FAQs: General FAQ Transport Canada

Sometimes, it seems like the truest statement is that nothing ever stays the same. Your life can be going in one direction, in one way, for many years, and then all of a sudden, everything changes. Sometimes, it's changes you weren't hoping for but other times, the changes are good news indeed. When life changes affect you and your registered vessel, you have to make some changes with regards to the registration as well. At the National Vessel Registry Corp, we can help you with acquiring replacement boat registration.
Altering Certification for Vessels Made Easier
Even the happiest, most positive and pleasant changes for your vessels used to be a pain to deal with in terms of registration. That's because you had to deal with handwritten registration. That meant filling everything out by hand, then physically mailing it in and waiting. Of course, with so many changes (like you might have in altering your vessels) it's easy to make little typos and mistakes. That might not seem like a big deal, but it could get everything you wrote sent back to you, causing you to have to start the whole thing over again. That could mean more time lost filling out application forms when all you want to do is be out on your vessel (or, literally doing anything else).
Convenience of Online Forms
With our forms, you don't have to worry about any of those problems. All of the forms you need for alterations are easy and simple to find at our site. You can just send them in with a click so you can save your stamps for anything you still have to mail in by hand. Additionally, you can fill out all of the forms you need online. That means no more worries about typos, hard to read handwriting or anything else, or filling all of the information into a tiny space. Instead, in just a few minutes, you can type in everything you need.


Document Processors, Too
When your in school and you had to write an essay, maybe you had a writing center tutor, teacher, or even parent look over your writing to make sure your writing was how you wanted it. Even when you're very well versed in your topic, it can be greatly beneficial to have a pro look over your writing. So many of us, for years, whether we realized it or not, would've wanted someone to do that of our documentation forms. Now, we have just that, in the form of our document processors. They can look over your forms to make sure they're filled out right before we pass them along to the relevant authorities.
Application for Alterations of a Registered Vessel
This is the form that most people use when reporting the alterations that have been made. We try to make everything at our site as easy to find and use as possible. That's why you don't have to search for anything like the subheading of this paragraph; you can just look for the word "alterations." There, you'll find this form as well as the parts you have to fill out specifically marked. Anything  that doesn't have a little red asterisk by it doesn't have to be filled out, so as to make things even easier.

One thing you want to be careful of: alterations have to be reported in the same manner that the vessel was initially registered. For example, some of our vessel owners have had a marine safety inspection register the vessel in the first place. If so, then you'll have to get a marine safety inspector's signature to accompany the form. The same goes for a duly appointed tonnage measurer, too. We understand that this can be a bit complicated and confusing, which is why we explain it in greater detail at our site.

We also know that sometimes, you don't want to have to wait to record these changes. That's why we have rush processing and priority request services, too. When you've gone to the trouble to fill out these forms, you shouldn't have to sit around for them to be processed.

These forms aren't the only ones that deal with significant life changes that you can find at our site. For example, we also have the forms to help you with a transfer of ownership, or even a transmission upon death or bankruptcy. For when you get a new vessel, we can help you start the process all over again with a first-time registration. Life changes are natural, and something that every vessel owner goes through. When they occur to you, we can be by your side every step of the way. If you've got more questions about how our forms can help, call (800) 419-9569.

