California boat registration is handled by the Department of Motor Vehicles, and the process depends on whether your boat is new, used, or already registered in another state

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) registers all vessels over eight feet long or with a motor of any size. You'll need to register your boat before operating it on California waters. The basic steps are the same whether you buy from a dealer or a private seller, but the documents you bring differ slightly. Registration takes about two weeks after the DMV receives your completed paperwork, though you can operate your boat while the process is being processed if you have proof of submission.

Most boat owners complete registration in person at a DMV office, though some counties now accept mail-in applications. You'll pay a one-time registration fee based on your boat's length, plus a biennial renewal fee every two years. The registration certificate and decal are proof that your boat is legal to operate in California.

Key Takeaways

  • All California boats over eight feet long or with any motor must be registered with the DMV before you operate them.
  • You need a bill of sale, proof of ownership, and a completed process for Vessel Registration (Form REG 35) to register your boat.
  • Registration fees depend on your boat's length and are paid once; renewal fees are due every two years.
  • You can register in person at a DMV office or by mail in most counties, and you may operate your boat while your process is being processed if you have proof of submission.

What documents you need to bring

The exact documents depend on whether your boat is new, used, or coming from out of state. For a used boat purchased from a private seller, bring the bill of sale signed by both you and the seller, the previous registration certificate (if the boat was registered in California), and a completed process for Vessel Registration (Form REG 35). You can read Form REG 35 from the California DMV website or pick it up at any DMV office.

If you're buying from a dealer, the dealer usually handles some paperwork on your behalf, but you still need to complete Form REG 35 and bring proof of identity and residency. If your boat is new and has never been registered, bring the manufacturer's certificate of origin instead of a previous registration. If you're registering a boat that was previously registered in another state, bring that state's registration certificate along with your bill of sale and Form REG 35.

Proof of identity can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID. Proof of California residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and address.

Registration fees and how they're calculated

California boat registration fees are based on your boat's length, measured from the foremost part of the hull to the aftermost part. The fee is a one-time charge paid when you first register. Boats under 8 feet long are not required to register, but if you choose to register one, the fee is lower. Boats 8 to 16 feet long cost one amount; 16 to 26 feet cost more; 26 to 40 feet cost more still; and boats over 40 feet have the highest fee.

The exact dollar amounts change periodically, so check the California DMV website or call your local DMV office for current fees. In addition to the registration fee, you'll pay a biennial renewal fee every two years to keep your registration active. The renewal fee is the same amount as the initial registration fee. You'll receive a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your registration expires.

Where to register your boat in person

You can register your boat at any California DMV office. Find the office nearest you using the DMV's office locator on their website. Not all offices have the same hours, so check before you go. Bring all required documents, your proof of identity and residency, and payment for the registration fee. You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at most offices.

Processing times vary by location, but most offices can complete registration while you wait if all your paperwork is in order. You'll receive your registration certificate and decal on the spot. The decal must be displayed on your boat where it's visible from the water.

Registering by mail

Many California counties accept mail-in boat registration applications. To register by mail, complete Form REG 35, gather all required documents, and mail them to the DMV office that serves your county. Include a check or money order for the registration fee made out to the Department of Motor Vehicles. Do not send cash through the mail.

Mail your process to the address listed on the DMV website for your county. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks after the DMV receives your process. You can operate your boat while your process is being processed as long as you keep proof of submission with you on the boat. The DMV will mail your registration certificate and decal to your address once approval is complete.

Renewing your boat registration

Your boat registration is valid for two years from the date it's issued. About 60 days before your registration expires, the DMV will mail you a renewal notice. You can renew by mail, online, or in person at a DMV office. Renewing online is the fastest option if your registration is current and you have no changes to report.

To renew online, visit the California DMV website and use their online renewal system. You'll need your registration number and the renewal notice. If you renew by mail, complete the renewal form included with your notice and mail it with payment. If you renew in person, bring your registration certificate, proof of identity, and payment to any DMV office. Renewal fees are due on or before the expiration date to avoid operating an unregistered vessel.

Registering a boat from out of state

If you're moving to California with a boat registered in another state, you must register it with the California DMV within 20 days of establishing residency. Bring your out-of-state registration certificate, a bill of sale or proof of ownership, completed Form REG 35, proof of identity, and proof of California residency. The DMV will cancel your out-of-state registration and issue a California certificate.

You can operate your boat on California waters with your out-of-state registration for up to 20 days while you complete the California registration process. After 20 days, you must have a California registration certificate or you cannot legally operate the boat. If you own property in California but maintain residency in another state, you may be able to keep your out-of-state registration; contact your local DMV office to discuss your situation.

What happens if your boat registration expires or is lost

Operating a boat with an expired registration in California is illegal and can result in a citation. If your registration has expired, renew it when ready using the same process described above. If you've lost your registration certificate or decal, you can request a replacement by completing Form REG 35 and paying a replacement fee. Submit your request in person at a DMV office or by mail.

If your boat is damaged, destroyed, or no longer in your possession, you should cancel your registration to avoid renewal notices and fees. To cancel, contact your local DMV office with proof of the boat's status. If your boat is stolen, file a police report and notify the DMV with a copy of the report.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register a boat that I only use on private property?

No. Boats used only on private property that are not operated on public waterways do not need to be registered. However, if you ever operate the boat on any public water in California, including lakes, rivers, bays, or the ocean, registration is required.

Can I register a boat if I don't have a California driver's license?

Yes. You need proof of identity and proof of California residency, but a driver's license is not required. A passport, state ID, or tribal ID works as proof of identity. A utility bill, lease, or bank statement showing your name and California address works as proof of residency.

What if I buy a boat from a private seller who doesn't have the registration certificate?

Contact the California DMV to request the previous owner's registration information. Bring your bill of sale and proof of identity to a DMV office, and staff can help you locate the registration record. You may need to wait for the previous owner to sign off on the transfer, or the DMV can guide you through the process if the previous owner is unavailable.

How long does it take to get a California boat registration?

In-person registration at a DMV office usually takes a few minutes to an hour if your paperwork is complete. Mail-in registration takes two to three weeks after the DMV receives your process. You can operate your boat while your process is being processed if you have proof of submission with you.

What is the decal and where does it go on my boat?

The decal is a sticker that proves your boat is registered. It must be displayed on the outside of your boat where it's clearly visible from the water, usually on the hull near the waterline. The DMV will tell you the exact placement requirements when you receive your registration.