States that title outboards
States that title outboard motors separately include Missouri, Ohio, South Carolina, and Texas, each with its own rules on horsepower and age. Your state guide explains the rules where you live. Rules change, and we confirm current requirements when we handle your paperwork.
If your motor has its own title
Sign the motor's title as you would the boat's. If the motor title is lost, apply for a duplicate the same way.
Motors without titles
If your state does not title outboards, the motor is included with the boat on the bill of sale.
Why some states title outboards
Outboards can be valuable and easy to remove, so some states title them separately to discourage theft and track ownership.
Motors that were swapped
If the motor on your boat came from another boat, it may have its own title in someone else's name. Tell us, and we will explain how your state handles it.
Finding the serial number
The serial number is usually on a plate on the motor's mounting bracket. Photograph it with your form.
Questions
I replaced the original outboard. Does that matter?
In outboard-title states, the new motor should have its own title. Tell us if it does not.
Can I keep the motor and donate the boat?
Yes, but the boat may be worth much less without it.
What about kicker motors?
Small kickers may or may not need titles depending on horsepower and state.
Do electric trolling motors need titles?
Generally no. The rules focus on gas outboards above a certain horsepower.
What if the outboard title is in a previous owner's name?
The title may need to be transferred first. We will walk you through it.