You need a vessel agent appointment to register any watercraft that can be used as a means of transportation on the water.
How to Apply for a Vessel Agent Appointment
Apply for your appointment – all occupational license applicants must create an online account and apply online. How-to videos and a quick start guide are available. If you experience technical issues or get locked out of your account, see technical support.
When applying, have the following information and supporting documents ready for upload:
- Business ownership structure and property information.
- Secretary of State (SOS) Statement of Information (Corporation, Limited Liability Company, Partnership/Limited Partnership).
- Personal identifying information and conviction history.
- Copy of California seller’s permit from California Department of Tax and Fee Administration.
- Completed Request for Live Scan Clearance (receipt) (DMV 8016) as proof of completing a Live Scan fingerprint for each person listed as owner.
- If “doing business as,” a copy of the fictitious name statement is required.
Quarterly Physical Inventory Report
To maintain your approved vessel agent status, you need to submit a Quarterly Physical Inventory Report (BOAT 124-1) by the 5th of January, April, July, and October of each year. Mail your report to the address on the form:
DMV
Occupational Licensing Section
PO Box 932342 MS L224
Sacramento, CA 94232-3420
Exceptions
You can find exceptions to what qualifies as a vessel in California Vehicle Code (CVC) §9840, 1-3.
Vessel agent licensing authority
California Vehicle Code (CVC) §9840.
California Code of Regulations Title 13, Division 1, Chapter 1. Article 3.2 Registration of Vehicles
Looking for information on vessel registration? Visit the Agent’s Handbook for Registration of Undocumented Vessels.
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Questions?
Contact us if you have any questions about applying for occupational licenses. We’re here to help!
Boat/Vessel Guide
Our special interest guide for boat owners is full of great information on everything from registration to quagga requirements.
Occupational Licensing
Learn more about occupational licensing and find helpful resources.