The transfer of ownership of a jet ski can occur in one of a few ways including signing over the title, a South Dakota Jet Ski Bill of Sale, or a dealers invoice. When purchasing a used jet ski, the seller will need to sign over the title to the buyer (if the jet ski is titled) and complete a proper bill of sale documenting the sales price, date, parties information, hull identification number as well as other vehicle details. When purchasing a new jet ski, the dealers invoice will act as the bill of sale when applying for registration.
Jet Skis are considered recreational vehicles and often don’t require the same titling and registration requirements as a motor vehicle. Depending on the state, the seller may not be required to title the Jet Ski or register it if it meets certain criteria. In that scenario, the only method of ownership transfer is through a South Dakota Jet Ski Bill of Sale. Always review your states applicable boat title and registration rules before initiating a purchase to be sure you are receive the correct documents to register the vehicle and prove ownership.
Before making any purchase where a title or current Jet Ski registration are not filed with your state’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR), we suggest you check the jet ski’s hull identification number with your local police department to see if it’s been reported as stolen.
What Makes a Bill of Sale?
When deciding on which Jet Ski Bill of Sale it is critical to look for certain criteria in the document itself, to be sure it is valid and binding. This includes:
Clear Buyer and Seller Information – If contested, a court will generally look to the bill of sale for determining ownership. If the seller or buyers information is not clear, a judge may have difficultly interpreting who owns the jet ski. It is also crucial when registering the vehicle. Without the title, the Department of Natural Resources employee may need to search for a replacement title using the name, address or phone number of the Seller. It is always a good idea to get a copy of the seller’s driver’s license.
The Offer – There must be a clear offer made by the seller which the buyer is accepting. Ambiguity will only make it more difficult when determining whether a contract is valid. You want an Jet Ski Bill of Sale that clearly spells out the year, make, model, mileage, condition and description of the vehicle.
An Exchange of Funds – In exchange for the Jet Ski, money is typically given to the seller. An effective bill of sale will include a clear itemization of the sale price using both numeric and written dollar amounts.
Competent Parties – Both parties entering in the agreement must be of sound mind and body. Typically this prevents child or persons with mental handicaps from entering in a contract that they may not understand. It can also be sometimes extended (based on your jurisdiction) to persons under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Persons under duress may also not be consider competent.
Can’t Break The Law – Generally, a valid contract can’t break the law. An agreement to split the funds from a bank robbery would be void as it violates public policy.
South Dakota Jet Ski Bill of Sale Template
Below is our generic Jet Ski Bill of Sale Template that can be used for any county in South Dakota.
Common Asked Questions/FAQ
What if the seller doesn’t have the title?
In the event that the jet ski was titled, but it is not available, you can still purchase the Jet Ski with a bill of sale. The seller can apply for a replacement title with the DNR (Department of Natural Resources) and sign over to you before the Purchase is complete. If no title exists, than the Bill of Sale will act as proof of ownership.
Can we e-sign the bill of sale?
It depends on your state. We suggest you check your local state laws regarding the validity of electronic signatures.
What to do with the bill of sale?
Whether you are the buyer or seller it is always a good idea to save a copy for your records. If you have a scanner, make a digital copy of the document. If not, take a picture of the document and email it to yourself.
Does the bill of sale need to be notarized?
It depends on your state. We suggest you check your local state laws regarding notarizing signatures on a contract. As a general rule of thumb, it doesn’t hurt to get the bill of sale notarized even if it doesn’t need to be by law.