If you are planning to own and operate a boat in North Carolina, one of the first things you need to do is register it with the Wildlife Resources Commission. Boat registration is required for all vessels that are operated on public waters, including lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you register your boat in North Carolina.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

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

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

·        Valid ID: You'll need to present a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver's license.

·        Payment: You'll need to pay the registration fee, which varies depending on the length of your boat.

·        Completed NC Vessel Registration and Title Application (aka the VL-1 Form), available from the Wildlife Resources Commission’s website here.

Step 2: Complete the Registration Application

Once you have all the necessary documents, you can complete the boat registration application. You can obtain a copy of the application from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) website, or you can pick one up at any Wildlife Service Agent location.

The application will ask for basic information about your boat, including the make and model, length, hull material, and horsepower. You'll also need to provide your contact information and proof of insurance.

Step 3: Submit Your Application and Fees

Once you've completed the registration application, you can submit it to the NCWRC along with the required fees. You can submit your application and payment in person at any Wildlife Service Agent location or by mail to the address on the application. To submit your application by mail, send it to the following address.

North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission

Transaction Management

1709 Mail Service Center

Raleigh, NC, 27699-1700

If you are submitting the application by mail, you will also need to include payment for the registration fees. These can be paid by either check or money order made payable to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. The registration fees vary depending on the length of the boat and the duration of the registration. The full breakdown of registration fees is listed below.

Step 4: Display Your Registration Numbers and Decals

Once you've registered your boat, you'll need to display your registration numbers and decals. These should be displayed on the hull of your boat, near the bow, on both sides of the vessel. The numbers must be at least three inches tall and in a contrasting color to the hull.

The registration decals should be displayed on both sides of the boat, within six inches of the registration number. The decals should be clearly visible and intact.

Conclusion

In conclusion, registering your boat in North Carolina is a straightforward process that requires some basic documentation and a registration fee. Once you've completed the registration process, you can enjoy boating on North Carolina's beautiful waterways with peace of mind.