North Carolina Boat Registration & Title Transfer
Form VL-1, fees, and titling — plus every NC guide in one place.
Before you run a motorized boat on North Carolina public waters, you have to register it with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission using Form VL-1 (Vessel Registration and Title Application). NC Wildlife — not the DMV — handles boat registration and titling together on the same form.
What you need to file
Submit a completed, signed Form VL-1 with proof of ownership for your situation:
- New vessel from a dealer: Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO), or a dealer bill of sale showing the 12-digit Hull Identification Number (HIN).
- Private-party purchase: the original NC or out-of-state title (notarized), or a notarized bill of sale.
- USCG-documented vessel: the Certificate of Documentation.
If the vessel has multiple owners, each owner signs a separate VL-1. You can apply online at GoOutdoorsNorthCarolina.com, by phone at (800) 628-3773, by mail, or through a local Wildlife Service Agent.
Fee snapshot
| Filing type | 1-year | 3-year |
|---|---|---|
| New / transfer + title (under 26 ft) | $71 | $131 |
| New / transfer + title (26 ft or greater) | $91 | $191 |
| Renewal (under 26 ft) | $34 | $94 |
| Registration without title (under 14 ft) | $36 | $96 |
Source: NC VL-1 form, revised 11/2025. See the full breakdown in NC boat registration fees for 2026.
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Read moreFrequently asked questions
Who has to register a boat in North Carolina?
All motorized vessels on public waters (including those with an electric trolling motor), sailboats longer than 14 feet, all personal watercraft, and USCG-documented vessels operated in NC waters for more than 90 consecutive days. Canoes, kayaks, and other paddle-only craft are exempt.
What form do I need to register or title a boat in NC?
Form VL-1, the Vessel Registration and Title Application. You submit a completed, signed VL-1 to the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission with proof of ownership. Boat registration in NC is handled by NC Wildlife, not the DMV.
Does my boat need a title in North Carolina?
A title is required for motorized vessels 14 feet or greater, all personal watercraft regardless of size, and any vessel with a lien. Motorized vessels under 14 feet do not require a title unless a lien is involved.
How much does it cost to register a boat in North Carolina?
For a vessel under 26 feet, a new registration with title is $71 for one year or $131 for three years; 26 feet and over is $91 (1-year) or $191 (3-year). Renewals are cheaper. Fees are set on the VL-1 form (revised 11/2025).