Arkansas is a state that boasts numerous rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water, making it a popular destination for boaters and fishing enthusiasts alike.
If you’re planning on buying a boat in Arkansas, you may be wondering if the state requires boat titles. The answer is not as straightforward as you might think.
While some states require boat titles, Arkansas is not one of them.
However, there are still certain requirements that boat owners must meet in order to legally operate their vessel in the state.
Understanding these requirements is essential for anyone who plans to own or operate a boat in Arkansas.
Key Takeaways
- Arkansas does not require boat titles, but boat owners still need to meet certain requirements to legally operate their vessel in the state.
- Boat owners must register their vessel with the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration and display a valid registration decal while on the water.
- Proof of ownership and a bill of sale are required when registering a boat in Arkansas.
Arkansas Boat Title Basics
In Arkansas, boat titles are required for all non-exempt boats that were manufactured in 2020 and newer. However, older boats only require registration but no titles. This is administered by the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) through its Office of Motor Vehicles in Little Rock.
The DFA requires the boat owner to provide a bill of sale, manufacturer’s statement of origin, or a previously issued title to register a boat. The DFA also requires the owner to provide a hull identification number (HIN) for registration purposes. The HIN is a unique identifier that is assigned to each boat by the manufacturer, and it is used to track the boat’s ownership and history.
It is important to note that if the boat is purchased from a dealer, the dealer is responsible for providing the necessary documentation to register the boat. Additionally, if the boat is purchased from an individual, the buyer must ensure that the seller provides the necessary documentation to register the boat.
The DFA will issue a registration and/or title certificate once all the necessary documentation has been submitted and approved. The boat owner must display the registration decal on the boat’s hull, and the registration certificate must be kept on board the boat at all times.
In summary, Arkansas requires boat titles for all non-exempt boats that were manufactured in 2020 and newer. Older boats only require registration but no titles. The boat owner must provide a bill of sale, manufacturer’s statement of origin, or a previously issued title to register a boat, and a hull identification number must be provided for registration purposes. The DFA will issue a registration and/or title certificate once all the necessary documentation has been submitted and approved.
Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration
The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) is responsible for processing all boat registrations and titles in Arkansas. As of January 1, 2020, the DFA started issuing titles for all boats manufactured in or after 2020, due to legislation from the Arkansas General Assembly (Act 733 of 2019) [1]. This means that all new boats purchased in Arkansas after that date will require a title.
Prior to this change, Arkansas had never issued boat titles in the past. However, the DFA has been requiring boat owners to verify that the hull identification number (HIN) complies with federal requirements when renewing or updating ownership of a motorboat since January 1, 2017 [1].
The DFA processes all boat registrations and titles through the state revenue offices [2]. Boat owners can register their boats by submitting an application and paying the appropriate fees. The fees vary based on the length of the boat and whether it is a new or used boat. The DFA also requires boat owners to renew their boat registrations annually.
The DFA website provides a free resource designed to inform the boating public about registration requirements, recording methods, and title search guidelines for the State of Arkansas [4]. Boat owners can also find the boat registration and title forms, as well as frequently asked questions about boat registration and titling, on the Boat History Report website [5].
In summary, the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration is responsible for processing all boat registrations and titles in Arkansas. As of January 1, 2020, the DFA started issuing titles for all boats manufactured in or after 2020, due to legislation from the Arkansas General Assembly. Boat owners can register their boats by submitting an application and paying the appropriate fees, and are required to renew their boat registrations annually.
Boat Registration in Arkansas
Arkansas requires all motorboats and sailboats over 18 feet in length to be registered with the state. The Department of Finance and Administration is responsible for processing all boat registrations and titles in Arkansas.
To operate a motorboat on Arkansas’ public waters, the owner must have an Arkansas Certificate of Number (registration) and validation decals. The exception to this rule is vessels that are not propelled by an engine or by sail. Vessels properly registered in another state and using Arkansas waters for 90 or fewer consecutive days are also exempt from this requirement.
Boat owners must apply for registration within 30 days of the date of purchase. The owner may operate the motorboat during this period if they have on board a dated proof of purchase. A Certificate of Number is valid for three years.
The following boats are not required to be registered in Arkansas:
- Vessels documented by the US Coast Guard
- Vessels owned by the United States, Canada, or subdivision thereof
- Ships’ lifeboats
Boat registration fees in Arkansas are based on the length of the boat. The fees are as follows:
| Boat Length | Registration Fee |
|---|---|
| Less than 16 ft | $25 |
| 16 ft but less than 26 ft | $40 |
| 26 ft but less than 40 ft | $60 |
| 40 ft or longer | $100 |
Boat owners must also renew their boat registration every three years. The renewal fees are the same as the initial registration fees.
