BOAT 100 Form – The BOAT 100 Form, officially titled Application for Historical Vessel Plaque, is the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) document used to request a special brass plaque for qualifying historical vessels. This form allows eligible boat owners to apply for recognition of their vessel’s historical significance under California Vehicle Code §9853.5.
The BOAT 100 is specifically designed for wooden, power-driven pleasure crafts built before December 31, 1942. Once approved, owners receive an 8-by-16-inch brass Historical Vessel Plaque that can be displayed on the vessel. The plaque is valid for the life of the vessel and is non-transferable.
Who Qualifies for a California Historical Vessel Plaque?
To qualify for a Historical Vessel Plaque using the BOAT 100 form, your vessel must meet these strict criteria set by the California DMV:
- It must be a wooden, power-driven pleasure craft.
- It must have been constructed prior to December 31, 1942.
- The vessel does not need to be currently registered or documented with the DMV or U.S. Coast Guard to apply.
The plaque recognizes the vessel’s historical interest and is issued only to the owner of the specific boat described on the application. It cannot be moved to another vessel.
Benefits of the Historical Vessel Plaque
Obtaining a California Historical Vessel Plaque through the BOAT 100 form offers several advantages:
- Official recognition of your classic wooden boat’s heritage.
- A durable brass plaque (8″ x 16″) that enhances the vessel’s aesthetic and historical value.
- Lifetime validity — no renewal required as long as the plaque remains on the original vessel.
- Pride of ownership for collectors and enthusiasts of pre-1943 wooden power boats.
The plaque serves as a visible tribute to California’s maritime history without affecting standard vessel registration requirements.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the BOAT 100 Application
Filling out the BOAT 100 Form is straightforward. Follow these steps for a complete and accurate submission:
- Download the official form (link provided below).
- Provide applicant information: Include your full name, mailing address, city, ZIP code, and daytime phone number.
- Enter vessel details: List the make of the vessel, Hull Identification Number (HIN), Coast Guard documentation number (if applicable), home port, and state registration number (if applicable).
- Declare historical status: Certify that the vessel meets the definition of historical interest under Vehicle Code §9853.5.
- Sign and date the form under penalty of perjury.
- Include the required fee (payable by check or money order — see fee section below).
- Mail the completed application to the DMV Special Processing Unit (address below).
Required Information on the BOAT 100 Form
The BOAT 100 (REV. 5/95) requires these key fields:
- Applicant Information: Name, address, city, ZIP code, daytime phone number.
- Vessel Information: Make of vessel, Hull Identification Number (HIN), Coast Guard Documentation Number (if any), Home Port, State Registration Number (if any).
- Fee: Indicate payment (current fee is $20).
- Certification: Signed statement confirming the vessel qualifies as historical under §9853.5.
- Signature and Date: Applicant’s signature and date of submission.
All fields must be completed accurately to avoid delays or rejection.
Where to Mail the BOAT 100 Form and Fee?
Do not submit the BOAT 100 form in person or through a local DMV office. Mail the completed application and fee to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Special Processing Unit, MS D238
PO Box 932345
Sacramento, CA 94232-3450
Processing typically occurs at this centralized unit. Keep a copy of your application and proof of mailing for your records.
Historical Vessel Plaque Fee and Processing Time
The current fee for a Historical Vessel Plaque is $20. This is a one-time, non-refundable fee.
The DMV does not publish an exact processing timeline on the form, but applications are handled through the Special Processing Unit. Allow several weeks for processing and delivery of the brass plaque. Contact the DMV if you have not received confirmation after 6–8 weeks.
Download the Official BOAT 100 PDF Form
You can download the most current version of the BOAT 100 Form directly from the California DMV website here:
This is the official, fillable PDF provided by the DMV. Always use the latest version from the DMV portal to ensure compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about BOAT 100 and Historical Vessel Plaques
Can I apply for a Historical Vessel Plaque if my boat is not registered?
Yes. Registration or documentation is not required for the BOAT 100 application.
Is the plaque transferable to another boat?
No. The plaque is issued for one specific vessel and may only be displayed on that vessel.
What type of vessels qualify?
Only wooden, power-driven pleasure crafts built before December 31, 1942.
Where can I find more information?
Visit the official California DMV website or refer to the Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual for full details on Historical Vessel Plaques.
For the most up-to-date information on the BOAT 100 form and Historical Vessel Plaque program, always check the California DMV website at dmv.ca.gov. This article is based on current DMV publications as of 2026.