How to Transfer Ownership of a Boat Port in St. Lucie, Florida

Boat ownership transfers in St. Lucie County are conducted in the county tax assessor office.

In the state of Florida, including St. Lucie County, transfer of ownership applications for boats must be submitted to the county tax collector's office in the county of the purchaser's residence. The documentation must be properly completed and submitted in a timely fashion to avoid paying penalties and fines. Also, sales tax must be paid on the purchase price of the the boat being registered in St. Lucie County, Fla.

Instructions

1. Visit the county tax collector's office in St. Lucie County, Fla. Applications for boat title transfers must be completed within 30 days of the boat's purchase. The office is located at:

   2300 Virginia Ave.

   Ft. Pierce, FL 34982

   Phone · 772-462-1650

   Fax · 772-462-2101

2. Present the St. Lucie County tax collector's office with all the documentation required for a boat title transfer. Those seeking to transfer ownership of a boat must bring the most recently issued title document for the vessel. The title document must be signed by both the the seller and the purchaser. Applicants must also show valid identification.

3. Pay the boat title application fee. As of 2011, the fee ranges from $8.25 to $14.25, based on the transaction type. The St. Lucie County tax collector office accepts payment in the form of cash, check or money order.

4. Pay any applicable sales tax pertaining to the boat being registered in the county. Unless a qualifying exemption applies or sales tax is paid by the seller, the purchaser is responsible for sales tax in Florida.

References

• St. Lucie County Florida Tax Collector's Office
• St. Lucie County Florida Tax Collector: Boats and Watercraft Information

Resources

• Facts for Florida Vessel Owners