So, you’ve got a boat (or you’re about to get one), and you’re ready to make Florida’s beautiful waters yours. That's beautiful!
But you already know that there’s one thing you need to handle first: registration.
We'll provide a simple breakdown of everything you need to know to make your boat legal and ready for smooth sailing.
The Basics: Title It, Register It
In Florida, if it’s motorized and hitting public waters (including jet skis and other personal watercraft), it must be titled and registered.
That means you’ve got to apply with your county’s tax collector or a license plate agent.
Of course, you must have proof of ownership on hand (usually a bill of sale or manufacturer’s certificate) because that’s the key to getting your title, which is the golden ticket to registering your boat.
But here’s a heads up: if your vessel is under 16 feet and doesn’t have a motor, like a kayak or canoe? You’re off the hook for both titling and registration. And if your boat’s only floating on private lakes or ponds, skip the registration altogether.
How Much Does Florida Vessel Registration Cost?
The registration fees are based on your boat’s length, so here’s what you’re looking at: prices range from $5.50 for most miniature boats (under 12 feet) to $189.75 for vessels over 110 feet.
Some counties might tack on an extra fee, but here’s a bonus: if your boat is equipped with safety gear like an EPIRB, you might score a discount.
Remember that non-residents with commercial vessels have an additional $50 fee to deal with.
Marking Your Vessel
Once you’ve got your registration in hand, it’s time to mark your boat properly. Here’s how:
Registration Number
This unique number needs to be on both sides of the bow (the front of the boat) in block letters at least 3 inches tall. Ensure the color contrasts with your hull so it’s easy to read.
Hull Identification Number (HIN)
Just like your car’s VIN, the HIN identifies your boat. It should be attached to the transom or starboard side, at least 1/4 inch high.
Registration Decal
You’ll get a decal with your registration that shows the current year. Stick it near your registration number, and you’re all set.
Don’t Drag Your Feet on Registration!
You’ve got 30 days from the purchase date to register your vessel in Florida.
You’ll want to keep proof of the purchase date on board during that time, just in case. If you’re still waiting for the paperwork to process, that proof could save you some hassle.
And listen, don’t ignore this. Operating an unregistered boat after those 30 days? It’s a second-degree misdemeanor, so yeah… handle it ASAP.
Renewing Your Vessel Registration
Florida makes renewing your vessel registration super easy. You can renew it annually, with your registration expiring at midnight on your birthday.
But if you want to make life easier, opt for the two-year registration. This is even more important if you plan to keep the boat for a while.
Extra Tips for Florida Boat Owners
If you’re a non-resident with a commercial vessel, remember you’ll have that extra fee. And don’t forget about sales tax when buying a boat—it’ll come into play if it wasn’t paid at the time of sale.
Bottom Line
Florida has clear rules for getting your vessel registered without the headache. Follow those simple steps, and you’ll be ready to enjoy Florida’s rivers, lakes, and coastlines in no time.
But we know that while it feels so easy, it does take time. But who says you have to handle any of it alone?
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Check out these other great resources to learn more about the basics of getting a replacement car title:
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