As a marine dealer, your relationship with customers doesn’t end at the point of sale. One of the most valuable services you can offer is helping buyers understand the boat titling process—a critical step in establishing legal ownership and ensuring compliance with state regulations.
Why Boat Titling Matters
A boat title is the official document that proves ownership of a vessel, much like a car title. While not all states require boat titling, having one can streamline future sales, support financing, and protect against ownership disputes. As a dealer, being well-versed in your state’s requirements positions you as a trusted resource.
Key Steps in the Titling Process
Here’s how you can guide your customers through the process:
1. Know Your State’s Rules
Each state has its own titling and registration requirements. Encourage customers to check with their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Department of Natural Resources (DNR), or equivalent agency.
While often confused, registration and titling serve different purposes:
- Boat Registration: Required in most states for motorized boats and certain sailboats. It allows legal operation on public waters and involves displaying a registration number and decals on the hull.
- Boat Titling: Not required in every state, but where applicable, it provides legal ownership documentation. It’s especially important for boats being financed, as lenders often require a title to secure a lien. Also, boat, engine, and trailer have different titling requirements.
For example, in Georgia, boats are registered through the Georgia DNR, and there are eTitles.
2. Help Them Gather the Right Documents
Assist buyers in collecting the necessary paperwork, which typically includes:
- Proof of Ownership (e.g., bill of sale, Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin)
- Completed Application Forms (state-specific)
- Valid ID (driver’s license or government-issued ID)
Providing these documents at the time of sale can significantly reduce delays.
3. Support the Submission Process
Let customers know how they can submit their application:
- Online: Many states now offer digital portals.
- By Mail: Traditional submission is still an option.
- In Person: Some buyers may prefer visiting a local office.
You can even offer to walk them through the process or provide links to the appropriate portals.
4. Clarify Fees and Timelines
Titling fees vary by state and can range from free to a modest charge. Processing times also differ—some states may take several weeks to issue a title or registration.
5. Educate on Renewals and Transfers
Make sure customers understand how long their registration is valid and what’s required to transfer ownership in the future. For instance, Georgia registrations are valid for three years and expire on the last day of the owner’s birth month in the final year.
Additional Tips for Dealers
- Stay Informed: Regulations change. Keep up with your state’s latest boating laws and documentation requirements.
- Federal Documentation: For larger vessels (typically 5 net tons or more), customers may opt for federal documentation through the U.S. Coast Guard. This can be a selling point for commercial buyers or those seeking financing.
- Add Value: Consider offering titling assistance as part of your sales package. It’s a premium service that can make a big difference in customer satisfaction.
- Lienholder: If the boat is being financed, make sure that the correct lienholder name and address are recorded.
- Out-of-state customers: Consider partnering with a titling service provider to facilitate the titling process for customers who are not in your home state.
Final Thoughts
Titling and documenting vessels isn’t just a legal formality—it’s a cornerstone of responsible boat ownership. By helping your customers navigate these requirements, you’re not only protecting their investment but also reinforcing your dealership’s reputation as a trusted, knowledgeable partner in the marine industry.