This page provides information on how to register a Boat (Vessel).
If you wish to operate any boat with an engine used (or capable of being used) for propulsion in Victorian waters the boat must be registered and in a seaworthy condition. Registration is required to be renewed every 12 months.
To register the boat you must :
- make an appointment to register the boat
- provide identifying details of the boat and the owner, and
- pay the appropriate fees (unless specifically exempt).
A boat can be registered in the name of a person who is twelve years old or more, or in the name of a corporation or incorporated body only. Joint names or unincorporated bodies are not acceptable.
To register a boat you must complete the Vessel Registration form with:
- name and address of the registered operator
- boat type and colour
- hull manufacturer's name and construction material
- overall length and breadth
- engine number, make and type (inboard or outboard)
- engine fuel type and power units
- previous registration number (if any)
A boat inspection is not required but the boat must be in a seaworthy condition.
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When you apply to register a boat you will need to prove ownership. You can do this by providing:
- previous registration papers in the same name from any state in Australia, or
- a contract of sale from a licensed dealer, or
- a receipt from the last owner of the unregistered boat.
If you are a member of an approved club and wish to assign a club identification number to your boat, your club must give you a letter allocating the number to your boat. This letter must accompany your application in order to issue a club assigned number.
You will need to provide your current Australian photographic boat operator licence or driver licence. For a company the Australian Company Number (ACN) must be provided.
If you cannot provide a licence you will need to bring original evidence of identity documents.
If you are unable to attend a VicRoads office can appoint an agent to act on your behalf. The letter of authority must show your name, address, licence number and details of the transaction required, as well as the representatives name and licence number.
The representative will also need to provide evidence of identity. Company boat registrations must have a letter of authority written on company letterhead.
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To register a boat, the fee you will need to pay will depend on the length of the boat. There are two categories:
- boats 4 metres in length or less
- boats over 4 metres in length
Refer to boat registration fees, for information on fees for each boat category.
An application to register a boat can be processed by:
- attending a VicRoads office. You can pay by cash, cheque, EFTPOS or credit card (Visa or Mastercard)
- mailing the application and payment (cheque or money order) to: VicRoads, GPO Box 1644, Melbourne 3001.
A registration certificate and label with the assigned boat identification number will be provided to you.
The label must be kept fixed in a clearly visible position on the outside or upper portion of the boat.
The boat identification number must be painted or displayed on the hull of the boat on each side of the bow as high as practicable above the waterline in characters that are:
- no less than 150 millimetres high; and
- in proportionate breadth; and
- coloured in contrast to the surface on which they are displayed.
Some boats do not need to be registered, refer to boats exempt from registration for more information
You can make an appointment by:
- calling VicRoads on 13 11 71 (Mon-Fri 8.30am - 5.00pm, Sat 8.30am - 2.00pm). No fee is required to make an appointment to register a boat.
- visiting a VicRoads Customer Service Centre. You can pay by cash, cheque, EFTPOS or credit card
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