In summary, Arkansas requires all motorboats and sailboats over 18 feet in length to be registered with the state. Boat owners must apply for registration within 30 days of the date of purchase and renew their registration every three years. The registration fee is based on the length of the boat.
Understanding Vessel Identification
In Arkansas, boats that are 2020 and newer require both registration and title, while older boats only need registration. To register a boat, the owner must provide the hull identification number (HIN) and the owner-designated vessel name and hailing port. The HIN is a unique 12-digit number assigned to each vessel by the manufacturer.
The HIN is a crucial element in identifying a vessel and is often compared to a VIN for cars. It is used to track the ownership history of the boat, as well as to identify the vessel in case of theft or accidents. The HIN is also required for registering a boat, so it is important to ensure that the HIN is correct and complies with federal requirements.
Coast Guard documented vessels are not required to register in Arkansas, but they are still required to have a valid HIN. These vessels are registered with the National Vessel Documentation Center, and their identification numbers start with “CG” or “NO”.
It is important to note that the HIN is not the same as the state registration number, which is used to identify a boat when it is on the water. The registration number is displayed on the boat’s hull and is required to be visible from a distance.
In summary, the hull identification number (HIN) is a unique 12-digit number assigned to each vessel by the manufacturer. It is used to track the ownership history of the boat, as well as to identify the vessel in case of theft or accidents. Vessels that are 2020 and newer require both registration and title, while older boats only need registration. Coast Guard documented vessels are not required to register in Arkansas, but they are still required to have a valid HIN.
Office of Motor Vehicles and Boat Titles
In Arkansas, the Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) is responsible for handling boat registration and titling. As of January 1, 2020, boats manufactured in 2020 and after are required to be titled through the OMV. This means that boat owners must apply for a title within 30 days of purchasing a new or used boat.
It’s important to note that not all boats require a title. Vessels that are not propelled by an engine or by sail, vessels properly registered in another state and using Arkansas waters for 90 or fewer consecutive days, and vessels documented by the U.S. Coast Guard are exempt from the titling requirement.
If you’re unsure whether your boat requires a title, you can perform a boat title search through the OMV. The OMV provides title search guidelines to help you navigate the process.
When performing a boat title search, it’s important to have the correct information on hand. This includes the boat’s hull identification number (HIN), which is a unique 12-digit number assigned to the vessel by the manufacturer. You’ll also need the boat’s make, model, and year.
Overall, the OMV is the primary resource for boat registration and titling in Arkansas. By following the OMV’s guidelines and requirements, boat owners can ensure that their vessels are properly registered and titled in the state.
Arkansas’ Property and Personal Property Taxes
Arkansas imposes property taxes on real estate, personal property, and motor vehicles. Property taxes are collected by county assessors and used to fund local government services, such as schools, roads, and law enforcement.
Personal property taxes are also collected by county assessors and apply to tangible personal property, such as boats, RVs, and livestock. The deadline for personal property assessment is May 31st of each year, and failure to assess personal property may result in a penalty.
Boats are subject to personal property tax in Arkansas, and the registration fees for boats are determined by the length of the boat. As of 2023, the fees to register a motorboat in Arkansas are as follows:
- Motorboat less than 16 ft. long: $7.50
- Motorboat 16 ft. to less than 26 ft. long: $15.00
- Motorboat 26 ft. to less than 40 ft. long: $51.00
- Motorboat 40 ft. and over: $105.00
Sales tax is collected by the dealer for new and used boats. Additionally, beginning January 1, 2020, boats manufactured in 2020 and after are required to be titled through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration Office of Motor Vehicles.
The Arkansas State Revenue Office is responsible for the administration of motor vehicle taxes and fees, including registration, titling, and sales tax. However, the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration is now issuing boat titles for all boats manufactured in or after 2020. This is a new requirement as Arkansas has never issued boat titles in the past.
In summary, Arkansas imposes property taxes on real estate, personal property, and motor vehicles. Boats are subject to personal property tax and registration fees, and beginning in 2020, boats manufactured in 2020 and after are required to be titled through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration Office of Motor Vehicles. The Arkansas State Revenue Office is responsible for the administration of motor vehicle taxes and fees, while the county assessors collect personal property taxes.
Proof of Ownership and Bill of Sale
When registering a boat in Arkansas, proof of ownership and a bill of sale are required. A bill of sale must include the hull identification number (HIN), year, make, horsepower, amount of sale, and date signatures of the buyer and seller. It must also be dated and signed by the buyer and seller.
