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BOAT REGISTRATION SUMMARY

State of Virginia

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          Our boat registration summary contains a quick overview of boat titling, registration, loan perfection, and operational requirements for the State of Virginia. More detailed information, forms, guidelines, and a complete listing of resources are obtainable by downloading a Boat Registration Kit for this state. You will also find an extensive listing of generic state level boat registration, boat trailer, and general purpose forms on our Forms Page . Please visit our State Page for additional articles and information regarding state level boat registration, titling, and operational requirements.

The information presented here is subject to change and should be confirmed with the respective state agency.

State numbering. The boat numbering prefix for the State of Virginia is "VA".
Title certificate. Vessels propelled by a motor (including gasoline, diesel, and electric motors) and sail-powered vessels over 18 feet in length must be titled.
Registration certificate. All motorized boats are subject to registration. Coast Guard documented boats are excluded from registration. Registration certificates renew every 3 years.
Sales & use tax. Sales tax applies to boat transactions.
Loan perfection. A security interest is recorded on the state title records if the boat is state titled an non-documented. If the boat is non-titled and non-documented a UCC financing statement must be recorded. On Coast Guard documented boats, a preferred vessel mortgage must be recorded on the vessel's abstract of title.
Registration agency. Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries, Boat Section.
Boat record search. The Boat Section will confirm hull numbers and verify boat certificates in hand. Detailed reports must be obtained from a public record service.
Ownership designations. Co-owners are designated with "AND" or "OR".
Residency requirements. Titles and registrations are available to non-residents if the boat is located within the state.
Reporting requirements. Transfers of interest, abandonments, destructions, and thefts must be reported within 15 days.
Hull number inspection. Required if there is a discrepancy.
Outboard motors. Titles and registrations are not issued to outboard motors.
Notary public. Notary commissions are for 4 years, no bonding is required, a notary seal must be affixed to all documents notarized within the state.
Dealer & broker licensing. Dealers and brokers are licensed, must have a place of business, and must post a $5,000 bond.
Visitation period. 90 days.


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