

Initial registration must be done at a local Department of Natural Resources (DNR) location. Registration may be renewed online, unless the buyer is not current on taxes owed on the vessel, in which case it must be done at a DNR regional office. Boat registrations previously endured for three years, but all boats purchased after Jan. A buyer has sixty (60) days during which the decals of the previous registrant may be used before obtaining new registration, but should begin the registration process within thirty (30) days to avoid late fees. For sales between private parties, the buyer will need to initiate the registration process. If buying a boat from a dealership, the dealer may file registration paperwork on the buyer’s behalf. Table of ContentsĪll motorboats and sailboats must be registered with the state’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in order to operate in South Carolina waters. Signing Requirements – Both the buyer and the seller should sign the bill of sale, and the document should be notarized. must be submitted to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). The tax is 5 of the purchase price up to 6,000.00. The information contained herein is based on information reported to SCDNR by owners of record, law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, and county tax authorities. C) When purchasing a watercraft from an individual, you are required to pay Casual excise Tax. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources makes this buyers aide available as a service to the citizens of South Carolina. B) BILL OF SALe completed, signed and dated. Law prohibits the sale or purchase of watercraft without a valid title issued in the seller's name to assign over to the purchaser at the time of sale. It must be signed, notarized and include the additional 5.00 fee. The bill of sale may be required for registration or other state applications. Use a South Carolina vehicle bill of sale form to buy or sell a motor. the certified true Bill of Sale found on back of application.

The bill of sale will contain information about the buyer and the seller, a description of the boat, and the terms of the transaction. It is part of the state registration process and is required to obtain the decals needed to operate boat in the state. A South Carolina boat bill of sale is a legal document that records the transfer of ownership of a vessel.
