How do I get the a Texas boat titled in my name?

Question

I have a boat...no title. The orginal owner no longer has the title for the boat or motor. (I verifyed with TPWD that she is the owner).

I typed up a Bill of Sale indicating information for the boat and motor... etc...and had it signed by myself the owner and a witness that she sold me they boat.

Now what...do I apply for a lost title? Do I have to have her sign anything else?

When I walk into TPWD is a Bill of sale enough to consider the boat mine?
HELP

Answer 1

The bill of sale should be enough. I think today they can run a search to see if it stolen. But, if you sure of the owner and she sign the paper, you should be OK.

Answer 2

If I recall correctly, this will be a title transfer with binder. It can only be done if the lost title is a TX title. There are seperate forms to fill out for it. The bill of sale is a must have, but a lot more paperwork is needed.

However, the easiest way to do this is to have the previous owner pay 15 bucks or so to have the title reissued in her name, then have her sign it over to you - It just takes a few weeks.