According to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, proof of ownership can be provided through a current registration or bill of sale. A pencil rubbing of the HIN directly off of the vessel or a clear photograph of the HIN can be used to verify the HIN.
It is important to note that beginning on and after January 1, 2017, the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration will not renew or update ownership of a motorboat without verification that the HIN complies with federal requirements.
If the boat has an engine of 50 horsepower or more, proof of liability insurance is also required.
In summary, when registering a boat in Arkansas, proof of ownership can be provided through a current registration or bill of sale. A bill of sale must include specific information about the boat and be signed and dated by the buyer and seller. A pencil rubbing or clear photograph of the HIN can be used to verify the HIN. If the boat has an engine of 50 horsepower or more, proof of liability insurance is also required.
Boating in Arkansas
Arkansas is a state that is home to many waterways, including lakes, rivers, and streams. Boating is a popular activity in the state, and there are many opportunities for people to get out on the water and enjoy the scenery.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is responsible for managing the state’s public waters. They work to ensure that these waters are safe and accessible to everyone who wants to use them. If you plan to boat on public waters in Arkansas, you will need to follow certain rules and regulations.
In Arkansas, boats that are propelled by sail or motor are required to be registered with the state. This registration process is handled by the Department of Finance and Administration. Once you have registered your boat, you will receive a Certificate of Number (registration) and validation decals. These must be displayed on your boat whenever it is being used on public waters in Arkansas.
It is important to note that there are some exceptions to this registration requirement. For example, vessels that are not propelled by an engine or by sail do not need to be registered. Additionally, vessels that are properly registered in another state and using Arkansas waters for 90 or fewer consecutive days do not need to be registered in Arkansas.
When boating in Arkansas, it is important to follow all of the state’s boating laws and regulations. These laws cover a variety of topics, including boating safety, equipment requirements, and speed limits. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission provides a comprehensive guide to these laws on their website.
Overall, boating in Arkansas can be a fun and enjoyable experience. However, it is important to follow all of the state’s rules and regulations to ensure that everyone stays safe on the water.
Insurance Requirements for Boats
Arkansas law requires all motorboats with engines exceeding 50 horsepower and all personal watercraft to have a minimum of $50,000 of liability coverage per occurrence. The policy must be from an insurance provider authorized to operate in Arkansas.
Liability insurance provides coverage for damages that you may cause to other boats, property, or persons while operating your boat. It is important to note that liability insurance does not cover damages to your own boat or injuries to you or your passengers.
Boat insurance, on the other hand, provides coverage for damages to your boat and equipment, as well as theft, fire, and other covered perils. Boat insurance policies can also include liability coverage, medical payments coverage, and uninsured boater coverage.
It is a good idea to carry both liability and boat insurance to ensure that you are fully protected while enjoying your time on the water.
In addition to insurance requirements, Arkansas law also requires that any operator born on or after January 1, 1986, have Arkansas Game & Fish Commission Boater Education certification. This certification can be obtained by completing an approved boating safety course.
Overall, it is important to understand the insurance requirements for your boat to ensure that you are compliant with Arkansas law and fully protected while on the water.
Trailer and Motorboat Registration
Arkansas requires both trailers and motorboats to be registered with the Department of Finance and Administration’s Office of Motor Vehicles. This includes all non-exempt boats manufactured in 2020 and newer, which require both registration and titling. Boats older than 2020 only require registration but not titling.
To register a trailer or motorboat, the owner needs to provide the following information:
- Trailer or motorboat’s make, model, and year
- Trailer or motorboat’s length and type
- Trailer or motorboat’s hull identification number (HIN) or vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale or manufacturer’s statement of origin
- Payment of registration fees and taxes
Once registered, the owner will receive a Certificate of Number (registration) and validation decals, which must be displayed on the trailer or motorboat. The registration is valid for three years and must be renewed before it expires.
It’s important to note that Arkansas law requires all motorboats to display the registration number and validation decals on the forward half of the vessel. The registration number must be in block letters and at least three inches high, with a color that contrasts with the background. The validation decals must be affixed within six inches of the registration number and be visible from the outside of the vessel.
If an owner wants to transfer ownership of a trailer or motorboat, they must provide the new owner with a bill of sale and a signed-over title (if applicable). The new owner must then register the trailer or motorboat in their name within 30 days of the sale.
Overall, Arkansas requires both trailers and motorboats to be registered and titled (for boats manufactured in 2020 and newer), with proof of ownership and payment of fees. Owners must display the registration number and validation decals on the forward half of the vessel and renew their registration every three years.
