Owning a boat in South Carolina is a gateway to enjoying the state’s beautiful waterways, from the serene lakes to the coastal shores. However, before you hit the water, ensuring your boat and motor are properly titled is essential. The process of obtaining titles in South Carolina is straightforward but requires attention to detail. This guide provides an overview of the steps to secure boat and motor titles, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
How to Get Boat and Motor Titles in South Carolina
In South Carolina, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) oversees boat and motor titling and registration. Titling is mandatory for most boats and outboard motors, particularly those used on public waters. A title establishes ownership and is necessary for selling, transferring, or financing your vessel or motor. Boats requiring titles include those over 14 feet in length or equipped with an outboard motor of 5 horsepower or more. Homemade boats or those without a Hull Identification Number (HIN) may have additional requirements.
Step 1: Gather Required Documentation
To begin, collect the necessary documents for titling your boat and motor. For a new boat or motor purchased from a dealer, you’ll need:
- A completed Application for Certificate of Title (Form SCDNR BTR-1), available on the SCDNR website.
- The Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) for the boat and motor.
- A bill of sale or dealer invoice detailing the purchase price and taxes paid.
- Proof of payment for South Carolina’s 5% casual excise tax (unless purchased from a dealer who collects it).
For used boats or motors, you’ll need:
- The existing title, signed over by the seller.
- A bill of sale if the title doesn’t include purchase details.
- If the boat or motor is from another state, a title or registration document from that state.
If the boat or motor lacks a title due to age or other circumstances, contact the SCDNR for guidance. You may need to submit an affidavit of ownership or undergo a title search.
Step 2: Complete the Application
Fill out the SCDNR BTR-1 form accurately. Include details such as the boat’s HIN, make, model, year, and motor serial number. Double-check the information, as errors can delay processing. Indicate whether you’re applying for a boat title, motor title, or both. If you’re registering the boat simultaneously (required for operation on public waters), complete the registration section of the form.
Step 3: Pay the Fees
Titling fees in South Carolina are:
- Boat title: $10
- Outboard motor title: $10
- Late title fee: $30 (if applying more than 90 days after purchase)
Registration fees, if applicable, vary based on the boat’s length (e.g., $30 for boats under 16 feet for three years). Payment can be made by check, money order, or credit card at SCDNR offices.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
You can submit your application in person at an SCDNR regional office (located in Clemson, Florence, or Charleston) or by mail to the SCDNR Titling and Registration Office in Columbia. Mailing is convenient but may take longer. Include all documents, the completed application, and payment. If the boat or motor requires inspection (e.g., for a missing HIN or serial number), schedule an appointment with an SCDNR officer.
Step 5: Receive Your Title
Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks. You’ll receive a Certificate of Title for the boat and/or motor, which you should store securely. If you applied for registration, you’ll also receive a registration certificate and decals, which must be displayed on your boat.
Additional Considerations
- Liens: If your boat or motor is financed, the lender’s lien must be noted on the title. Provide lienholder information on the application.
- Transfers: When selling a titled boat or motor, sign the title over to the buyer and provide a bill of sale.
- Exemptions: Some boats, like canoes or kayaks without motors, may not require titling but could need registration if used on public waters.
For detailed guidance, buy our easy to use e-book using the below link.
Properly titling your boat and motor ensures legal compliance and peace of mind, letting you focus on enjoying South Carolina’s waterways.
