If you own a sailboat over eight feet long or a boat/vessel with a motor (no matter the size), you must register it with DMV in order to legally operate it on California waterways.
To register your boat/vessel, you will need:
- A completed Application for Vessel Certificate of Number (BOAT 101) form.
- Proof of ownership, such as the original California Certificate of Ownership (title) or the out-of-state title (if it is currently registered in another state).
- If the original certificate is lost or damaged, complete an Application for Replacement or Transfer Title (REG 227) form to request a copy.
- Applicable fees.
- If you own a trailer for your boat/vessel, you need to register it separately.
You may also need:
- To complete an approved boating safety course and obtain a California Boater Card if you plan to operate a motorized vessel on a state waterway.
- Bill(s) of sale (if you bought your boat/vessel from a private party instead of a dealer).
- A Statement of Facts (REG 256) form, in case you do not have a copy of the bill of sale.
You can register your boat/vessel at any DMV field office, or mail your registration application and related documents to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
PO Box 942869
Sacramento, CA 94269-0001
You may also need to pay the Quagga and Zebra Mussel Infestation Fee and obtain a Mussel Fee sticker. Please see the Mussel Fee sticker request page for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Additional Information
Boats and vessels registered in California are included in property taxes by the county tax collector, depending on where the boat/vessel is stored or moored. DMV might deny registration renewal or transfer if the county tax collector tells DMV that you have not paid your personal property taxes.
Vessel registration becomes invalid when a boat/vessel is:
- Required to be documented by the U.S. Coast Guard.
- Transferred to a new owner.
- Destroyed or abandoned.
- No longer used primarily in California.
You must tell the DMV when a boat/vessel is:
- Sold.
- Moved to a different storage location.
- Documented through the U.S. Coast Guard.
- Destroyed, lost, or abandoned. Return the California Certificate of Ownership to DMV within 15 days.
Learn more about vessel registration transaction requirements by visiting the Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual.
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Registration Fees
How much will it cost to register your boat?
Boat/Vessel Guide
Our special interest guide for boat owners is full of great information on everything from registration to quagga requirements.
Titles
Everything you need to know about owning and transferring titles, including vessel titles.