Corpusfishing.com

[Sharkchaser]

Need help getting a title for a boat I got a couple of years ago for a 12' Jon Boat. I bought from a guy that never had the title in his name. I have been to TPWD and they tell me the title is in someones name (not the person I bought it from). The guy I bought it from never had the title switched into his name. I have the little ID card for the boat and a bill of sale. What is the easiest way to get the boat title into my name so I can use it.
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"If I'm going down, I'm going down in flames"

[Mad Dog]

Dude, are you up for a treasure hunt? That's what you are in for. I just finished doing the very same thing. TP&W are nice folks but not overly helpful. To get title you have to have an endorsed title from the registered owner. If the guy you bought it from does not have the endorsed original title here is what you have to do; 1) Go to the TP&W website under this link https://apps.tpwd.state.tx.us/tora/legal.jsf;jsessionid=30822C3A1242B1BC0BB8C11DCA6E6A47 Enter the TX number, registration number, or serial number. This will tell you the name of the current title holder as well as any lien holder, 2) Google the current title holder to find contact information (you may have to spend a few $ to buy one of those people searches), 3) Contact the person on the title 4) convince them that you are not a nut case and ask them to sign a form PWD 143 M http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/publications/pwdforms/media/pwd_0143m_a0900_vessel_boat_records_maintenance.pdf to replace the lost title. And, a form PWD 581 http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/publications/pwdforms/media/pwd_581_a0900_letter_of_authorization.pdf This allows you to go to the TP&W and file the other form on his behalf. This may include a change of address on his part. 4) Have him sign both forms and send them back to you. 5) Take the two forms and $27 to the local TP&W office (be very polite) and file the request. 6) Ask the previous title holder to endorse and mail to you the new title once he receives it 7) Fill out form PWD 143 and take it with the endorsed title back to TP&W office with your checkbook in hand. Then within 30 days you should have a clear title in you hands. That's it!

Good luck!

MD
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Ego piscor, ergo sum

http://s175.photobucket.com/albums/w150/cstockton/Aquasport/

[Uncle D]

MD is right on, had to do the exact thing for a marine engine. In case you didn't know those are supposed to be registered too.

[Sharkchaser]

Yeah I know I have to get the motor titled also, but that sounds a little bit easier since it has never been titled. Thanks for your help! I will see what I can do.
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"If I'm going down, I'm going down in flames"

[Mad Dog]

SharkChaser, send me a PM if you have any specific questions I can help with. I was dumb-founded when I discovered who actually had title to my engine and I had to get a lien release to boot.

MD
_________________
Ego piscor, ergo sum

http://s175.photobucket.com/albums/w150/cstockton/Aquasport/