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State Boat Registration Overview

What you should know about state boat registration and titling.

State boat registration is best explained as a process by which domestic and territorial agencies grant operational privileges for various types of watercraft within their jurisdictions. In addition to the assessment of related fees and taxes, this may include the issuance of a title certificate. Although federal statutes prescribe certain uniform boat registration standards, each state may exercise a great deal of autonomy with regard to regulatory and administrative matters.


Registration vs. Titling

The relationship between boat registration and titling is similar to what one would find in the automobile industry. Registrations are periodic, renewable and the certificate must be carried on board the boat at all times during operation. This provides evidence of having paid the required operational fees and taxes. The title certificate is on the other hand a one time issue unless damaged, mutilated, or lost and thereby necessitating a replacement. It serves as proof of ownership and is transferrable on its face. There are, however, a number of registration only states which do not offer boat title certificates. In these cases, the registration itself must serve as proof of ownership unless the boat is USCG documented.

Registration vs. USCG Documentation

Coast Guard vessel documentation is a federal form of registration and titling which is optional for recreational boats that meet certain qualifications. This includes a minimum size requirement of approximately 25 feet in length which precludes most personal watercraft, ski boats, and runabouts. Although federal law prohibits the states from issuing titles on documented boats, they may become subject to registration in some jurisdictions. In any event, documentation does not eliminate the assessment of state and personal property taxes.

Jurisdictional Differences

All of the states nationwide are bound by federal standards with respect to data gathering, registration numbering, and boat identification methods. However, they each have the latitude of determining which boats must become registered, titled or exempted. The fees and administrative procedures will also vary widely depending on the jurisdiction.

Registation Agencies

The type of government agencies tasked with the administration of boat registration and titling can vary widely among the various states. In some cases, registration and titling duties are actually consigned to different offices. Such agencies may include a Department of Motor Vehicles, Fish and Game Department, Department of Revenue, Conservation and Wildlife Division, County Clerk's Office, or  Marine Patrol Division.. just to name a few. There is, however, a growing trend of consolidating boats and vehicles into a common administrative system which allows for greater uniformity.

Conclusion

Registering and titling a boat on the state level is becoming ever more convenient given the level of online services which are now provided by most government agencies. In addition to the current rules, regulations, forms and procedures, you will find convenient portals for initial registrations, renewals, and database searches. It's just a matter of navigating to the appropriate website for the jurisdiction of your choice. Our state by state registration overviews, guidelines and resources will show you how to go about accomplishing this along with a wealth of supplemental information.


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