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Boat Registration
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Boat registrations and titles are handled through the Department of Natural Resources in South Carolina.
You'll need the following documentation to register your boat and/or outboard motor in South Carolina. Much of it is available online using the free Adobe Reader:
- Current title, if the boat is used, or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin if the watercraft is new.
- Completed Watercraft/Outboard Motor Application.
- Probate Form or Affidavit of Inheritance Form if the watercraft was left to you by a Will or Estate.
- The Hull Identification Number (HIN).
- Application for Duplicate Title if the original title is lost or missing.
- Appropriate taxes and fees. SC charges different taxes and fees depending on where and how you bought your watercraft, so check the list to determine the proper amount.
You'll need to send the completed application with accompanying documents and a check or money order by mail to:
- SC Dept. of Natural Resources
- P.O. Box 167
- Columbia, SC, 29202
For more information, you can call the Boater Registration Office at (803) 734-3857.
Registration Renewal
To renew your boat registration, complete the same Watercraft/Outboard Motor Application or submit the registration renewal card. The fee to renew is $30, but you'll be charged an additional $15 if you're more than 30 days late renewing.
Temporary Certificate
If you plan to take your boat out on the water immediately, you'll need to get a Temporary Watercraft Certificate, which is valid for up to 60 days from the date you purchased the boat. Call (803) 734-3857 to request one.
Decals
South Carolina requires your registration number be placed on the forward half of the boat, visible to other boats. You can paint the numbers on, or use decals, but they must be of contrasting color to the boat hull and at least three inches tall. The year decals must be attached to each side of the front half of the boat, immediately following the registration number.
The Watercraft/Outboard Motor Application features a diagram at the bottom of the form showing proper locations for the identification.
More Information
For more information about out-of-state issues, duplicate registration cards, or abandoned watercrafts, visit our Registration FAQs or check out South Carolina's Registration & Titling Information Web page.