Decals and Verification
Arkansas requires all motorboats to have a Certificate of Number (registration) and validation decals to operate on public waters. The only exceptions are vessels that are not propelled by an engine or by sail, and vessels properly registered in another state and using Arkansas waters for 90 or fewer consecutive days.
The registration number and validation decals must be displayed as follows. The number must be painted, applied as a decal, or otherwise affixed to the forward half of each side of the motorboat and placed to be clearly visible. The number must read from left to right on both sides of the motorboat.
To verify the Hull Identification Number (HIN), boat owners can take a pencil rubbing of the HIN directly off of their vessel or a clear photograph of the HIN. Boat owners must visit any Arkansas state revenue office with a bill of sale or current registration and proof that they have liability insurance if their vessel has an engine of 50 horsepower or more.
It is important to note that vessels documented by the US Coast Guard, vessels owned by the United States, Canada, or subdivision thereof, and ships’ lifeboats are not required to be registered in Arkansas.
In summary, boat owners in Arkansas must have a Certificate of Number and validation decals to operate on public waters, and the registration number and validation decals must be displayed clearly on the boat. Boat owners must also verify their HIN with a pencil rubbing or clear photograph and visit an Arkansas state revenue office with a bill of sale or current registration and proof of liability insurance if their vessel has an engine of 50 horsepower or more.
Transfers and Renewals
When transferring ownership of a boat in Arkansas, the seller must provide the buyer with a signed and notarized bill of sale. The buyer must then take the bill of sale to a state revenue office to transfer the boat’s registration and title. A transfer fee of $2 is required. Boats may be transferred at any time during the registration period.
Renewing boat registration in Arkansas is required every three years. Boat owners will receive a renewal notice in the mail prior to their registration expiration date. The renewal notice will include instructions for renewing the registration and the amount due. Boat owners may renew their registration online, in person at a state revenue office, or by mail.
The boat registration renewal fee in Arkansas varies based on the length of the boat. For example, the registration fee for a motorboat less than 16 feet long is $25, while the registration fee for a motorboat between 26 and less than 40 feet long is $51. The registration fee for a motorboat 40 feet or longer is $105. Other registration-related fees include a $2 boat registration transfer fee, and $1 to replace a missing registration.
It is important to note that boats registered in another state may use Arkansas waters for up to 90 consecutive days without an Arkansas registration. However, if the boat is used in Arkansas for more than 90 days, it must be registered in Arkansas.
Overall, boat owners in Arkansas must ensure that their boat registration is up-to-date and that ownership transfers are properly documented to avoid any legal issues.
Uniform Commercial Code and Liens
Arkansas requires boat owners to register their boats with the state. If a boat is financed, the lender may file a lien against the boat until the loan is paid off. Security interests in boats that are not titled or USCG documented are recorded with the Secretary of State as Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filings. UCC filings are public records that indicate a creditor’s security interest in the boat.
The Arkansas Secretary of State’s Office provides online services to simplify filing and searching UCC documents. These services are provided in conjunction with the Information Network of Arkansas. Boat owners can search for existing liens on their boats by conducting a UCC search through the Secretary of State’s website.
If a boat is USCG documented, a lender’s security interests will be recorded with the National Vessel Documentation Center (NVDC). These interests are indexed on the boat’s abstract of title. It is important to note that a UCC filing does not replace a boat title. Boat owners must still obtain a boat title from the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration.
In addition to UCC filings, Arkansas also has lien laws that apply to boats. The state’s lien laws are outlined in Title 18 of the Arkansas Code. The Uniform Bonding Procedure is covered in section 18-44-501 of the code. Other sections of the code cover payment bonds for public projects, religious and charitable organizations, and private construction.
Boat owners should be aware of the lien laws and UCC filings when purchasing a boat or seeking financing. It is important to ensure that any existing liens on a boat are satisfied before purchasing or taking possession of the vessel.
Documented Vessels and Outboard Motors
Arkansas exempts boats documented by the US Coast Guard from registration requirements. However, the owner of the documented vessel must carry a printed photograph of the vessel and a copy of the current USCG documentation on board at all times.
Outboard motors are also exempt from registration in Arkansas. However, the owner must carry proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale or a manufacturer’s statement of origin, with them at all times when operating the motor on Arkansas waters.
It is important to note that while Arkansas does not require a title for outboard motors, some states do. Boat owners who plan to transport their vessel to another state should verify that state’s registration and titling requirements before departing.
Overall, Arkansas’s exemption of documented vessels and outboard motors from registration requirements provides flexibility for boat owners. However, owners must ensure they have the necessary documentation on board to avoid any issues with law enforcement.
