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Washington DC BOAT LAWS

The District of Columbia Boat Titling Act requires any registered vessel that is principally used on District waters to obtain a Certificate of Title issued by the Harbor Master, prior to issuance or renewal of a registration number. To obtain a title, you must show proof of ownership and pay an initial $2 title fee and titling tax. Boat registration is similar to license plates on a car: all boats must be registered before the registration expires on December 31 each year. The Certificate of Number issued stays with the boat as long as it is registered in the District of Columbia. The certificate itself is pocket-sized and must be on the boat and available for inspection by law enforcement personnel whenever the boat is in operation. In addition, validation stickers are issued each year that must be placed within six inches of the number. Larger boats (generally 32 feet or longer) can be documented. Check with the US Coast Guard for more information.

It is illegal for the owner or person in control of a motorboat to allow someone who does not meet the age or boating education requirements to operate the vessel.