Boat Registration, Titling & Documentation

Every engine-equipped boat operating in U.S. waters, as well as many other types of boats, must be registered with a state boating agency or with the federal government. An estimated 12 million boats are currently registered in the U.S.

Registration numbers consisting of a two-letter state code and a combination of letters and numbers are displayed on both sides of the bow. Registration is usually renewed every year or two.

Boat registration is similar to car registration. In most states, registration fees pay for the enforcement of navigation and pollution rules. Registration programs also aid in identifying lost or stolen boats. Fees collected usually fund state boating programs. Not all states require that boats be titled, so ownership can also be established through boat registration records.

Federal documentation is a national form of registration administered by the U.S. Coast Guard for boats over 5 net tons (usually about 27 ft.). Its chief benefit is that mortgages, bills of sale and liens can be registered at the federal level, making them easy to trace. Lenders favor this approach and may require it for larger boat loans. Only boats owned by U.S. citizens qualify for documentation.

For more information about documentation, contact the U.S. Coast Guard, 1-800-368-5647 or www.uscgboating.org.

Boating Safety

“Fun,” “speed,” “freedom” and “escape” are the catch phrases often hyped by boat advertisers who rarely use the word “safety.” But safety is just as important since the marine environment can be unforgiving.

Safe boating means being prepared for emergencies, having a thorough understanding of how your boat operates, having proper safety equipment on board and observing these basic safety rules:

• Alcohol, drugs and boating don’t mix!
• Know navigation “Rules of the Road” and how to read a chart. Go to www.navcen.uscg.gov for more rules and much more!
• Know how to operate your boat. Make sure your partner knows as well.
• Keep proper safety gear accessible and know how to use it.
• Wear life jackets.
• Stay alert to changes in weather and sea conditions; check the marine weather report frequently.
• Learn first aid.

Take a Boating Safety Class!
Call the BoatU.S. Foundation 800-336-BOAT (2628) or go to
www.boatus.com/courseline for a boating course near you!