No Registration Needed For These Boats In New York State

The warm weather is here and the Memorial Day weekend is coming up. If you are about to hit the water in New York State, make sure you know the rules about boat registration. Does your boat need a registration? Is it time to renew?

Boat registrations in New York State are good for three years after they are issued. Just like cars, stickers are provided with registration that law enforcement can identify easily.

According to the New York State DMV, the following boats DO NOT NEED to be registered.

Your boat is exempt from New York State registration if it is

-a lifeboat
-registered in another state and not kept in New York for more than 90 consecutive days
-a commercial boat with either U.S. or foreign documentation
-a boat racing in competition

There are certain age requirements pertaining to operating a boat in New York State. There is a boating course certificate that is issued to those who fall under the age requirements.

BORN DATE BY WHICH YOU NEED A CERTIFICATE
On or after May 1, 1996 Before you can operate a boat in New York
On or after January 1, 1993 January 1, 2020
On or after January 1, 1988 January 1, 2022
On or after January 1, 1983 January 1, 2023
On or after January 1, 1978 January , 2024

Just like the "Click It Or Ticket" campaign on the roads in New York this week, police and other law enforcement officials will be on the water looking for boaters following the laws.

Through June 5th, members of law enforcement will be keeping a very close eye out for drivers who aren't wearing their seat belt when behind the wheel. During last year's crackdown, more than 12-thousand tickets were handed out for seat belt and child restraint violations.

There are so many great concerts and festivals that are scheduled over the next couple of weeks and police officials remind you to plan ahead and either have a ride or order one on your favorite ride share app.