Got a boat but no papers

[slobslayer]

No papers at a flea market?

I am not calling anybody a thief, it just kinda makes sense to me that a person could easily sell a stolen boat in that manner. How could you check something like that to make sure it was not stolen goods before you buy it?

I agree. If it was stickered in Indiana would they have any info, but then again if it was stolen why did the theif leave the stickers on?

[gocards40]

Since it has been registered you might have the previous owner to apply for a title. Not sure since it was in Indiana. You may also have to get it inspected in Kentucky which will tell you if it was stolen or not.

[coombro]

some boats just dont come with papers. If theres no motor theres no need to regester. I know when i was out whitewater kayaking i saw registration stickers on kayaks from ohio. That state makes you register just to get on the water and paddle. Guess it depends on size and value of boat on paper work. some boats if bought new all u get is a receipt. Here in ky it use to be all internal combustion engines must be tagged. Now its any motor must be tagged. Our trailers are gonna be next.

[Jabbo]

A lot of boats don't come with titles. (plastic types, canoes, kayaks)
some come with a COO or certificate of origin.
As far as registering a boat and having to have license numbers on it, It depends on length and motor size. If you have a little two man boat with a trolling motor, it may not need to be licensed. (some lakes may require it but not the state)
I imagine that it is really easy, take it to the clerks office with you along with a set of decals to stick on the side once your done. I bet your in and out in 30 minutes with no problems and less than a $50.00 bill.