State Boating Regulations


	Additional State Boating Regulations

TITLE AND REGISTRATION:

The Department of Licensing oversees the titling and registration process. While most boats must be titled and registered, there are some exceptions. In general, all motorboats and sailboats 16 feet and over are required to be titled or registered. Check the chart below to see if your boat must be registered. You may register at your local county auditor's office or vehicle licensing subagency offices. Bring proof of ownership, such as Manufacturer's Certificate of origin, Carpenter's Certificate or Manufacturer's Invoice; the hull number, if available; and proof for any exemptions claimed. The signature of all owners except lienholder(s) is also required.

Vessels that have a valid number under federal law in the state of principal use, may temporarily use Washington waters without obtaining Washington registration. When Washington becomes the new principal state, the vessel owner has 60 days in which to obtain Washington registration.

Registration must be completed before you operate your boat. The state registration year is July 1 through June 30. When you register you may request the continued use of your Coast Guard number.

Boat registration fees are:

A $5 title fee, one-time only.

A $10.50 annual registration fee.

Plus applicable filing fee.

You may be required to pay an excise tax when you register. Call the Department of Licensing for questions on registration: (360)902-3770.

Washington Vessel Registration Requirements:

	SAILBOATS				HUMAN POWERED Any Length	MOTORIZED VESSELS		DOCUMENTED VESSELS
	Under 16 Feet		16 Feet and Over			MOTORIZED VESSELS
	With Motor	Without Motor	With Motor	Without Motor		Under 16 Feet	16 Feet and Over
Excise tax required	NO	NO	YES	YES	NO	NO	YES	**YES
Registration/Titling Required	YES	NO	YES	YES	NO	*YES	YES	Registration Only

If your boat is homemade or has been acquired by trade, lease or gift or the most recent purchase price is not known, you will be asked to complete a declaration of value. That declared value may be reviewed by the Department of Revenue.

All boat owners must notify the Department of Licensing within 15 days of the following:

The owner's change of address.

The destruction, loss, abandonment, theft or recovery of the boat.

The loss or destruction of a valid certificate of registration.

When a vessel is sold, you must notify the Department of Licensing of the following within five working days of the date of sale:

The name and address of the owner and of the transferee.

The description of the vessel by using the vessel (WN) number and/or the hull identification number (HIN).

Renewal reminder notices are generally mailed in April. If you do not receive a renewal notice, contact your local county auditor or licensing agent. Call the Department of Licensing for questions on registration: (360)902-3770 option 5.

Additional State Boating Regulations