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Minnesota Title Requirements: A Complete Guide for Campers, Boats, ATVs, and More

Whether you’re buying or selling a recreational vehicle or a standard automobile in Minnesota, understanding the state’s title requirements is crucial. Having the correct paperwork ensures a smooth transaction and helps avoid legal complications later. Below, we break down title requirements for every type of vehicle—from campers to cars—in Minnesota.

1. Campers

RV (Motorized)

  • Needs a Minnesota Title
    Recreational vehicles (RVs) are treated like motor vehicles. If you’re purchasing or selling an RV, you must transfer or obtain a Minnesota title.

Pop-Up Camper

  • Needs a Minnesota Title
    Even though it’s not motorized, a pop-up camper still requires a valid Minnesota title.

2. Towable Trailers

  • Trailers Weighing 4,000 lbs or More
    - Requires a Minnesota title.
  • Trailers Under 4,000 lbs
    - Bill of Sale Only. No title is required if the trailer weighs less than 4,000 lbs. However, you should always keep a valid, signed bill of sale to prove ownership.

3. Boats

Boats Over 16 Feet

  • Needs a Title (with some exceptions—see below)
  • If you purchase a new boat longer than 16 feet (except kayaks or canoes), the dealer will apply for the title and registration (license) on your behalf. They are also responsible for providing you with registration materials.
  • If your boat is over 16 feet and you do not have a title, you’ll need to apply for a bonded title through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Boats Under 16 Feet

  • Bill of Sale Only
    - Typically, a boat under 16 feet that isn’t powered by a large motor (e.g., canoes, kayaks, or small outboards under 25 hp) does not require a formal title. However, a bill of sale is still essential, and you must register it as needed.

Boats Manufactured Before August 1, 1979

  • No Title Required
    - These boats generally only need a valid, signed bill of sale for the buyer’s records. However, registration with the DNR may still be required depending on the boat’s propulsion and use.

4. 4-Wheelers (ATVs)

  • Bill of Sale + Universal Registration Form
    ATVs in Minnesota do not require a motor vehicle title. Instead, the buyer must complete a Universal Registration Form (available from the Minnesota DNR) and provide a valid bill of sale to register the ATV.

5. Snowmobiles

  • Bill of Sale Only
    Snowmobiles do not have titles in Minnesota. A valid bill of sale is necessary to prove ownership, and registration with the DNR is required for operation.

6. Jet Skis (Personal Watercraft)

  • If Over 16 Feet: Title Required
    - Jet skis (PWCs) longer than 16 feet need a Minnesota title and must be registered with the DNR.
  • If Under 16 Feet: No Title Required
    - You still need to register your PWC with the DNR, but a title is not mandatory under the 16-foot mark.

7. Motor Vehicles (Cars and Trucks)

  • Title Required
    All standard motor vehicles, including cars and trucks, must have a valid Minnesota title to be sold or transferred legally.
  • If No Title
    - The vehicle cannot be sold to a private party without a title. In most cases, the vehicle must be sold to or disposed of by a licensed junk yard.

8. Motorcycles

  • Title Required
    Like cars and trucks, motorcycles must have a Minnesota title to complete a legal sale.
  • If No Title
    - You will need to go through the process of obtaining a bonded title or, in some cases, sell it to a junk yard for disposal if you can’t secure a proper title.

Best Practices for Buying or Selling in Minnesota

  1. Always Verify Ownership: Before completing a purchase, ensure the seller’s name matches the title (if required).
  2. Use a Bill of Sale: Even if a title isn’t required (e.g., trailers under 4,000 lbs, ATVs, snowmobiles), get a detailed, signed bill of sale. This is critical for legal and tax purposes.
  3. Bonded Title Process: If you’ve acquired a vehicle that requires a title but you don’t have one, consider applying for a bonded title through the Minnesota DNR (for boats and PWCs) or the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (for motor vehicles, RVs, motorcycles).
  4. Register Promptly: Many of these vehicles (boats, ATVs, snowmobiles, jet skis) also require DNR registration. Make sure to register them before using on public land or waterways.

Conclusion

Navigating Minnesota’s title requirements is simpler once you know which vehicles need official titles and which only require a bill of sale. If you’re uncertain, always check with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) to ensure compliance. By following these guidelines, you’ll have peace of mind, avoid legal issues, and enjoy your new ride (or sale) without unexpected red tape.


Need more information?
How do I sell my car in a Twin Cities Auction?
How do I prepare my vehicle title for sale?


Stay informed, follow the proper steps, and keep your transactions smooth and hassle-free!



Source Links

https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/boating/index.html

https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/regulations/ohv/index.html

https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/snowmobiling/registration.html

https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/