BOAT 227 Form – If you own a boat or vessel in California and your Certificate of Ownership (title) is lost, stolen, damaged, or missing, the BOAT 227 form is the official document you need. Also known as the Application for Replacement or Transfer Vessel Title, this California DMV form allows you to request a replacement vessel title quickly and legally. In this comprehensive guide, we cover everything about the BOAT 227 PDF, including how to download it, step-by-step filling instructions, required fees, submission process, and more. All information is based on the latest official California DMV resources as of 2026.
What Is the BOAT 227 Form?
The BOAT 227 is the California DMV’s dedicated Application for Replacement or Transfer Vessel Title. It is specifically designed for boats and undocumented vessels registered in California (identified by a CF registration number and Hull Identification Number or HIN). Unlike the REG 227 form used for vehicles, the BOAT 227 includes vessel-specific fields such as hull material, propulsion type, fuel, length, and use category (e.g., pleasure, commercial fishing, or charter).
This form serves two primary purposes:
- Replacement title only (complete Sections 1–4 for lost, stolen, illegible, or un-received titles).
- Transfer of ownership with replacement title (seller completes Sections 1–5; new owner completes Sections 7–8).
Issuing a replacement title cancels the original, so the form includes an indemnity statement protecting the DMV. It cannot be used to release a lien on an Electronic Lien Title (ELT) vessel.
Who Needs the BOAT 227 Form for Vessel Title Replacement?
You must use the BOAT 227 if you are a:
- Registered owner whose vessel title is lost, stolen, mutilated, illegible, or never received.
- Seller transferring ownership when the original title is unavailable.
- New owner completing a title transfer that requires a duplicate.
- Lienholder (legal owner) releasing interest (Section 6 requires notarization).
It is not needed for routine renewals or when the original title is available. California law requires all sailboats over 8 feet or motorized vessels (any size) to be registered and titled properly.
How to Download the Official BOAT 227 PDF?
The most current version of the form (New 11/2024) is available directly from the California DMV website. Download it here for free:
BOAT 227 PDF – Application for Replacement or Transfer Vessel Title
Always use the official DMV link to ensure you have the latest revision. The form is fillable online or printable. Do not use outdated versions, as they may be rejected.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the BOAT 227 Form
Follow these instructions exactly as outlined on the form and DMV guidelines. Use black or blue ink and print clearly.
Section 1: Vessel Information
- Enter the CF# (vessel number), HIN, make, model, year built, length, vessel type, engine drive, propulsion, fuel, hull material, and primary use.
- Indicate state of last registration and principal use.
Section 2: Registered Owner(s) Information
- Provide true full legal name(s), date of birth (individuals), driver license/ID number, physical and mailing addresses, and county where the vessel is principally kept.
- Businesses include Tax ID.
Section 3: Legal Owner of Record (Lienholder)
- List the bank, finance company, or individual holding the lien (if any). Do not repeat registered owner names.
Section 4: Missing Title Statement (for replacement only)
- Check the reason: Lost, Stolen, Illegible/Mutilated (attach old title), Not Received from Prior Owner, or Not Received from DMV.
- Sign and date. Include phone/email. You agree to indemnify the DMV.
Sections 5–6: Releases (for transfers)
- Registered owners release ownership (all “AND” co-owners must sign).
- Legal owner release (Section 6) must be notarized.
Sections 7–8: New Owner Information (for transfers)
- New registered owner(s) provide purchase date, price (or market value if gift), name, address, and signatures.
- New legal owner (if financed) details go in Section 8.
Section 9: Dealer Release (if applicable)
- For dealerships releasing acquired vessels.
Important tips:
- If your address differs from DMV records, apply in person with proof of ownership (e.g., registration card) and your DL/ID.
- If a replacement was issued within the last 90 days, a CHP vessel verification may be required.
- Attach the Mussel Fee Sticker requirement note if operating in freshwater.
Required Documents, Fees, and Additional Requirements
Required documents (in addition to the completed BOAT 227):
- Proof of ownership if address mismatch.
- Old title (if mutilated/illegible).
- REG 256 (Statement of Facts) for certain exemptions or use-tax statements.
- Notarized lien release if applicable.
- Mussel Fee Sticker (Quagga/Zebra) for freshwater vessels – purchase online or at a DMV office.
Current fees (as of 2026 – subject to change; confirm on DMV site):
- Replacement ownership certificate/title: $15
- Additional transfer or registration fees may apply.
- Quagga/Zebra Mussel Fee (if applicable): paid separately every two years for freshwater use.
No fee is charged for the form itself.
How to Submit the BOAT 227 Form?
Submit by mail or in person:
- Mail: Department of Motor Vehicles, PO Box 942869, Sacramento, CA 94269-0001. Include payment (check/money order) and all documents.
- In person: Any DMV field office (appointment recommended). Required if your address on record differs.
Processing time varies; allow several weeks. Track status via the DMV website or by calling 1-800-777-0133.
Common Reasons for Vessel Title Replacement and Tips to Avoid Delays
- Lost or stolen titles are the most frequent reasons.
- Address changes require in-person filing.
- Lienholders must apply for replacement title first before releasing interest.
- Always include the Mussel Fee Sticker if your vessel operates in freshwater lakes or rivers to avoid citations.
Pro tip: Keep a digital copy of your vessel documents and renew your Quagga Mussel Sticker on time.
Frequently Asked Questions About BOAT 227
Can I fill out BOAT 227 online?
Yes – the PDF is fillable, but you must print, sign, and submit the physical form.
Is there an online application for vessel title replacement?
No fully online option exists; mail or in-person submission is required.
What if my vessel has an ELT (Electronic Lien Title)?
You cannot use BOAT 227 to release the lien; contact your lender for the proper process.
How long does it take to receive the replacement title?
Allow 4–6 weeks by mail; faster at a DMV office.
Do I need the BOAT 227 for registration renewal?
No, only for title replacement or transfer when the title is missing.
Get Your Replacement Vessel Title Today
The BOAT 227 form is your straightforward path to a legal California vessel title replacement. Download the official PDF today and follow the steps above to avoid delays. For the latest fees or questions, visit the California DMV Boat/Vessel Registration page or contact DMV Customer Service at 1-800-777-0133.
Stay compliant on California waterways—replace your lost vessel title promptly with the BOAT 227!
Last updated: April 2026. Always verify details on dmv.ca.gov for the most current requirements.