It is essential to be certain that your Canadian pleasure craft license is always up to date if you are a vessel owner in Canada. If you let your license expire, you might face penalties and perhaps have your vessel confiscated. Thankfully, the procedure of renewing your driver's license is both fast and uncomplicated. In this article, we will walk you through the actions necessary for your license to be renewed. You should immediately renew your expired Canadian pleasure craft license for the reasons outlined in this article.
To Stay in Compliance with Transport Canada Regulations
As with any set of guidelines, safety requirements should be followed religiously. We boaters have a moral and ethical obligation to follow Transport Canada's regulations, including those about our pleasure craft licenses. If you haven't been out on the water in a while or whether you took a vacation from boating, you may be wondering if it's a big problem if your personal craft operator's license has expired. Your pleasure craft license must be current for at least three years to be in good standing with Transport Canada. It doesn't matter whether you go boating sometimes or if you spend every weekend of the summer on the water. If it has been more than three years since you renewed your license, you will need to start the renewal process again, including a new application and testing expenses.
Renew Your Pleasure Craft License Maintain the Validity of Your Insurance Policy
One must hold a Canadian pleasure craft license to operate a boat legally in Canadian waters. To get a pleasure craft license, you must first pass the required tests and medical exams Transport Canada gives and then prove that your vessel satisfies its safety requirements. Keep your boat insurance documents with you at all times. If you don't have one, you're breaching the law every time you go on the boat and are responsible for any harm you do or sustain. Since boating season stops when the weather turns cold, you may forget about this until a few months after your license expires. 

It's possible you're so worried about getting everything done on land before winter that you've completely forgotten about it. You forget to renew your pleasure craft license until late autumn or early winter when you suddenly remember you need to do so. Unfortunately, it is too late to renew it electronically or over the phone; thus, your boating season is finished until next year.
To Ensure That You Can Continue to Operate Your Vessel Legally
An expired license prevents you from operating your vessel, so keep in mind that you are putting yourself, your guests, and other people on the water in danger if you do not renew it. The first reason is that driving with an expired license is considered a criminal violation, and you run the risk of being fined or even arrested. You won't want to put yourself in this situation, especially given the second reason: if the police stop you while you're on the water, they'll begin an investigation into your expired license. 

You won't want to put yourself in this situation. There are several different approaches that you can take to renew your license, which is even though the process itself is relatively simple. You can either visit a maritime licensing office in person or send in your renewal form through regular mail. On the Canadian Vessel Registry website, you may even renew your license online.
A Canadian Pleasure Craft License Is Required Regardless of The Size of Your Vessel or Its Power Rating
A pleasure craft license is necessary for operating any boat or yacht, regardless of the horsepower of the vessel's engine or the number of people that are traveling aboard. Regrettably, many boat owners are oblivious to this unfortunate reality. The Canadian Coast Guard issues these licenses, and according to their website, the license has to be updated every five years. Because of this requirement, you must renew your registration before the one you now have expired. 

The fact that you can only demonstrate ownership of your boat by renewing your pleasure craft license is one of the most compelling arguments in favor of keeping your current license current. A valid pleasure craft license will provide you with all of these things and more if you need proof that you own it to file a lawsuit, whether you intend to sell it, receive financing for it, or need proof that you own it to sell it if you need to sell it.


You Could Be Cited for Safety Violations
With so many boats on the water, it can be easy to forget that you're sharing a small slice of the world with others. To everyone's relief, getting a boater's license requires them to demonstrate that they are aware of how to be safe on the water by passing an exam covering maritime regulations and navigation rules. Every boat operator in the country of Canada is required to have a valid Canadian pleasure craft license, which must be renewed after every five years. Transport Canada grants this license. This indicates that if your license is about to expire, you need to renew it as soon as possible for both your personal safety and everyone else on the road. According to the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Act, having an overdue license may also result in penalties for maritime violations.

The Canadian Vessel Registry is a great way to register your boat and get lots of useful information about boat safety. If you've had an expired license for more than a week, it's important to renew it as soon as possible. Remember, the sooner you renew your license, the sooner you'll be able to enjoy your boat in the water! If you have any questions about your vessel license or need help renewing it, contact the Canadian Vessel Registry today. 

Are you in the process of buying or selling a Canadian vessel and want to make sure that all of the documentation is taken care of? Did someone bring up signing a "bill of sale" for an Alberta  boat you’re interested in buying and you don't know what all that entails? If you have your eyes on the boat of your dreams, then you’re going to want to make sure that everything is on the up and up. The same holds true if you’ve found the perfect, motivated buyer for your vessel. A bill of sale can be an important legal document.


