Last verified: April 24, 2026
Before you use a motorized boat on North Carolina public waters, you need to register it with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Here’s what’s required and how to do it.
Who Must Register
- All motorized vessels on public waters — including those with an electric trolling motor
- Sailboats longer than 14 feet
- Personal watercraft (PWC) such as Jet Skis
- U.S. Coast Guard documented vessels operated in NC waters for more than 90 consecutive days
Non-motorized vessels propelled only by paddles or oars — canoes, kayaks, rowboats, rafts — are exempt.
What You Need
Submit a completed, signed Form VL-1 (Vessel Registration and Title Application) along with proof of ownership:
- New vessel from a dealer: Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO), or dealer bill of sale with the 12-digit Hull Identification Number (HIN)
- Private-party purchase: Original NC or out-of-state title (notarized), or notarized bill of sale
- USCG documented vessel: Certificate of Documentation
If the vessel has multiple owners, each must sign a separate Form VL-1.
How to Apply
- Online: GoOutdoorsNorthCarolina.com
- By phone: (800) 628-3773
- By mail: NC Wildlife Resources Commission
- In person: through a local Wildlife Service Agent
How Long Registration Lasts
You can register for 1 or 3 years. Three-year registration is usually the better value if you plan to keep the vessel. See NC boat registration fees for 2026 for the full cost breakdown.
If your vessel needs a title, see Do You Need a Boat Title in North Carolina?
BoatForms helps you complete the NC VL-1 accurately before you submit.