Many boat owners say the two happiest days in a boat owner’s life are the day they purchase their boat and the day that they sell their boat. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) wants to remind Hoosiers of watercraft registration and titling requirements so they don’t get caught adrift with the paperwork ahead of any maiden voyages this Fourth of July weekend.
Prospective boat buyers and sellers should be aware that all watercraft operating on Indiana waterways must be registered and titled with the BMV and display valid watercraft decals unless otherwise exempt.
Proof of ownership is required to register your watercraft. This can be established with the boat’s title or by filling out a Watercraft Ownership Affidavit (available here on the BMV’s website).
Once registered, owners will receive a certificate of registration, a registration number, and two decals. Certificates of registration must be kept on the watercraft and be accessible whenever it is in use, just as you would keep the registration for a car with the vehicle.
The registration number must be clearly displayed on the watercraft’s bow above the waterline. The owner is responsible for affixing the registration number. Numbers and letters for the registration number are not provided by the BMV. Decals must be placed within three inches to the right of the registration number or on each side of the forward half of the bow.
Just like regular passenger vehicles, watercraft registrations must be renewed annually before their scheduled expiration date.
Hoosiers must apply for a certificate of title for their watercraft
Some common non-motorized watercraft including canoes, rowboats, and paddleboats are exempt from registration and titling requirements. A full list of exempt watercraft is available here on the BMV’s website.
The BMV encourages safe boating practices and encourages all boaters to familiarize themselves with this Handbook of Indiana Boating Laws and Responsibilities from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Additionally, DNR requires a permit to use a watercraft on a body of water at many state parks. More information on permits is available on DNR’s website.
Gas tax savings for Hoosiers going for another month
Public advised to remain alert for pavement failures during heat wave
Governor Braun highlights America 250 Celebrations, encourages communities to participate with sSpecial grant program
Know your fireworks laws, safety this holiday season
LCMH receives recognition from American Heart Association program
New dean announced at Vincennes University
NWS issues weather upgrade
Indiana 211 has information on community cooling centers
Indiana Gov. Braun directs state to reimburse local governments for gas tax holiday revenue
Ambulance service legislation headed to governor
Three arrested in Lawrence County
Cooling centers available in Vincennes during extreme heat
Keystone Cooperative announces next CEO
New universal child blood lead testing guidelines to begin in Illinois
Flood warning extended for Embarras River at Lawrenceville
Kroger members can now redeem Points for dollars off groceries in-store and online
NWS issues flash flood watch for southeastern Illinois
