BOAT 101 Form – The BOAT 101 form is the official California DMV document required to register most boats and vessels in the state. Also known as the Application for Registration Number, Certificate of Ownership, and Certificate of Number for Undocumented Vessel, this form assigns your vessel its unique CF registration number (starting with “CF”), issues a Certificate of Ownership (title), and provides validation stickers.
Whether you’re registering a new boat, transferring ownership, bringing a vessel from out of state, or replacing lost documents, the BOAT 101 PDF is your starting point for legal operation on California waterways.
Download the latest BOAT 101 form here:
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2024/12/BOAT-101-R12-2023-AS-WWW.pdf (Revision R12-2023 – current as of 2026).
What Is the BOAT 101 Form and Why Do You Need It?
The BOAT 101 is a mandatory 3-page application used by the California DMV to register undocumented vessels (most recreational boats). It collects vessel details, owner information, proof of ownership, and usage data to issue:
- A permanent CF vessel registration number
- A Certificate of Ownership (title)
- Registration stickers (and a separate Quagga/Zebra Mussel sticker for freshwater use)
You must register if your vessel is:
- A sailboat longer than 8 feet
- Any boat with a motor (any size)
- A dinghy, houseboat, jet ski, or kayak used on public waters
Registration is required even on private lakes or reservoirs in California. Exemptions are very limited (e.g., U.S. Coast Guard documented vessels over 5 net tons and 30+ feet).
Who Must File the BOAT 101 Form?
You need to submit the BOAT 101 in these common situations:
- Purchasing a new or used boat in California
- Bringing a boat into California from another state or country (within 120 days)
- Transferring ownership of a vessel
- Registering a homemade or previously unregistered vessel
- Replacing a lost Certificate of Number or title (may require additional forms like BOAT 227)
Nonresidents must register within 120 days of bringing the vessel into the state.
How to Download the Official BOAT 101 PDF?
The California DMV provides the BOAT 101 form as a free, fillable PDF.
Direct download link (official):
BOAT 101 – Application for Vessel Certificate of Number (R12-2023)
Always use the latest version directly from dmv.ca.gov to avoid processing delays. The form is 3 pages and includes clear instructions on the back.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Out the BOAT 101 Form?
The BOAT 101 is straightforward when completed accurately. Use black or blue ink and print clearly. Here’s what each section requires:
Section 1 – Vessel Information
- Check if the vessel is NEW, PRIOR NON-RESIDENT, etc.
- Enter Hull Identification Number (HIN) – required for boats built since 1972
- Select vessel use (Pleasure, Commercial, Rent/Lease, etc.)
- Provide make, model, length, year, vessel type, engine details, hull material, fuel type
- Enter purchase date, price (or gift/trade value), and dates first used/entered California
Section 2 – Registered Owner(s) Information
- Full legal name(s), date of birth, driver license/ID number
- Physical and mailing address
- Indicate “AND” or “OR” for co-owners
Section 3 – Location Where Vessel Is Principally Kept
- Address, marina, or county where the boat is usually stored
Section 4 – Legal Owner (Lien Holder)
- Bank/finance company details or write “None”
Section 5 – Registered Owner Signature(s)
- All owners must sign under penalty of perjury
Section 6 – Proof of Ownership
- Complete either Certificate of Sale (Part A) or Statement of Applicant (Part B)
- Attach bill of sale, manufacturer’s certificate of origin, or invoices
Section 7 – Emission Certification (if applicable)
- Required for certain inboard/sterndrive spark-ignition engines
Page 3 provides vessel use definitions and privacy notice.
Required Documents to Submit with BOAT 101
- Completed and signed BOAT 101
- Proof of ownership (title, bill of sale, manufacturer’s statement of origin)
- Payment for registration fees + any use tax
- Quagga/Zebra Mussel Sticker request (required for freshwater use – $16 fee)
If the title is lost, also submit BOAT 227. Trailers must be registered separately.
Where and How to Submit Your BOAT 101 Application?
Two easy options:
- In person – Any California DMV field office
- By mail – Department of Motor Vehicles, Vessels Unit, P.O. Box 942869, MS C271, Sacramento, CA 94269-0001
Processing is faster in person. You’ll receive a temporary receipt immediately and permanent documents by mail.
California Boat Registration Fees (Current as of 2026)
- Original registration (California residents): $29 (even or odd year)
- Nonresident original registration: $57 (even year) or $77 (odd year)
- Late penalty fees apply
- Use tax (based on purchase price)
- Quagga/Zebra Mussel Sticker: $16 (freshwater vessels only, renewed every 2 years)
Fees are subject to change. Check the official DMV registration fees page for the most current amounts and any exemptions (e.g., youth groups, government vessels).
Boat Registration Renewal and CF Number Display
- Renew every odd-numbered year by December 31 (even if the boat is not used)
- DMV mails a renewal notice 60 days in advance
- Display the CF number on both sides of the bow (3-inch block letters)
- Affix registration stickers and mussel sticker (if required) 3 inches behind the number
Common Questions About the BOAT 101 Form
Can I fill out the BOAT 101 online?
No – it must be printed, signed, and submitted with supporting documents.
How long does it take to get my CF number?
Immediate temporary receipt in person; permanent documents arrive by mail within weeks.
Do I need a Boater Card?
Yes – anyone operating a motorized vessel on California waters must complete a boating safety course and carry a California Boater Card.
Get Your BOAT 101 Form Processed Quickly
Registering your vessel with the BOAT 101 form ensures you can legally enjoy California’s waterways while staying compliant with state law. Always use the official DMV PDF linked above and double-check your information to avoid delays.
For the latest fees, forms, or field office locations, visit the official California DMV Boat/Vessel Registration page: dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-registration/new-registration/register-your-boat-vessel.
Stay safe and legal on the water – download your BOAT 101 PDF today!