How Can You Register a Boat in Missouri Without a Title?

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer Boat Ownership & Care

Registering a boat in Missouri can sometimes feel like navigating uncharted waters, especially when you don’t have a title to prove ownership. Whether you’ve inherited a vessel, purchased one without proper documentation, or found yourself in a unique situation, understanding how to register a boat without a title is essential for ensuring your time on the water is both legal and hassle-free. This process might seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance, you can confidently take the necessary steps to get your boat registered and ready to sail.

Missouri’s boating regulations are designed to promote safety and accountability on the water, and registration is a key part of that framework. When a title is missing, the state offers alternative pathways to establish ownership and secure registration. These options help protect both the boat owner and the public by verifying that the vessel is legitimately owned and properly documented. Exploring these options will give you a clearer picture of what’s required and how to move forward.

Navigating the registration process without a title involves understanding specific requirements and preparing the correct documentation. While it may require some additional effort, the process is manageable with the right information. In the following sections, you’ll find a detailed overview of the steps, tips, and resources that will help you successfully register your boat in Missouri, even

Steps to Register a Boat Without a Title in Missouri

When registering a boat in Missouri without a title, you will need to follow a specific process to establish ownership and comply with state regulations. The Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) requires documentation that verifies your ownership if a title is not available, such as when the boat is older or was never titled. Below are the essential steps to complete the registration:

First, gather all available proof of ownership. This may include a bill of sale, a notarized affidavit of ownership, a previous registration, or a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) if the boat is new. If the boat was inherited or gifted, you will need to provide legal documentation supporting that transfer.

Next, complete the Missouri Application for Boat Registration (Form 936). This form requires detailed information about the boat, including make, model, year, hull identification number (HIN), and the applicant’s personal details.

You must also have the boat inspected by a Missouri law enforcement officer or an authorized agent to verify the hull identification number if the title is missing. This inspection certifies the boat’s identity and ensures it is not stolen.

Submit the completed application, proof of ownership, inspection certification, and payment for registration fees to your local Missouri DOR office or through an authorized agent. Fees vary depending on the boat size and type.

Documents Required for Registration Without a Title

To register your boat without a title, Missouri requires several key documents to establish lawful ownership and to process the registration correctly. The following list outlines the necessary paperwork:

  • Completed Missouri Boat Registration Application (Form 936)
  • Proof of Ownership:
  • Bill of Sale signed by the seller and buyer
  • Previous registration certificate (if available)
  • Notarized Affidavit of Ownership (if no bill of sale)
  • Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (for new boats)
  • Hull Identification Number (HIN) Inspection Certificate
  • Valid Identification: driver’s license or state ID
  • Payment for registration fees

If the boat was acquired through inheritance or gift, additional legal documents such as a will or gift affidavit may be required to prove ownership.

Missouri Boat Registration Fees and Duration

The registration fees for boats in Missouri vary based on the length of the boat and the duration of the registration. Registrations are typically valid for three years, after which renewal is necessary. Below is a breakdown of the fees for registering boats without a title:

Boat Length Registration Fee (3-year period)
Less than 12 feet $17
12 feet to less than 16 feet $29
16 feet to less than 26 feet $46
26 feet or longer $70

Additional fees may apply for processing or specialized documentation, such as a duplicate registration. It is recommended to verify current fees with the Missouri Department of Revenue before submitting your application.

Tips for a Smooth Registration Process

Registering a boat without a title in Missouri can be straightforward if you prepare adequately. Consider the following tips to avoid delays or complications:

  • Ensure all forms are fully and accurately completed to prevent rejection.
  • Obtain notarization where required, especially for affidavits or bills of sale.
  • Schedule the hull identification number inspection in advance to align with your application submission.
  • Keep copies of all documents submitted for your records.
  • Contact the Missouri Department of Revenue or a local licensing agent if you have questions or need clarification.
  • Check for any outstanding liens on the boat before registration to avoid legal issues.

Following these guidelines will help ensure your boat registration is processed efficiently, even without a title.

Requirements for Registering a Boat Without a Title in Missouri

In Missouri, registering a boat without a title is possible under specific circumstances. The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) oversees boat registrations, and they allow registration without a title if the vessel qualifies as a non-titled boat or if the title is lost or unavailable. Understanding the eligibility and necessary documentation is crucial to complete the process successfully.

Eligibility Criteria

  • The boat is manufactured before 1979, as Missouri does not issue titles for boats built before this year.
  • The boat has never been titled in Missouri or any other state.
  • The original title was lost, stolen, or destroyed, and the owner cannot obtain a duplicate title from the previous state.
  • The boat is a homemade or reconstructed vessel without a formal title history.

Documentation Required for Registration Without a Title

To register a boat without a title, owners must provide alternative proof of ownership and supporting documents. These typically include:

  • Proof of ownership: A notarized bill of sale, a previous registration certificate, or an affidavit of ownership.
  • Completed Boat Registration Application: Missouri Form 1716, which can be obtained from the MSHP or online.
  • Proof of Missouri residency: A valid Missouri driver’s license or state ID.
  • Hull Identification Number (HIN): A visible and legible HIN on the boat. If none exists, the MSHP may require an inspection or assignment of a new HIN.
  • Payment of registration fees: Fees vary depending on the boat’s length and type.
  • Affidavit of Lost Title (if applicable): A notarized statement explaining the circumstances of the missing title.

Steps to Register a Boat Without a Title in Missouri

The registration process involves several key steps designed to verify ownership and ensure compliance with state regulations. Following these steps carefully will facilitate a smooth registration.

