Tuesday, March 12, 2024

How To Register Your Boat In Michigan

How Do I Permanently Affix My Hull Identification Number To My Boat

Do I need to register my boat? – iboats.com

A HIN is required for recreational boats manufactured after November 1, 1972. If the HIN is assigned by DNR, or if the HIN is known but the plate is missing or the HIN not inscribed on the boat, the boat owner is responsible for permanently affixing the HIN to the boat.

Each hull identification number must be carved, burned, stamped, embossed, molded, bonded, or otherwise permanently affixed to the boat so that alteration, removal, or replacement would be obvious. If the number is on a separate plate, the plate must be fastened in such a manner that its removal would normally cause some scarring of or damage to the surrounding hull area. A hull identification number must not be attached to parts of the boat that are removable. The characters of each hull identification number must be no less than one-fourth of an inch high.

Two identical hull identification numbers are required to be displayed on each boat hull.

  • Primary Location. If the hull identification number would not be visible, because of rails, fittings, or other accessories, the number must be affixed as near as possible to the location specified below.
  • On boats with transoms, to the starboard outboard side of the transom within two inches of the top of the transom, gunwale, or hull/deck joint, whichever is lowest.
  • On catamarans and pontoon boats which have readily replaceable hulls, to the aft crossbeam within one foot of the starboard hull attachment.
  • I Received A Letter Asking For Additional Documents Can I Fax Or Email These Documents

    If you receive a notification stating additional documents are needed to process your boat registration, the documents may be uploaded using your online account, or sent by fax or email. Make sure to send only copies and keep the original for your records.

    The email address for documents is:

    The fax number for documents is:678-515-9470

    The mailing address for documents is:Georgia Department of Natural ResourcesP.O. Box 934943

    Complete Accurate And Signed Application And Forms

    If a boat registration is submitted online, the online process includes an electronic attestation in lieu of a signature.

    • All fields on the application and forms are required unless stated otherwise. Incomplete applications will result in processing delays. A complete list of applications and forms is provided here.
    • All primary and additional owners that are individuals must provide their name, address, date of birth and one of the following identifiers:
    • DNR Customer ID number
    • Social Security Number
    • Drivers license number
  • All primary and additional owners that are non-individuals must provide the name, address, and taxpayer ID number of the business/trust/government.
  • Application must also include the boats model name and model year of vessel.
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    Boater Safety Courses In Michigan

    Michigan boat registration is the first step for drivers to legally operate a vessel. After a boater completes his or her registration, he or she may be required to complete a boater safety course. Boaters born after June 30, 1996 and most other drivers are required to complete a boater safety course in order to receive their boater education card.

    Boater safety classes are offered online or in a classroom setting. Boaters must pass any final exams to complete the course and receive their boater education card. After registering a boat, drivers can find local boater safety classes through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources official website.

    Requirements For Boater Registration In Michigan

    Installing your Michigan MC numbers

    Michigan boat registration is a vital component of owning and operating a vessel. All requirements must be followed to ensure that your registration is successfully processed, allowing you to hit the water without any worries. New boat registration can be completed if the boater presents certain documents to prove ownership of the vessel, which includes the bill of sale or certificate of title.

    Additionally, certain processing fees must be paid to complete the registration process. Once your registration is processed, you will receive a sticker with your registration number on it. The Certificate of Number must always be displayed on the boat.

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    Michigan Marine Law & Boater Safety

    Need a brochure to share with your fellow boaters? Download and print here.

    A complete handbook of Michigan Boating Laws and Responsibilities is available for download here.

    It is the Responsibility of the Water Craft Operator to know current laws, this information is subject to change. Visit the Michigan DNR boating safety website for the most up to date information.

    I. SPEED LIMITS

    1. Slow no wake speed within 100 feet of the shoreline, moored and anchored watercraft, pier, person, raft, swimming area, and swimmers.

    2. Maximum speed 55 m.p.h. in all water unless otherwise regulated.

    3. Michigan law states that a person operating a vessel shall operate it in a careful and prudent manner and at such a rate of speed so as not to unreasonably endanger the life or property of any person. A person shall not operate a vessel at a rate of speed greater than will permit him, in the exercise of reasonable care, to bring the vessel to stop within an assured clear distance ahead.

    4. A person shall not operate a vessel in a manner so as to unreasonably interfere with other persons lawfully using Michigans water resources.

    SLOW NO WAKE ! Means operating at a very slow to speed in order to minimize the wake created by your vessel.

    II. TOWING OF PERSONS

    1. No water skiing between one hour after sunset and one hour prior to sunrise. For a PWC , no towing between sunset and 8:00am.

    III. DISTANCE BETWEEN PERSONS BEING TOWED AND OTHER OBJECTS

    IV. COUNTER-CLOCKWISE OPERATIONS

    Information For Boat Dealers Registering Customers Boats

    Some boat dealers help customers register their boat, and some dealers may also be involved in helping the lienholder obtain security records or lienholder documents. The following information may help.

