hey, i just found a boat that i am looking to get titled and get tags for and whatever else i need. problem is that i am buying the boat and the boat only. there is no paperwork of any kind or titles of any kind to go with it...

how much of a hastle is this going to be? any idea where i should start?

its a small vhull jonboat with only a trolling motor on it for now if that matters.

thanks
eric

All I did on mine was get a bill of sale and applied for a lost title. Not really that hard to do. Does it still have the serial # on it?

Try calling the local TPWD office, or do a search to look at their website. It gives all the requirements, forms needed, fees, etc. Remember, you will have to pay sales tax. Good luck, but it is not hard. I bought a boat earlier this year out of Missouri, had no trouble registering in TX

If it has a vin# have TPWD run the vin to see if it has ever been reg. If it has you will have to have that person file for a lost title. Any boat that has a motor wether electric or gas must be reg. to use on public waters.

thanks for the help everyone... i guess ill have to make some phone calls... as far as i can see i have no vin, serial, or any other type or number... sucks... thanks for the help... keep it coming!!!

There is generally a plate on the transom with the #. The last 2 digits are generally the year. TPWD can search and I think you can on the website. You basically need to call them to get it done. It can be a real hassle. Good luck.

I have to ask: is this a manufactured boat or homemade? If it is a manufatured boat (for example, Skeeter, Ozark, Crestliner, etc) and has no vin plate, never been registered, something is wrong. Only the TPWD can answer your questions with any authority.

The boat could be a homemade i guess... its surely not a new one by any means. its aluminum with 3 aluminum bench seats... just a basic aluminum rowboat style. i have not found any plates of any kind on the whole thing. i would guess its from the 60s or 70s. I know this is going to suck but if it gets me on the water im all for it...

thanks yallz

These might help.

Title Application

Registration

I called the TPWD office in north Houston and was told the following are required where boat has no serial #, never previosly titled or registered: 1.Bill Of Sale, details available on TPWD website, as well as downloadable form, 2. Affidavit from seller, explaining why no serial number and why not previously registered. I think he said a downloadable form is available. 3. Bring boat to TPWD for inspection. A serial number will be affixed, title issued, as well as TX numbers. He said call ahead to be sure someone will be there to inspect. Of coutse, you will be going to an office near you, so call ahead to verify all this.

Remember to ask about fees, tax, etc. I don't know if there is an inspection fee, or charge for serial number.

wow dude... thats seriously awesome that you did that... great to know!!!

now i just need to get some JB weld and hopefully fix the little rivet leak in the front... yikes!!!!

Glad to help and know you are going to have a great time getting your boat ready, and getting into some fishing.