What are the legal requirements for registering a boat?

In New York, anyone operating a vessel, including a motorboat, kayak, or canoe, is required to register their boat. This includes any vessel that uses a mechanical motor, even if it is attached to a sailboat or any other form of vessel. Additionally, any vessel that is propelled by a manual motor, such as oars or paddles, must be registered if it is longer than 12 feet or used in public waters. Registration is handled by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, and it requires the vessel’s owner to complete an application that includes basic information about the boat, including its make, year, length, and motor size. The owner must also submit a fee along with the application, as well as proof of insurance. Owners who wish to register their boat must also provide proof that the boat has been inspected and certified by the U.S. Coast Guard. A boat must be inspected annually to ensure that it meets all applicable safety regulations and that all necessary safety equipment is up-to-date. Once registered, a boat’s owner will be issued a Certificate of Number, often referred to as a “registration card.” This card should be on board the vessel whenever it is in use. Failure to register a boat or carry the registration card can result in fines or even seizure of the vessel in some cases. Therefore, it is important for boat owners to understand the legal requirements for registering a boat and to always abide by them.

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What are the legal requirements for registering a boat?

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