    Boat Registration

    If dealers are helping the customer with their boat registration, they may do so by mail application, online, or by phone.

    If mail, the dealer should submit:

  • the paper registration application signed by the boat owner
  • the bill of sale from dealer to new owner,
  • the original transferred MSO from dealer to owner if a new boat,
  • the bill of sale from the previous owner of record to the dealer if a used boat,
  • check or money order to the Department of Natural Resources.
  • If online, the transaction must be done in the primary boat owners GoOutdoorsGeorgia DNR account, and the boat owner must certify that all information is correct.

  • Boat information will be completed online,
  • Payment is by credit card,
  • After payment, upload the bill of sale from dealer to new owner, the transferred MSO from dealer to owner if a new boat, and the bill of sale from the previous owner of record to the dealer if a used boat.
  • If the owner is not present to certify all information is correct, from the account, print a pre-filled registration form and have the owner sign and upload that signed form to the account.
  • Mail the original transferred MSO if a new boat to GA Dept of Natural Resources, PO Box 934943, Atlanta GA 31193-4943.
  • If by telephone:

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    Can You Register A Boat In Another State

    Now that you have understood that a boat cannot be registered in two states simultaneously. Now, you might be wondering whether a boat can be registered in the state where you wont live. Lets find out.

    A boat can be registered in other states other than where you live, and there is no rule like a boat should only be registered in the state where you live. But you do need to tell an address within that state where it will be kept. So, its FINE to register a boat in other states where you wont live.

    Most states stipulate that a boat should be registered in a state where it is used principally or docked or moored. So, every state will have its own version of the rules, but it is generally acceptable to have the boat and the trailer registered in different states other than where you live.

    But most states require proof of residency of some sort to register in that state. So, the proof is essential where you keep the boat. And it is always much more comfortable to register it in the state you live in unless you store the boat in another state.

    Therefore, it is good to register your boat where you intend to use it is most likely aligned with the state requirements. The only problem you may face here is if you take the boat out of the state where it is not registered for a long period of time .

    Related post Check my article on What boats are exempt from registration? to know some of the factors that exempt a boat from registration.

    A Boat Has Been Left On My Property How Do I Take Control Of The Boat

    Boating Basics: How to Register your Boat

    Georgias Abandoned Vessel Code, O.C.G.A 52-7-70 through O.C.G.A. 52-7-77, details the steps required in order to declare a vessel abandoned by the State of Georgia. An Abandoned Vessel Package put together by WRD Law Enforcement Section is a helpful guide that contains required forms and outlines processes that may be used to declare a vessel abandoned under Georgia law.

    The two key forms to initiate the process, the Abandoned Vessel Notice and Information Request directed to both Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Georgia Bureau of Investigation can be found in the Abandoned Vessel Package. These must be completed with as much information as is known and submitted to the Agency and addresses noted at the top of each form.

    If the vessel was abandoned at a storage facility and you have a copy of a contract with the individual that stored the vessel indicating that the vessel was “Specified collateral” and the individual defaulted on that contract, then all you have to do is complete the Default of Security Interest/Transfer Statement to transfer the vessel into your name. It will not be necessary to go through the “Abandoned Vessel” process whenever self-storage facilities contract with individuals and the property stored is “Specified Collateral” and the customer defaults on that security interest.

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    Where To Register Your Boat

    You have two options for submitting your registration application.

    Option 1: Online

    Sign into your GoWILD customer account at GoWild.WI.Gov and fill out your boat registration application online. Using the online site to transfer a titled boat will require you to mail in the boat Certificate of Title and any supporting documents to complete the transfer of ownership. Once your online boat registration application is submitted, you will have the option to print a 60-day temporary operating receipt which can be used to immediately operate your boat until registration materials arrive in the mail.

    Note: For boats 16 feet or longer, you must mail in the boat title, MSO and other supporting documents to complete the transaction. Until then, your boat transaction will be in pending status.

    Option 2: Mail

    All fields on the Boat Registration and Titling Application or on the Fleet Boat Registration and Titling Application are required unless stated otherwise. See below for additional application and forms. Incomplete applications will result in processing delays. If you mail in your complete registration application, you must wait until your new certificate of registration and decals arrive in the mail before you can legally operate your boat. The only exception is if the application was completed and submitted on your behalf by a DNR authorized boat dealer.

