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Vessel Registration & Title Services

If you own a boat in Florida, it must be titled and registered before being used on the water. The Duval County Tax Collector’s Office can assist you with new registrations, renewals, and title transfers.


Exemptions from Titling  FLHSMV »

 

Registration & Renewal


Where to Register:

  • In person at any Duval County Tax Collector’s Office
  • By mail


Required for Registration:

  • All motorized vessels (private or commercial)
  • Must be titled, registered, and issued a decal

The registration decal must be:

  • Displayed on the port (left) side of the vessel


When to Renew:

  • Vessel registrations must be renewed annually during the owner’s birth month


Registration Fees:

 

Registering a New Vessel (New Title)


To register a brand-new boat, bring the following:

  • Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) – completed and notarized by the selling dealer
  • Dealer sales tax invoice, or proof sales tax has been paid
  • If exempt, provide Form DR-40 (Sales Tax Exemption)

 

Transferring Ownership (Florida Title)


If buying a used boat titled in Florida:

  • Complete the “Transfer of Title by Seller” section on the title
  • If purchased from a dealer, the dealer reassignment section must also be filled out
  • Provide proof of sales tax payment, or Form DR-40
  • Transfer the registration along with the title

Ownership must be transferred within 30 days or a $10 late fee will be charged.

 

Out-of-State Titles or Non-Titled States


If the vessel comes from another state:

From a Title State:

  • Provide the out-of-state title (completed and notarized if required)
  • Submit Form HSMV 82040 VS (Application for Florida Title) 

From a Non-Title State:

  • Provide the most recent original vessel registration (Photocopies not accepted)
  • A notarized bill of sale
  • A hull identification number (HIN) pencil tracing, if required

 

Transient (Visiting) Vessels


If you're a non-resident boating in Florida:

  • You may use your valid out-of-state registration for up to 90 days
  • This exemption applies to pleasure vessels only
  • If you plan to use your boat in Florida for more than 90 days, you must register it in Florida

 

Need Help?

Call us at (904) 255-5700, email taxcollector@coj.net or visit the Duval County Tax Collector’s Office for assistance.