• This procedure must be completed no later than 20 days from date of purchase in order to avoid a penalty. The following items are submitted to TPWD.
  • Completed and signed Forms 143 and 144.
  • 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 know the length before selling or buying a vessel.
• TPWD will send to the buyer a new title and Certificate of Number in the buyer's name.

Schedule of Fees