How to Register A New Boat

[Maceo]

My dad has alzheimers now and can no longer operate his 18 foot MerCruiser Stern Drive.<br /><br />He gave the boat to me but I need to know how to register it and how long the registration tags go for.<br /><br />I have some tags that came in and they have 03 on them but I dont know how to tell which month I need to reknew in.<br /><br />Is the month that they need to be renewed indicated somewhere on the tag???<br /><br />And do I register them thru the Dept of Motor Vehicles?<br /><br />Im new at boating and any help or advice would be appreciated.<br /><br />Thanks

 

[roscoe]

Re: How to Register A New Boat

Here is a link that should answer all your questions. <br /><br /> http://www.dmv.ca.gov/boatsinfo/boat.htm <br /><br />It took some digging to find the statement below, so I'll pass it on so you don't have to look for it.<br /><br />"You must renew your vessel registration by December 31 of every odd-numbered year (i.e., 2001, 2003, etc.) regardless of use. DMV mails a renewal notice approximately 60 days prior to the expiration date. "<br /><br />So if you want to save a few bucks on registration, keep it registered in your dad's name until December. Then do the transfer and registration in your name.<br /><br />I'm assuming that Hercules CA, is in California, not Canada.

 

[Bob in Calif.]

Re: How to Register A New Boat

Hey Fishen... The transfer is a piece of cake. Because the boat was a gift from a family menber, there will be no sales or use tax. You should register it in your name when you get it and avoid problems down the road. The transfer fee is only $10.00,or it was. The boat registration stickers are good for two years, as stated in Rosco's posting. Bi-annual registration for the boat stickers is only about $10.00 also. California uses two types of license plates now for trailers. The old style and a new one with a "PTL" sticker in place of the year and month of expriation. "PTL" stands for "Permanite Trailer License" and is good for, I think, five years. We must have a real good boat lobbyist in sacramento!<br />I hope this will put you at ease with your boat<br />registration questions. ...Bob in Calif..(Across the bay from you)

 

[Maceo]

Re: How to Register A New Boat

Wow, you guys are absolutely awesome!. Thanks for all your help.<br /><br />PS:roscoe, Im also lookin for a fishing buddy to hook up with. My wife is into it and can help with the launching of the boat but Im lookin to hook up with someone I can learn a little from too.<br /><br />You live in the east bay?

 

[roscoe]

Re: How to Register A New Boat

Sorry FISHENFOOL, I live in Wisconsin.<br />Enjoy the boat.

 

[akriverrat]

Re: How to Register A New Boat

california proves once again that they are way different when a "permanent" license is good for 5 years. but maybe that is when the BIG ONE is going to hit. just sour grapes. they conquered oregon then washington and are now working on alaska. where will we run to next?

 

[Maceo]

Re: How to Register A New Boat

Bob from across the Bay...<br /><br />Thanks for the information man. And I meant to direct my last post towards you and not roscoe...(smile) oops <br /><br />Anyways, Id like to hook up with some guys who like fishing the lakes, i.e. Clear Lake, Lake Berryessa, and the DELTA.<br /><br />Get back to me.<br /><br />Thanks