You’re Selling a Pleasure Craft 
That’s the main reason that you’re going to need a bill of sale for buying or selling a vessel. Indeed, that’s what a strong majority of bills of sale are used for. These vessels aren’t registered with Transport Canada, they’re pleasure craft, so, you should want to have a bill of sale for when the vessel is bought or sold. Why? Because it can be important legal documentation in case one party or another is unhappy after the sale. Having this document can leave you feeling “better safe than sorry,” so to speak. 
What Should Be in a Bill of Sale for an Alberta Boat? 
There is no set governmental form for a bill of sale. That said, there are specific bits of information that these forms contain. For example, they should all have the names of each party involved, as well as their signatures, addresses, and contact information. In terms of boat information, these should include the boat’s cost, its make, its model, the color of the vessel, and basically any other information that could be considered pertinent (the odometer, and so forth). If there are any witnesses to the signing, getting their signatures can be a good idea as well. 
What if I’m Buying or Selling a Registered Vessel? 
In that case, you're going to want to avail yourself of an official form called the “Transfer of Ownership.” This is a government form that has to be sent to Transport Canada. That’s where we come in. Here at the National Vessel Registry Center Corp., we make it easier than ever to fill out this form and send it to the authorities. You can find this form at our site and fill it out from anywhere at any time. 
Where Can I Find More About Canadian Vessel Documentation? 
Just as you can fill out the Transfer of Ownership form at our site from anywhere at any time, you’re able to do the same for any other Canadian vessel documentation forms that you might need as well. So, no matter where you’re looking for more information about a vessel, looking to register it with Transport Canada, or you're looking to renew that documentation, you can do that here. To see everything that we can help with, head to our site today. 

When the ownership of a vessel is transmitted from one person to another, an Alberta bill of sale and guarantee of title is a formal document provided to the vessel's new proprietor. In addition to ensuring that the new owner of the vehicle has a clean title to the vehicle, the paperwork also provides information regarding the various guarantees that the previous owner extends. In any transaction in which the possession of the property is being transferred from one party to another, a bill of sale is required.

It applies not only to automobiles but also to tractors, trailers, watercraft, campers, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and even airplanes. If you purchased something that wasn't registered in your name, you should get a bill of sale before driving it off the property, even if you paid cash for it. This would be the case even if the item were already paid for. The following are some advantages of possessing an Alberta bill of sale:
It Protects You from Legal Problems
Buying a yacht is a big choice that requires careful consideration of many factors. Many purchase badly constructed or low-quality boats because they need to gain the knowledge to avoid these pitfalls. However, buying a yacht doesn't have to be complicated, and picking out the perfect model is a breeze for many people. Buying a watercraft from a private party requires the Alberta bill of sale.

If any legal complications arise from the acquisition of your watercraft, the Alberta bill of sale will have your back. It specifies in no uncertain terms who now owns the yacht, who is responsible for its maintenance, and how much was paid for it. Having an Alberta Bill of sale will help you swiftly and easily resolve any legal issues or conflicts arising from the transaction, as it will identify all parties involved.
It Saves Time and Money
An Alberta bill of sale is a crucial piece of paper for any watercraft owner. Yacht registration is useful even if you don't plan on selling your vessel. A Bill of sale is a legal record that certifies the sale of an item and includes the buyer's and seller's details, along with the purchase price and other terms of the deal. It's vital for legal and practical reasons; the latter can help you save time and money. Scenario: you're trying to unload your yacht on a new owner.

