Boating is a popular pastime in New York, with over 500,000 registered boats in the state. If you're a boat owner in New York, it's important to know how to properly register your vessel with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Registering your boat is not only a legal requirement, but it also ensures that you have the proper documentation to operate your vessel on New York's waterways. In this blog post, we'll take a look at the steps you need to follow to register your boat in New York.

Step 1: Gather your documentation

Before you can register your boat in New York, you'll need to gather some important documents. These include:

·        Proof of ownership: This can be in the form of a bill of sale, manufacturer's statement of origin, or a previous registration or title signed over to you.

·        Hull identification number (HIN): This is a unique identifier assigned to your boat by the manufacturer. It can usually be found on the transom or stern of your vessel.

·        Proof of sales tax payment: If you purchased your boat within the last 90 days, you'll need to provide proof of sales tax payment. If you haven’t paid tax on the purchase of the boat, you will need to do so when you register.

·        Proof of identity such as a driver’s license or state-issued ID.

·        Completed Boat Registration/Title Application form, also known as the MV82B. You can find this at the DMV’s website here.

Step 2: Submit the registration form

Once you have your documentation in order, you'll need to complete the registration form and bring it with you in person to the local DMV. You’ll also need to bring either check, cash, or credit card for the registration fees.

Step 3: Pay the registration fee

The registration fee for boats in New York is based on the length of the vessel. Here is the fee schedule as of 2023:

·        Under 16 feet: $26.50

·        16 to 26 feet: $57.60

·        26 feet and over: $93.75

Step 4: Display your registration number

Once you've completed the registration process and paid the fees, you'll need to display your registration number and decal on your vessel. The registration number should be displayed on the forward half of your boat on both sides, using block letters that are at least 3 inches high.

Conclusion

In conclusion, registering your boat in New York is a straightforward process that requires some basic documentation and a fee payment. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your vessel is properly registered and ready for use on New York's waterways.