Paddle Boat Registration: North Carolina's Requirements

North Carolina has over 5,000 miles of waterways, so it's no surprise that boating is a popular pastime. If you're planning to take to the water in a paddle boat, it's important to know the local laws and regulations. In North Carolina, kayaks and canoes propelled solely by paddles or oars are considered non-motorized vessels and are exempt from registration. However, if your paddle boat has a motor, even an electric trolling motor, it must be registered with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. So, whether you need to register your paddle boat depends on its method of propulsion.

Motorized paddle boats must be registered

In North Carolina, motorized paddle boats must be registered with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. This applies to all motorized vessels used on public waters, including jet skis. The registration process can be completed in person or by mail, and you will need to submit a VL-1 Form (Registration & Titling) along with proof of ownership. The registration period can be chosen as one or three years, and you will receive a Renewal Notification two months before the expiry of your current registration.

It is important to note that non-motorized kayaks, canoes, and other vessels moved only by oars, paddles, or the current are exempt from registration in North Carolina. However, if you plan to use a motorized paddle boat in the state's public waters, registration is required.

The registration process is straightforward and can be completed by following these steps:

• Complete the VL-1 Form: This form is required for both registration and titling your motorized paddle boat. You can obtain this form from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website or a Local Wildlife Agent.
• Provide Proof of Ownership: You will need to submit proof of ownership, such as the original Manufacturer's Statement of Origin or a bill of sale. Make sure that the proof of ownership document includes the vessel's 12-digit hull identification number.
• Submit the Required Fees: There are fees associated with registering and titling your motorized paddle boat, and the cost depends on the length of your vessel and the registration period you choose. You can find the fee schedule on the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission website or by contacting their office.
• Display Registration Numbers and Decals: Once your application is approved, you will receive a Registration Number, a Registration Decal, and a Registration Card. The registration number must be displayed on both sides of the bow of your motorized paddle boat, using block letters that are at least three inches high and in a color that contrasts with the color of your boat. The validation decal should be affixed to the starboard bow within 6 inches of the registration number.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your motorized paddle boat is properly registered and compliant with North Carolina's boating regulations.

Non-motorized paddle boats are exempt from registration

The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is responsible for enforcing kayaking and canoeing rules and regulations in the state. While non-motorized kayaks and canoes are exempt from registration, motorized kayaks and canoes must be registered with the Commission. This includes vessels with electric trolling motors.

The registration process for motorized vessels in North Carolina involves submitting a VL-1 Form NC Vessel Registration & Title Application. This can be done either in-person at one of the many Wildlife Service Agents locations or through the mail. Once the application is approved, boat owners will receive a Registration Number, a Registration Decal, and a Registration Card.

It is important to note that while non-motorized paddle boats are exempt from registration, they may still be subject to other boating laws and regulations in North Carolina. For example, all vessels must be equipped with a Type I, II, or III personal flotation device for each person on board, and any persons under 13 years of age must wear a life jacket at all times.

In conclusion, non-motorized paddle boats in North Carolina are exempt from registration, but it is crucial to be aware of and comply with all other applicable laws and regulations to ensure safe and legal boating.

Registration is required for motorized boats with trolling motors

In North Carolina, all motorized vessels used on public waters must be registered. This includes vessels with trolling motors.

A trolling motor is considered a motorized vessel because it is a source of power other than manual labour. Therefore, any vessel with a trolling motor must be registered with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. This includes canoes with trolling motors.

The registration requirement applies to all motorized vessels used on public waters in North Carolina, including lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. The registration is valid for one or three years, depending on the term selected when applying.

To register your boat, you will need to complete a VL-1 Form (Registration & Titling) and provide proof of ownership. Once your application is approved, you will receive a Registration Number, a Registration Decal, and a Registration Card.

It is important to note that there are some exemptions to the registration requirement in North Carolina. Vessels that do not require registration include those that are unused and kept on dry land, rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and rafts moved only by oars, paddles, or the current, and vessels used only on private ponds. Additionally, vessels registered in another state and temporarily in North Carolina for fewer than 90 days are exempt.

Register in person or by mail

To register a paddle boat in North Carolina, you must complete a VL-1 Form (Registration & Titling) and submit it in person or by mail. In-person registration can be done at one of over 400 Wildlife Service Agents statewide or at the main North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission office.

If registering by mail, you must submit your VL-1 Form to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) office through a Wildlife Service Agent. The NCWRC must be notified in writing as soon as possible if the owner changes address, the boat is scrapped, or the boat is sold.

Regardless of the method of registration, you will need to provide proof of ownership, such as a notarized, original Manufacturer's Statement of Origin or a bill of sale. Make sure you have all the necessary documents before submitting your application.

Once your application is approved, you will receive a Registration Number, a Registration Decal, and a Registration Card. Your registration will be valid for one or three years, depending on the term you selected when applying. You will receive a Renewal Notification two months before your current registration expires, and you can renew your registration in person, by mail, or online.

Registration is valid for one or three years

In North Carolina, you must register any motorized vessel with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. This includes jet skis, sailboats longer than 14 feet, and vessels documented by the U.S. Coast Guard that remain in North Carolina for over 90 consecutive days.

To register your boat in North Carolina, you can submit your application in person at a Local Wildlife Agent or by mail. You will need to complete a VL-1 form and provide proof of ownership, such as a notarized Manufacturer's Statement of Origin or a bill of sale. Once your application is approved, you will receive a Registration Number, a Registration Decal, and a Registration Card. You will also receive a Renewal Notification two months before your registration expires, and you can renew your registration in person, by mail, or online.

Frequently asked questions