The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries requirements for online boating safety courses changed effective January 1, 2009 and the NEW Boat Virginia Online Course meets those requirements. The old Boat Virginia course and test does not meet those requirements and was discontinued on December 31, 2008.

• Take the NEW Boat Virginia Online Course!
• Or, you can order the Boat Virginia Video Course

The course material below remains as a resource for all who boat on Virginia's waters—particularly experienced boaters who need a refresher, but not a boater education certificate.

Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Buying and Selling a Vessel

The procedure for transferring ownership of a vessel is outlined here. The steps are essentially the same whether the "former owner" is a marine dealer, or the "new owner" is an individual purchasing a pre-owned vessel from an individual "former owner."

If a registered vessel is sold or otherwise transferred to another person, the registration and title must be issued or transferred to the new owner.

• If the registration of the former owner is valid and the new owner has in his or her possession the dated bill of sale and the valid registration card of the former owner, the new owner may operate the vessel for 30 days from the date of purchase.
• Otherwise, a new owner may show proof of ownership and purchase a "Virginia Motorboat Temporary Registration Certificate" which allows operation for 30 days. These certificates are sold by hunting and fishing license agents.
• The 30-day periods allow time for the new owner to complete registration and titling through the mail (allow two weeks for processing and delivery).

To transfer the vessel's registration and title, you must submit an application with the appropriate fee and supporting documents (proof of ownership) to the Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries, Boat Section.

The VDGIF will send the new owner a new Certificate of Number and title in the new owner's name.

Application for Certificate of Title and Certificate of Number (Registration)

Registration and titling application forms can be obtained from:

• Marine dealers
• Offices of the Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries (VDGIF)
• Agents who sell fishing and hunting licenses
• The Internet at www.dgif.virginia.gov/boating

Registration Questions? Call the Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries at 1-877-898-BOAT (2628) or send your question by e-mail to boat-reg@dgif.virginia.gov