Selling a snowmobile in Michigan — what to know
Michigan snowmobiles are registered with the Secretary of State on a three-year cycle — no titles. In a private sale, the SOS transfer rests on proof of purchase, and that proof is the bill of sale. Record the VIN from the right side of the tunnel, the real price (6% use tax is calculated from it), the date, and both signatures.
The trail permit is the second document of Michigan sledding: an annual sticker required to ride the state’s designated trail system, bought by whoever owns the sled that season. Permits don’t transfer meaningfully with a sale — but the registration does, so get the SOS transfer done before the snow flies.
Michigan rules at a glance
| Topic | Michigan rule |
|---|---|
| Title | No — Michigan snowmobiles are registered (3-year cycle) with the Secretary of State, not titled. |
| Transfer | Buyer transfers the registration at an SOS office; the bill of sale documents the sale. |
| Use tax | 6% collected at transfer, based on the purchase price. |
| Trail permit | Annual permit sticker required for the designated trail system. |
| Notarization | Not required in Michigan. |
Last reviewed August 2026. Rules change — confirm current requirements with the state agency before your sale.
Michigan Snowmobile bill of sale — FAQ
Do snowmobiles have titles in Michigan?
No — they’re registered with the Secretary of State on a three-year cycle. The bill of sale is the ownership record in a private sale.
Does it need to be notarized?
No. Signatures of both parties are sufficient.
What tax applies?
Michigan collects 6% use tax on the purchase price when the registration transfers at the SOS.
Do I need a trail permit too?
Yes, to ride Michigan’s designated trail system — it’s an annual sticker bought by the current owner, separate from registration.