Boats for Sale in New Jersey

Titles and registration through the MVC

The Motor Vehicle Commission handles boat titles and registration. Boats must be titled within 10 working days of purchase or face a $25 penalty. Boats 12 feet or less, and Coast Guard documented boats, don't get a title.

To title and register, complete the Universal Title Application (OS/SS-UTA) and the Boat Registration Application (BA-51). Bring a properly assigned MCO or title. If the boat comes from a state that doesn't title boats, bring the seller's registration plus a notarized bill of sale. Liens need the lienholder's details, and the original title goes to the lienholder.

All titled boats must be registered, and so must all power vessels of any length. Documented vessels kept in New Jersey other than on a transient basis must also register, though they don't display numbers. The registration certificate must be aboard whenever the vessel is operated.

If you move, tell the MVC in writing within seven days. When you sell, removing the decals is the seller's job.

Boating Safety Certificate

To operate a power boat on tidal waters, you need a boating safety course approved by the New Jersey State Police and the certificate that comes with it. Visitors can use a home-state certificate, a Coast Guard captain's license or proof of a NASBLA-approved course. Anyone operating in New Jersey for more than 90 days needs a New Jersey certificate.

The MVC's boating facts sheet says people 13 to 15 who hold a certificate may operate a boat with an electric trolling motor, or a boat 12 feet or longer with less than 10 hp. People 16 and older may operate any recreational power vessel.

The non-tidal boat license

Freshwater lakes and rivers not affected by tides need one more thing: a boat license from the MVC, which is an endorsement on your driver's license or ID. You must be at least 16, and under 17 you need a parent or guardian's consent letter. Bring your safety certificate and six points of ID. Exemptions include motors under 1 hp or 12-volt electric motors, and boats 12 feet or longer with less than 10 hp.

Where to boat

Barnegat Bay, Great Bay, the Manasquan and Shark rivers, Raritan Bay and Cape May all draw saltwater boaters. Lake Hopatcong and Greenwood Lake are the big freshwater spots, and both are non-tidal, so the license rule applies.

Popular boats

Center consoles and bay boats for fluke and striped bass, sport fishers for offshore trips, pontoons on the lakes and plenty of PWCs.

Buying tips for New Jersey

Bring the title and BA-51 to the MVC within 10 working days so you avoid the penalty. If you plan to boat on a lake, get the boat license sorted before launch day.

The 10-working-day title deadline in New Jersey comes with a $25 penalty, so fill in the OS/SS-UTA and BA-51 the same week you buy. If the seller still owes money, the original title is with the lienholder, so arrange the payoff before closing. Shore boats kept at Barnegat Bay or Cape May marinas should be checked for corroded fittings and a tired trailer.