Step Description
1. Verify Eligibility Confirm that your boat qualifies for registration without a title based on age, ownership status, or title availability.
2. Gather Required Documents Collect proof of ownership, identification, application forms, and any affidavits needed.
3. Complete Application Form 1716 Fill out the Missouri Boat Registration Application accurately, ensuring all information is correct.
4. Obtain Hull Identification Number Inspection (If Needed) If the boat lacks a HIN or it is illegible, schedule an inspection through the MSHP or authorized agent.
5. Submit Application and Fees Submit your completed application, supporting documents, and payment to the MSHP Boat Registration Unit either by mail or in person.
6. Receive Registration and Decals Upon approval, you will receive your boat registration certificate and decals to display on the vessel.

Special Considerations and Tips for Registration Without a Title

  • Inspection Requirement: Boats without a title often require a physical inspection by the Missouri State Highway Patrol to verify ownership and condition.
  • Affidavit Accuracy: Affidavits must be notarized and truthful; providing information can result in penalties.
  • Lost Title Recovery: Before registering without a title, attempt to recover or obtain a duplicate title from the previous state if possible.
  • Registration Fees: Fees are based on the length of the boat; Missouri charges $8.50 plus $1.50 per foot of boat length, with a minimum fee applied.
  • Registration Renewal: Missouri boat registrations must be renewed every three years; keep your registration documents current to avoid fines.
  • Contact Information: For detailed assistance, contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Water Patrol Unit or visit their official website.

Expert Guidance on Registering a Boat in Missouri Without a Title

Jessica Martin (Missouri DMV Compliance Specialist). When registering a boat in Missouri without a title, it is crucial to provide alternative proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale or a notarized affidavit. Missouri law allows for registration in these cases, but the applicant must also complete a VIN inspection to verify the vessel’s identity. Ensuring all paperwork is accurate and submitted to the Missouri Department of Revenue expedites the process and prevents future legal complications.

David Chen (Marine Registration Consultant, Midwest Boating Services). The absence of a title does not necessarily prevent boat registration in Missouri, but it does require additional documentation and verification steps. Owners should gather any purchase receipts, previous registration documents, or affidavits from previous owners. Engaging with a professional who understands Missouri’s specific requirements can simplify navigating the paperwork and inspection requirements mandated by state law.

Linda Foster (Attorney Specializing in Maritime and Recreational Vehicle Law). Missouri’s regulations provide a pathway for registering boats without titles, primarily to accommodate private sales or inherited vessels. However, owners must be prepared to prove lawful ownership through comprehensive documentation and possibly a notarized statement explaining the absence of a title. Consulting legal counsel can be beneficial to ensure compliance with Missouri statutes and to avoid potential disputes over ownership rights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What documents are required to register a boat in Missouri without a title?
You need to provide a completed Application for Missouri Boat Registration (Form 3700-001), proof of ownership such as a bill of sale, a notarized statement of facts explaining the absence of a title, and payment for registration fees.

Can I register a boat in Missouri if it was purchased out-of-state and has no title?
Yes, you can register the boat by submitting a bill of sale, proof of ownership, and completing the necessary forms. Missouri may require a hull identification number (HIN) inspection to verify the boat’s identity.

Is a hull identification number (HIN) inspection mandatory when registering without a title?
Yes, Missouri requires a HIN inspection by a conservation agent or authorized official to confirm the boat’s identity when no title is available.

How long does it take to register a boat in Missouri without a title?
Registration processing typically takes 2 to 4 weeks after submission of all required documents and payment, but times may vary depending on workload and completeness of the application.

Are there any fees associated with registering a boat without a title in Missouri?
Yes, standard registration fees apply, and there may be additional fees for inspections or administrative processing related to the absence of a title.

What should I do if I cannot obtain a title for my boat in Missouri?
You should contact the Missouri Department of Revenue or the Missouri State Highway Patrol for guidance on obtaining a bonded title or alternative proof of ownership to complete the registration process.
Registering a boat in Missouri without a title is a process that requires careful attention to state regulations and proper documentation. Since Missouri mandates boat registration for most watercraft, owners without a title must provide alternative proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale, a notarized statement of ownership, or evidence of previous registration. It is essential to visit a Missouri Department of Revenue office or an authorized agent to submit these documents along with the completed application and applicable fees.

Understanding the specific requirements and preparing the necessary paperwork in advance can streamline the registration process. In cases where the boat was acquired through inheritance, gift, or private sale without a title, additional affidavits or verification may be required to establish legal ownership. Consulting with the Missouri Department of Revenue or a boating authority can provide clarity and ensure compliance with state laws.

Ultimately, while registering a boat without a title in Missouri may involve extra steps, it is entirely feasible with proper documentation and adherence to state guidelines. Taking the time to gather all required information and submitting a complete application will help boat owners secure their registration efficiently and enjoy their vessel legally on Missouri waterways.

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Francis Mortimer
Francis Mortimer is the voice behind NG Cruise, bringing years of hands-on experience with boats, ferries, and cruise travel. Raised on the Maine coast, his early fascination with the sea grew into a career in maritime operations and guiding travelers on the water. Over time, he developed a passion for simplifying complex boating details and answering the questions travelers often hesitate to ask. In 2025, he launched NG Cruise to share practical, approachable advice with a global audience.

Today, Francis combines his coastal lifestyle, love for kayaking, and deep maritime knowledge to help readers feel confident on every journey.