    Mail complete application to:PO BOX 78701Milwaukee, WI 53278-0701

    Personal Watercraft Laws Vs Boating Laws

    A personal watercraft is defined as designed to be operated by one or more people positioned on the confines of the whole.For example, a jet ski is a personal watercraft. Rules between boats and personal watercraft differ in Michigan. Personal watercraft laws in Michigan include:

  • Operators must wear a lanyard-type engine cut-off on their vest. This shuts down the engine in the event the operator falls off.
  • Operators cant ride a personal watercraft after sunset and before 8 a.m.
  • Personal watercraft cant cross within 150 feet of the rear of another vehicle unless doing so slowly.
  • Operators cant ride personal watercraft in depths of less than 2 feet unless doing so slowly.
  • In the Great Lakes, a personal watercraft has to maintain a distance of 200 feet or more.
  • Michigan law makes it very clear that the owner of a personal watercraft is liable for injuries whether or not theyre operating it during the accident. This means to be careful who you loan your personal watercraft out to. Always make sure its covered under insurance.

    The personal injury attorneys at Sinas Dramis Law Firm are experienced in handling boating accident cases. If youve been injured in an accident, we can help. Call us today at or submit this form and well be in touch for a free, confidential initial case evaluation.

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    Where Can I Get Boat Registration Numbers In Michigan

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    Summer is officially here! If you live in Michigan most likely you or someone you know owns a watercraft. To make sure you are ready for the waves Signarama Troy can produce boat registration number decals. Follow the guidelines below from www.michigan.gov to ensure smooth sailing this season!

    All watercraft, unless exempt, must be registered with the Department of State and display a registration decal. Once a registration number has been assigned, it cannot be transferred to another watercraft. For most watercraft, the registration fee is based on length. All registrations expire on March 31 in the third year of issuance.

    Watercraft exempt from registration are:

    • Those 16 feet or shorter, propelled by oars or paddles, and not used for rental or commercial purposes
    • Nonmotorized canoes and kayaks not used for rental or commercial purposes, rafts, surfboards, sailboards, and swim floats, regardless of length and
    • Watercraft registered in another state and used only temporarily in Michigan.

    Boats are numbered according to state and federal regulations. These regulations help protect people from careless boat operators and improperly equipped boats. A Certificate of Number is issued to tell enforcement officers that a boat is properly registered. The numbers must be displayed properly on the boat.

    The law requires:

  • The figures are to be read from left to right.
  • Boat registration numbers must be bold, block letters of good proportion.
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    Placement Of Michigan Mc Registration Numbers

    How to Apply Boat Registration Numbers Like a Pro

    The following information from the guide to Michigan MC number sticker placement can be found on the State of Michigan web site.

    Watercraft Registration Number:

    Watercraft owners must paint or permanently attach the assigned registration number on each side of the forward half of the vessel as high above the water line as possible. The number must contrast with the color of the background so it is visible and legible.

    All letters and numbers must be plain block characters at least 3 inches high, reading from left to right. Place a hyphen or leave space equivalent to the width of your letter M between the letters and numbers.

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    Mi Vessels To Title & Register

    The Michigan SOS requires registration for all vessels used on public waters. The only exemptions are:

    • Vessels 16 ft. long or less, powered by oars or paddles AND not used for commercial or rental purposes.
    • Rafts, surfboards, sailboards, and swim floats .
    • Canoes and kayaks that don’t have a motor AND aren’t used for rental or commercial purposes.
    • Watercraft currently registered in another state being used in Michigan on a temporary basis.

    Additionally, the following types of watercraft must be titled with the MI SOS:

    • Vessels measuring 20 ft. or more in length.
    • Boats with permanent motors.

    Contact the SOS if you’re unsure about whether your boat requires a title and/or registration.

    A Block Style Font Such As Generally Located On The Forward Hull Portion Of The Boat Next To The Dnr Tag

    How to get mc number for boat in michigan. You will find that this information can vary slightly by state. Michigan boat registration numbers begin with an mc designation which is followed by four numbers and then two letters. How to get mc number for boat in michigan.

    How to get mc number for boat in michigan. Bring your watercraft registration or the mc number when renewing at a secretary of state office. A boat registration number is its license plate and is comprised of letters and numbers that must be displayed on the hull, near the bow, on the front third of the boat on both sides.

    If the watercraft is not titled, simply complete the back of your watercraft registration. Any motorized boat in the united states must contain boat registration numbers on the hull of the boat. If you have lost the registration, then a complete bill of sale with the year, make, hull identification number, mc registration number and the names and addresses of the buyer and seller may be used to transfer ownership.

    . Include additional information, such as the type of boat make and model, if available. This section will provide you with information such as where to purchase a fishing license, and how to register a boat in michigan.

    How do i get operating authority ? Fill out section 3 with the registration number of the boat in the license plate or registration number area. Boat registration fees depends on the type of vessel and its length.

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    Can I Keep My Existing Boat Registration Numbers If They Expire

    Once a boat registration has expired, the numbers may be reassigned. Generally if the boat registration expired within the last calendar year, it is likely that the numbers have not been reassigned. The longer a boat goes unregistered, the more likely it is that the numbers will be reassigned and no longer available for the previous customers use.

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