It is essential to have a thorough understanding of the procedures for recreational vessel registration in the United States if you own a boat there. This article will overview the fundamentals of registering your vessel and suggest making the procedure as straightforward and uncomplicated as possible. Therefore, whether you are a new boat owner or need a refresher, continue reading for all you need to know about registering recreational vessels! Before you get started, you need to familiarize yourself with the following information about vessel registration:
The Registration Fee Is Based on the Length of Your Vessel
Boaters, get ready for a break. Registering a boat for recreational use is now simpler than ever. The government has taken action to simplify and lower the cost of the system. It’s excellent that boaters may now register their vessels with only their regular state-issued ID or driver’s license. To register it, more money must be paid if the boat is more significant than a certain length. The cost of registering a vessel is something you should know about before beginning the process. Once you have that amount, you can calculate the actual cost and see how it affects your finances. Ensure to research whether or not the state of registration for your yacht includes sales tax. Depending on the size of your boat, paying sales tax on top of the fee in certain states might cost you thousands of dollars over time.
You Can Register Your Vessel Online or By Mail
The Maritime Documentation Center, DMV, offers both online and paper registration options for boat owners. Downloading the application early will allow you to fill it out on your computer, print it, and submit it by regular mail. Temporary registration cards are issued within two weeks after application submission. When you get your permanent registration card from the DMV, double-check that the name and address on file for your vessel are the same as those on your driver’s license or another form of identification.
Then, choose whether you’ll register your boat offline (through the mail) or online (via the internet). A completed application form must be sent along with the registration money for any fishing boat exceeding 16 feet in length, an ocean-going vessel, or a vessel with a permanent berth. If your vessel is between 13 and 16 feet in length and doesn’t fit into any of the other categories (such as being used solely in freshwater), you may be able to register it online if your state has such a service; otherwise, you may have to take the old-fashioned approach and register it by mail.
Our Recreational Vessel Registration Will Expire Every Five Years
Regarding recreational vessel registration, various states have varied regulations and standards for how, when, and where you may register your boat, and how long that registration is valid is an essential piece of information. It is a good idea to get acquainted with the policies and procedures of your home state and any other states in which you want to register to vote, regardless of whether you intend to do so in your home state or another state.
Because your vessel may also be considered a “motor vehicle” or a “mobile home” depending on the state where it is registered and its size, it is of the utmost importance that you be familiar with the regulations governing each of these other categories as well. Your recreational vessel registration will need to be renewed every five years; thus, you must ensure that your boat has all of the necessary documentation in its file before the end of the time it is now registered.
You Can Choose Between Two Types of Registration – “Hull Identification Number” (HIN) or “Documentation.”
Your first boat registration may be completed using either a “hull identification number” (HIN) or “documentation.” Do you know which one is best for you? Registration under the HIN system is an option if you want to use your boat for personal, non-commercial purposes. The HIN system is fast and straightforward, so registering and getting out on the water is a breeze. Registration of a boat may also be done over the mail.
However, the HIN is not a good choice if you want to utilize your boat for business purposes in the future. The documentation route is more time-consuming and bureaucratic because of the additional paperwork involved. Those who want to earn a livelihood from their boat may enjoy a few privileges. When selling your boat in the future, having the greater flexibility in length, power, and carrying capacity that comes with documentation rather than just the HIN might be well worth the extra work now.
If you own a boat and live in one of the many states requiring recreational vessel registration, you may be worried about the process. But there’s no need to fret—the experts at Maritime Documentation Center have everything set up for you. You have to call them today at (800)-535-8570, and they’ll ensure your boat is registered correctly for a reasonable price.