How To Register A Boat In Tennessee?

Last Updated on October 1, 2022

In Tennessee, all boats must be registered with the state before they can be used on public waterways. The process is relatively simple and can be done online or in person at a local Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency office.

To register your boat in the state of Tennessee, you will need to submit a completed Vessel Registration Application, as well as proof of ownership, to the Division of Regulatory Services within the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.

If you have recently purchased the boat from a dealer, they may be able to assist you with the registration process. In addition, you will need to pay a registration fee and a certificate of number fee. The registration fee for most boats is $10, but it may be higher for larger vessels.

Why Do You Need to Register Your Boat in Tennessee?

You need to register your boat in Tennessee if you want to use it on state waterways. Registration provides proof of ownership and helps law enforcement identify boats that may be stolen or involved in accidents. It also helps ensure that only properly equipped and safe boats are allowed on the water.

To register your boat, you’ll need to provide proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale or transfer of title. You’ll also need to provide the boat’s hull identification number (HIN), length, model year, and type. Fees for registration vary depending on the length of the boat.

Once your boat is registered, you’ll receive a Certificate of Number and decals that must be displayed on the boat. The Certificate of Number must be aboard the vessel at all times and should be available for inspection upon request by a law enforcement officer.

Registration is valid for three years and must be renewed prior to its expiration date. Boat owners will receive a renewal notice by mail approximately two months before the registration expires.

How To Register A Boat In Tennessee?

Boat registration in Tennessee is handled by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). The TWRA requires all boats operating on Tennessee waters to be registered, with the exception of canoes, kayaks, and non-motorized sailboats.

To register your boat, you will need to complete a Boat Registration Application and submit it to the TWRA. You will also need to pay a registration fee, which is based on the length of your boat. The following is a step-by-step guide on how to register a boat in Tennessee:

Step 1: Complete a Boat Registration Application. You can get this form from the TWRA website or from a TWRA office.

Step 2: Include the following information on the application:

• The boat owner’s name, address, and telephone number
• The boat hull identification number (HIN)
• A description of the boat, including its length, width, and type of hull
• The name under which the boat will be registered
• The proposed use of the boat
• The name and address of the lienholder, if any

Step 3: Submit the completed application to the TWRA, along with the required fees. You can submit your application and fees by mail, in person at a TWRA office, or online.

Step 4: Once your application has been processed, you will receive a Certificate of Number and decals for your boat. You must display the decals on your boat as required by law.

Step 5: You must renew your boat registration every three years. The TWRA will mail you a renewal notice prior to the expiration of your registration.

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Boat in Tennessee?

The cost of registering a boat in Tennessee depends on the length of the vessel and whether it is used for commercial or recreational purposes. For recreational boats, the fee is $24 for vessels up to 16 feet long, $35 for those between 16 and 26 feet, and $50 for those over 26 feet.

For commercial boats, the fee is $100 for vessels up to 26 feet long, and $200 for those over 26 feet. There is also a one-time titling fee of $11.50. If you are registering a boat that is leased, rented, or borrowed, there is an additional fee of $5.00. Finally, if you are paying by credit card, there is a 2.5% convenience fee.

So, in total, the cost of registering a boat in Tennessee can range from $24 to $211.50, depending on the length and use of the vessel, as well as whether you are paying by cash or credit card.

Benefits of Registering Your Boat in Tennessee?

If you’re looking for a place to register your boat, Tennessee is a great option. Here are just a few of the benefits of registering your boat in Tennessee:

• You’ll have access to some of the best waterways in the country.
• You’ll be able to take advantage of Tennessee’s boating laws and regulations, which are designed to keep boaters safe and protect the state’s waterways.
• You’ll be able to enjoy the many benefits that come with being a Tennessee resident, including access to discounts on boat insurance and registration fees.
• You’ll be supporting the state’s economy by paying into the Tennessee Boat Registration Fund, which is used to maintain and improve the state’s waterways.
• You’ll be able to take advantage of the many recreational opportunities that Tennessee has to offer, including fishing, swimming, and boating.

So if you’re looking for a great place to register your boat, Tennessee is definitely worth considering.

How Long Does the Boat Registration Process Take?

The process of registering a boat in Tennessee can vary depending on the type of boat and the county in which it will be registered. In general, however, the process is relatively straightforward and can be completed in a matter of days.

To begin, you will need to gather the necessary paperwork, which includes a bill of sale, the boat’s title (if applicable), and a completed application for registration. You will also need to provide proof of insurance and payment for the required fees. Once you have all of the required documents, you can take them to your local county clerk’s office to begin the registration process.

The clerk will review your paperwork and enter the information into the system. Once the registration is complete, you will be given a registration decal to place on your boat. The entire process usually takes less than a week to complete.

So, there you have it! Registering a boat in Tennessee is a relatively simple process that can be completed in just a few days. Be sure to gather all of the necessary paperwork and fees before heading to your local county clerk’s office. And, don’t forget to display your registration decal on your boat once everything is complete.

What Is the Renewal Process for Boat Registrations in Tennessee?

The renewal process for boat registrations in Tennessee is simple and can be done online.

• The first step is to log into the Tennessee Department of Revenue’s website.
• From there, you will need to enter your boat’s identification number and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
• Once you have entered this information, you will be able to renew your boat registration.
• You will need to pay the renewal fee, which is currently $24, and then you will be able to print out your new registration certificate.
• It is important to note that you must renew your boat registration by December 31st of every year.

Wrap Up

If you’re a Tennessean who loves spending time on the water, it’s important to make sure your boat is registered and legal. We’ve outlined all of the steps you need to take in order to register your vessel in Tennessee.

Also, the costs involved and some of the benefits of doing so. Boat registration can be a quick and easy process if you have all of the necessary information handy, so be sure to read our guide before getting started.