Boat / Vessel Title & Registration Service
Owning a boat in Florida means ensuring it is properly titled and registered. Whether you are purchasing a new vessel, transferring ownership, or renewing your registration, Auto Tags & Titles of South Florida makes the process stress-free. Our team is here to help you navigate Florida’s boat titling and registration regulations.
Why Boat Title & Registration Matters
In Florida, all motorized boats, including personal watercraft (jet skis), must be titled and registered before they can be legally operated on state waters. Proper documentation helps with the following.
- Establish legal ownership of the vessel
- Prevent fraud and unauthorized transfers
- Ensure compliance with Florida boating laws
Allow easy identification in case of theft or damage
Boat Title Requirements
To title your boat in Florida, you must provide:
- A completed Application for a Certificate of Title (Form HSMV 82040)
- A bill of sale or dealer invoice
- Proof of payment of applicable sales tax
- Hull Identification Number (HIN) verification, if required
- Valid identification (e.g., driver’s license or passport)
If you purchased your boat from a private seller, a properly executed bill of sale and ensuring there are no outstanding liens are essential. If you need assistance with your title application, Auto Tags & Titles of South Florida is here to help.
Vessel Registration Process
Once your boat is titled, it must be registered with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). The registration process includes the following.
- Completing the necessary registration application
- Providing proof of boat title
- Paying the appropriate registration fees based on vessel length
Boats must display a registration number and validation decal on both sides of the bow. Registrations must be renewed annually or biennially. At Auto Tags & Titles of South Florida, we handle your boat or vessel registration, so you can skip the DMV hassle.
Who is Exempt from Boat Registration in Florida?
Certain vessels are exempt from registration in Florida, including:
- Non-motorized boats less than 16 feet in length
- Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards
- Vessels registered in another state and in Florida waters for less than 90 days
- S. government-owned boats
Not sure if your boat needs to be registered? Auto Tags & Titles of South Florida can help clarify your requirements.
Renewing Your Boat Registration
Boat registrations expire annually on the owner’s birth month or, for businesses, on June 30th. You can renew your registration through any of the following methods.
- Online (limited to certain cases)
- By mail (if you receive a renewal notice)
- In-person at authorized service centers like Auto Tags & Titles of South Florida
Transferring Ownership and Duplicate Titles
If you buy or sell a boat, you must transfer the title within 30 days to avoid late fees. The new owner must submit:
- A signed title from the previous owner
- A bill of sale
- Payment for transfer fees
Trust Auto Tags & Titles of South Florida for Vessel Titling
At Auto Tags & Titles of South Florida, we simplify the boat titling and registration process so you can focus on enjoying the water. Whether you need a new title, registration renewal, or ownership transfer, we provide efficient service.
Don’t let paperwork delay your time on the water — contact Auto Tags & Titles of South Florida!