Most new boats must be registered through the California Department of Motor Vehicles before they can be sailed.

VESSELS THAT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. Any powerboat
2. Sailboats longer than eight feet

VESSELS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. New boats owned by non-residents who will primarily use the boat out-of-state
2. A sailboat without a motor, or any boat eight feet or less in length
3. Any boat that is propelled only by oars or paddles
4. Boats registered in another state and not used being in California
5. Surfboards or sailboards
6. A ship's lifeboat
7. Racing boats brought into the State for racing or maintenance

TO REGISTER IN PERSON

• You can register a boat in person by visiting your local DMV office.
• You must bring a completed boat registration application (BOAT 101 form) and proof of ownership such as a bill of sale, invoice, bill of lading, certificate of origin, or out-of-state title.

TO REGISTER BY U.S. MAIL

The boat registration application and proof of ownership can also be mailed to:

CA Department of Motor Vehicles
P.O. Box 942869
Attn: Vessel Section
Sacramento, CA 94269-0001    

FEES

Boat registration fees range from $19 to $37, depending on the year of registration and whether the applicant is a State resident or not. See here for a more detailed breakdown of the registration fees In addition, vessels registered in California are subject to property taxes in the county in which the vessel is stored or moored.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Both the vessel registration number and hull identification numbers must be clearly displayed on the vessel, according to California requirements.
• Commercial vessels of five net tons or more or 30 feet or more in length must be registered with the U.S. Coast Guard only, and not with the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
• For additional information, see the ABCs of the California Boating Law