Finally, the boat you’ve always wished for is going to be yours forever. You’ve won the treasure hunt to navigate open water, relax, and enjoy. But before heading out, there’s something that you can’t overlook – boat registration. It’s your final step to get your wonderful boat ready for the water.
God forbid, what if your boat sinks on the way? Beyond the humiliation, think about how you would explain to the Coast Guard that they need to save not just you, but your boat which is illegal? Getting caught sailing your unregistered boat feels like the nautical equivalent of getting charged for drunk driving. In short, you’d have nothing to prove that the boat is yours.
Now that your dream boat is ready, a lot of work has been done. However, it still needs registration before being put on the water. Of course, you’ll have a lot of questions about where to register and what taxes you’d have to pay. This comprehensive guide breaks down the seemingly difficult task of registering your boat into simple steps. Register your boat for real, and get a boat that truly belongs to you.
Boat Registration – Your Legal Proof of Ownership
Picture enjoying a short water trip with your friends. Everything is going well, and you are just five miles over the speed limit. A cop, seemingly in a bad mood, approaches you suddenly and hands you a ticket. Nothing worse than that. Boating experiences come with a responsibility, it doesn’t matter how frequently you take your boat out.
Getting your boat registered is not rocket science. Have you ever gotten your car registered? Getting your boat registered is somewhat similar. It’s done to ensure that your boat fulfills the safety requirements and can be tracked in case of theft or other mishaps.
Not only this, but it’s your only document that proves that the boat is yours. While registration helps recover the stolen boat, titling secures your ownership rights and is required for insurance or resale purposes.
Now that you know how important the registration is, let’s get into state-specific regulations regarding the registration.
Regulations Regarding Boat Registration
Remember, every US state has its own rules when it comes to registering your boat. In one state, a quick process, a signature, and you are done! Go to another state, and a lot of paperwork, proof of ownership, and receipts await. Let’s walk you through the key differences in every state –
- If you have a motorized one or a sailboat with auxiliary engines, get it registered in California.
Titling: Not required
Exemption: Non-motorized boats - Get vessels longer than 16 feet registered with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
Titling: Required
Exemption: Non-motorized boats - Get your motorized boats and sailboats 14 feet or longer registered with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
Titling: Yes
Exemption: Non-motorized boats - All power-driven vessels must be registered with the New York Department of Motor Vehicles.
Titling: Required (all vessels that are at least 14 feet in length)
Exemption: Non-motorized vessels
In summary, it’s crucial to check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles for the best information.
Since you’ve scouted where to register and your state’s regulations, now comes the moment where everything becomes legal – registration.
Registration Process – The wait is over!
Now is the time to get your dream of owning a boat fulfilled. It’s something that you’ve always yearned for, and now is the last step. With a little guidance and prep work, cruise confidently. Let’s go through how to register your boat, step by step.
Have Your Papers Ready
Make sure the document proves that the boat is yours before you move ahead. Let’s look at the documents you’ll need when registering your boat.
Proof of Ownership
Avoid delaying the registration process or getting denied with the right proof of ownership. After all, it’s the foundation of boat registration.
- Bill of Sale: It’s proof that you are officially the owner. This document shows the buyer and the seller, the buying cost, and the sale agreement.
- Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin: Buying a new boat? Get a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin directly from the manufacturer.
- Previous Registration: Purchasing a pre-owned? Get a copy of the previous registration.
With these documents in hand, ensure a stress-free journey from owning a boat to getting it registered legally. A perfect sunny, bright day on the water awaits!
Personal Identification
It’s required to confirm that you are the legal owner and to avoid any misuse. It includes –
- A valid driver’s license or a government-issued ID
- A boat title.
If your state doesn’t require a title for registration, you may need additional documents, such as a bonded title or an affidavit.
Overall, make your boat registration a breeze with proper documentation. That said, a proper document won’t take you anywhere if you have no clue where to register your boat.
Know Where to Register
Determining exactly where to register can transform a seemingly confusing task into a breeze.
- While some states require you to visit in person, others allow you to submit everything online or by mail.
- Mostly, the agency is either the DMV or a dedicated department of natural resources.
As you know, where to get your boat registered, let’s talk about the little investment you need to make for a hassle-free experience.
Understand the Cost of Registering Your Boat
Now that you are set to make your boat legally yours, here is a catch! Just like any dream-come-true adventure, there’s a climax – registration fee. It varies widely depending on your boat size, type, and laws. Have a look –
Boat Size
- In some states, a mere amount of $20 is good to start with; it can rise up to $100 if your boat size is large.
- Also, consider an additional fee for numbering, endorsements, and a late fee in case of delayed registration renewal.
- Don’t act surprised if your small fishing boat gets away with the process at a modest price, while you end up paying a higher price for a commercial boat.
- While some states require yearly renewal, others offer multi-year options.
Dealership
Purchasing a new or pre-owned boat from a dealership? Here is the good news.
- The dealers can help you handle the registration process as part of the boat-buying agreement.
- Pay the fiduciary price that is included in the total purchase cost of your boat.
Once you are clear on the costs associated with the registration, it’s time to submit the application.
Submit Your Application
Send your application along with the gathered documents and payment to complete the registration process. You need to fill in –
- Length, make, and model of your boat
- Hull Identification Number (HIN)
- Type of Engine
After you are done, double-check all the details to avoid delays. And then with a click, your application is submitted. Soon you will get your registration certificate.
Get Registration Certificate and Decals
After your application gets approved, you’ll get the registration certificate along with decals.
- Fix the decals on both sides of your bow and above the waterline.
- Keep the certificate along with you every time you are on board to avoid hefty fines from the coast guards.
With certificates and decals in hand, create your own experiences on water. The registration is valid for one to three years and needs to be renewed.
In other words, boat registration is a crucial requirement for any boat owner, regardless of where they are located. By going through the nuances of state-specific registration regulations, costs, and the documents required, you make yourself ready for a safe navigation on the waters.
What about a reliable dealer by your side who makes the whole process more convenient? Slip Stream makes it happen. From assisting you in choosing the right boat to helping you with registration and all the legalities, Slip Stream does the legwork for you. Now, it’s your turn to get started on an adventurous trip on water.
Conclusion
Get your boat registered and have peace of mind knowing that you are taking the right step to protect yourself and your boat. Don’t hesitate to consult state agencies directly if any confusion arises during the registration process. As you set sail with the proper knowledge on boat registration, your boat is well-suited for all the adventurous voyages you have ever dreamt of!
