What Are The Regulations For Obtaining A Boating Registration In Tennessee?

What Are The Regulations For Obtaining A Boating Registration In Tennessee?

What are the regulations for obtaining a boating registration in Tennessee? If you are a boating enthusiast planning to explore the beautiful waters of Tennessee, it is essential to understand the process of obtaining a boating registration. By familiarizing yourself with the regulations, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience on the water. Read on to learn everything you need to know about obtaining a boating registration in Tennessee.

Why Do You Need to Register Your Boat?

Before we dive into the specifics of obtaining a boating registration in Tennessee, let’s first understand why it is essential to register your boat. Boat registration is a legal requirement in Tennessee, as it helps to ensure responsible boating practices and promotes safety on the water. By registering your boat, you are contributing to the overall management and conservation of the state’s water resources. Additionally, having a valid boating registration allows you to enjoy various recreational activities on Tennessee’s waterways without the worry of facing penalties or fines.

Registering Your Boat in Tennessee

The process of registering your boat in Tennessee is straightforward and can be completed through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). To register your boat, you will need to provide specific documentation and information, including details about the vessel, ownership, and identification. Additionally, you will be required to pay a registration fee, which varies based on the length of your boat. Once you have completed the registration process, you will receive a registration certificate and decal that must be displayed on your boat at all times.

Who Needs to Register Their Boat?

In Tennessee, all motorized vessels, including boats with gasoline, diesel, or electric motors, must be registered with the TWRA. Additionally, sailboats over eight feet in length are also required to be registered. However, there are certain exemptions to the registration requirements, such as:

• Non-motorized sailboats less than eight feet in length
• Non-motorized canoes and kayaks
• Vessels documented with the United States Coast Guard

Whether you are a resident or non-resident of Tennessee, if you plan to operate a motorized or sailboat on the state’s waterways, you must ensure that your vessel is properly registered.

Are There Any Age Requirements for Boat Registration?

While there are no age restrictions for registering a boat in Tennessee, operators born after January 1, 1989, are required to complete a boating education course approved by the TWRA. This course covers essential topics such as boating safety, navigation rules, and emergency procedures to ensure that boaters have the necessary knowledge and skills to operate watercraft safely. By completing the boating education course, you can obtain a boater education card, which must be kept on board while operating a vessel.

How to Register Your Boat in Tennessee

Now that you understand why boat registration is important and who needs to register their vessel let’s delve into the process of registering your boat in Tennessee. To register your boat, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Gather Required Documentation

Before you begin the registration process, make sure you have the following documents and information on hand:

• Proof of ownership (title or bill of sale)
• Completed boat registration application
• Hull Identification Number (HIN)
• Description of your boat (make, model, year, length, and hull material)
• Valid identification (driver’s license)
• Payment for registration fee

Step 2: Complete the Boat Registration Application

Once you have gathered all the necessary documentation, complete the boat registration application provided by the TWRA. Ensure that all information is accurate and up to date to avoid any delays in the registration process. You can either fill out the application online or visit a TWRA regional office to submit the form in person.

Step 3: Pay the Registration Fee

After completing the application, you will be required to pay the registration fee based on the length of your boat. The fee structure is as follows:

• Less than 16 feet: $13
• 16 to 26 feet: $20
• 26 to 40 feet: $35
• 40 feet and over: $53

You can pay the registration fee using various payment methods, including credit card, check, money order, or cash, depending on the option provided by the TWRA.

Step 4: Display Your Registration Certificate and Decal

Once your registration is approved, you will receive a registration certificate and decal from the TWRA. It is essential to display these items on your boat as required by law. The registration decal must be affixed to the port side of the vessel within six inches of the registration number. Additionally, the registration certificate must be kept on board and presented to wildlife officers upon request.

Renewing Your Boat Registration

After successfully registering your boat in Tennessee, it is crucial to keep your registration current and up to date. Boat registrations expire on December 31st of each year and must be renewed annually. To renew your boat registration, follow these steps:

Step 1: Check Your Registration Status

Before renewing your boat registration, check the expiration date of your current registration to ensure that you are within the renewal period. You can verify your registration status online through the TWRA website or by contacting a regional TWRA office for assistance.

Step 2: Renew Your Registration

To renew your boat registration, you will need to complete a renewal application and pay the required renewal fee. The renewal fee structure is the same as the initial registration fee based on the length of your boat. Ensure that all information on the renewal application is accurate and up to date to avoid any issues with the renewal process.

Step 3: Update Your Registration Decal

Upon successful renewal of your boat registration, you will receive a new registration certificate and decal from the TWRA. Be sure to remove the old registration decal and replace it with the new one on the port side of your vessel. Keep the new registration certificate on board and present it to authorities when requested.

Transferring Boat Registration in Tennessee

If you purchase a boat that is already registered in Tennessee, you will need to transfer the registration into your name. The process for transferring boat registration is similar to the initial registration process and involves the following steps:

Step 1: Obtain Necessary Documentation

To transfer a boat registration, you will need to provide the following documents:

• Current registration certificate
• Bill of sale or proof of ownership
• Completed transfer of registration application
• Payment for transfer fee

Step 2: Complete the Transfer Application

Fill out the transfer of registration application with accurate information and submit it along with the required documentation to the TWRA. Ensure that the information provided matches the details on the current registration certificate to avoid any discrepancies.

Step 3: Pay the Transfer Fee

Upon approval of the transfer application, you will be required to pay a transfer fee of $5 to transfer the registration into your name. The fee can be paid using various payment methods accepted by the TWRA, such as credit card, check, money order, or cash.

Step 4: Display Your Updated Registration

Once the transfer of registration is complete, you will receive a new registration certificate and decal with your name as the registered owner. Display the new registration decal on your boat in the designated location and keep the registration certificate on board as required by law.

Conclusion

Obtaining a boating registration in Tennessee is a straightforward process that involves gathering the necessary documentation, completing the registration application, paying the registration fee, and displaying your registration certificate and decal. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your boat is properly registered and compliant with Tennessee’s boating regulations. Remember to renew your boat registration annually, transfer the registration when purchasing a used boat, and complete a boating education course if required. Enjoy your time on Tennessee’s waterways responsibly and safely with a valid boating registration.