The eastern part of San Diego county is filled with enthusiasts who love the outdoors. From boating to off-roading there are thousands of people who need to register their toys. ELCAJONDMV.COM wants to ensure that you do not run in to any hiccups when you want to use your boat. Vessels needs to be registered in order to use them on any California Public Waterway and in the ocean. If you have a documented vessel then you do not have to register your boat or vessel with the California DMV.
What is a Documented Vessel?
A documented vessel is a boat that is over 26 feet in length and over 5 metric tons and registered with the United States coast Guard. If the vessel is documented it does not need to have a certificate number or be registered with the State of California.
What is a undocumented vessel?
A undocumented vessel is one that is registered with the California Department of Motor Vehicles. An undocumented vessel also has a pink slip issued for the vessel.
You might find this to be confusing when it comes to trying to register your boat or vessel. If you did not know any better the difference between a undocumented and documented vessel would appear to be backwards. Now that we established what type of vessel or boat is required to registered, we can explore how to obtain boat registration.
How to Register A Boat in California
- If you purchase a boat new from the dealer, the dealer should obtain the title and registration on your behalf. They are mandated by law to title the boat in the name of the owner and legal owner when it is purchased.
- If you have a boat and are moving to California, you are required to register your boat with the California DMV. You will need the following documents To register your boat with the California DMV.
A. Out of State Title or Registration Card
B. A completed form BOAT 101
C. If the boat is 2008 or newer your boat must meet California Emissions requirements
Note: If your boat has a trailer, the trailer must be registered separately. Your trailer will be registered under the permanent trailer program and will be registered for a term of 5 years.
How often do you have to renew boat registration,
A boat is register for a term of 2 years in the State of California. The fee to renew a boat is $20.00.
Do I need a Quagga/Zebra mussel sticker?
If you operate your boat in any lake or reservoir within the State of California then you must purchase a Quagga Mussel sticker when your renew your boat registration.
If you only operate your boat in ocean waters then you do not need to purchase the Mussel sticker when you renew your boat registration. You must complete a statement of facts stating you do not operate your boat in any California waterway to obtain the exemption.
How much is the Quagga Mussel Sticker?
The Quagga Mussel sticker is $16.00
Transferring or Selling Your Boat
If you are planning to transfer or sale your boat the you must follow the procedures outlined below so you release ownership of the vessel properly.
- Sign the front of the certificate of title. This release I’m your interest in the bot or vessel.
- Fill out the attached release of liability and send it to the Department of Motor Vehicles. This ensures that you are no longer responsible for the vessel once you have sold it.
- Instruct the buyer to take the title to the DMV to complete the transfer requirements.
It is a good idea that you take your customer to the DMV or The Tag Stop to complete the registration requirements. This will ensure the boat is completely out of your name and you are no longer responsible for the boat. The release of liability does not take the boat out of your name completely and you could potentially still. Ear responsibility for the boat if the buyer never completes his or her part of the transaction.
How much does it cost to transfer a boat or vessel?
The fee to transfer a boat is $15.00
Do I Have To Pay Tax When I Purchase a Boat?
Yes, taxes are due on the amount you purchased the vessel or boat for. The standard taxable rate is 7.75%. Depending on the county and city your boat is in the taxes could be higher.
Boat Luxury Tax
San Diego County taxes the owner of boats located in San Diego County. This tax is separate from any tax you will pay to the DMV. The tax amount varies depending on where you boat is located. The tax rate is roughly 1% of the assessed value.