Our boat
registration summary contains a quick overview of boat titling, registration, loan
perfection, and operational requirements for the State of
Washington. 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
registration number prefix for this state is "WN". |
|
Title certificate. |
Boat titles
are issued on all registered boats, except those which are Coast
Guard documented. |
|
Registration certificate. |
All power and sailboats must be registered except canoes,
kayaks, etc. and sailboats under 16 feet in length without a
motor. Boats less than 16 feet in length with a motor of 10
horsepower or less are exempt if used only on non-federal
waters. Coast Guard documented vessels must be registered. Boat
registration certificates are renewed on an annual basis.
|
| Sales &
use tax. |
Sales or use
tax is required on all first time registrations and transfers of
ownership. The rates vary by county. |
|
Loan perfection. |
Security
interests are perfected on the state title for non-documented
vessels. A preferred vessel mortgage is required for Coast Guard
documented boats. |
|
Registration agency. |
Washington
State Department of Licensing. |
|
Boat record search. |
Registration
information can only be obtained by submitting a disclosure
request form to the Department of Licensing. |
|
Ownership designations. |
"AND" - "OR"
designations do not apply in this state. Joint owners may be
listed as joint tenants with right of survivorship. |
|
Residency requirements. |
Non-residents
may obtain titles if the vessel is principally located within
this state. |
| Bonded
titling or registration. |
Bonded titles and registrations are available. |
| Electronic
titles. |
Electronic
titles are available at the lender's option. |
| Hull number inspection. |
Hull number
inspections are not required. |
|
Reporting requirements. |
Transfers of
ownership, abandonments, thefts, and destructions must be
reported within 5 days, excluding weekends and holidays. |
|
Outboard motors. |
Registration
and title certificates are not issued. |
|
Boat trailers. |
Registration
and titling are required. |
| Notary
public. |
An embossed
or stamped seal is required for all documents notarized in this
state. |
|
Dealer & broker licensing. |
Boat dealers
and brokers must be licensed and post a $5,000 bond. |
| Visitation period. |
180 days.
Visitor permits must be obtained after 60 days. Boat dealers and
brokers may issue special 1 year visitor permits. |