To sell it, you and the customer must complete many papers; however, with a Bill of sale, the process will go more smoothly for everyone involved. In particular, a Bill of sale verifies the buyer's possession. They streamline the funding process when used with a marine finance application, eliminating the need for a marine survey.
It Makes Things Easier For Buyers and Sellers
It's simple to consider the proprietor and potential buyers as the only two people engaged when discussing a yacht. Many parties, including title firms, financiers, assessors, and even maritime technicians, need assurance that a person is the ship's legal proprietor. To make things simpler for everyone, a bill of sale should be used to verify that the buyer and seller are in accord regarding the boat's possession and should be used to protect all parties involved in the event of a dispute. A bill of sale not only proves who the rightful proprietors are between two parties.

A formal boat history log is a proof tool that benefits not only the private individuals who might own the vessel but also anyone with a vested interest in the vessel's ownership. Having a title business verify the legitimacy of a bill of sale can protect both parties from fraudulent transactions (buyers paying for boats they don't own and sellers receiving payments for vessels they don't own).

An Alberta Bill Of Sale Gives Information About Your Boat
Boat possession can be transferred from one person to another with the help of a Deed of Sale issued in the province of Alberta. Registering a yacht with Transport Canada in Canada merely notifies law enforcement agencies of the boat's proprietor and any debt holders. Only the Alberta Bill of sale can prove who legally owns the vessel. The Bill of sale is a legal document between the boat's customer and vendor that details the purchase price, date of purchase, and any outstanding balance.

Information about your yacht that could be useful in an accident is included in a Bill of sale. A yacht insurance claim, for instance, may require proof of ownership and the boat's worth; a Bill of sale from Alberta can serve this purpose. An Alberta Bill of sale is a formal document, so before you execute it, you should review it thoroughly to ensure it contains the language you need.

If you are purchasing a boat or watercraft or have bought one in the past, you may need to fill out an Alberta bill of sale for your records. Registering your vessel with the National Vessel Registry Center is also required. Contact us today for more information.

The Transport Canada registry is only for vessels that are actively being used commercially in Canada. If for some reason yours isn’t being used, you can go through the deletion certificate process. 
Deletion of a Certificate From the Transport Canada Registry
The process of deletion of a certificate from the Transport Canada registry will make it official that the registration or licence in question is no longer a part of the registry of vessels. Once this deletion is processed, the vessel is no longer allowed to operate commercially in Canadian waters, for they are no longer part of the official registry. This can be quite a useful tool in plenty of cases, but not all boat owners are aware of them, which is why we have all the information you might need about the process right here on our documentation portal. When might you need to file for this vessel deletion? Here’s what you need to do.
The Boat Can No Longer Be Operational
The most common reason for which people tend to file for deletion of a vessel’s documentation is that the boat in question is no longer operational. This might be for all sorts of reasons. It might have been damaged beyond repair in an accident, it could be retired from use due to age, or it might have even sunk. Regardless of the reason for ceasing use of the vessel, it will be important to file for its deletion from the Transport Canada registry. All you need to do is request the deletion certificate using the form that you find on the site menu. Once the deletion is processed, you will receive the certificate that will serve as proof of such.
The Boat Will Be Registered Elsewhere
You should know that a boat can never be simultaneously registered with the transportation authorities of two different countries, which is why, if you wish to register the boat in a different country, you will first need to delete it from the Transport Canada registry. This might be done because the owner is moving abroad and taking the boat along with them, or because the vessel is being sold to someone residing outside of Canada. Either way, you will need to file for deletion, since it’s very likely that the new registering authority will ask for the deletion certificate in order to process the new documentation. You can simply go to the deletion form on our sidebar in order to fill it out and submit it through our processors to Transport Canada.


File For Deletion from the Registry
Documenting your vessel will always be an important component of your boat ownership here in Canada, which is why we don’t want you to have to go through this process alone. At the National Vessel Registry Center, we have everything that you might need in order to take care of these processes. Whether you are getting your boat registration or your pleasure craft licence with Transport Canada, you will find all the tools that you might need right here on our website. And, should you need any more information or assistance with the application process or by filling out the forms, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help. You will get your documentation processed in no time.

Boaters in Canada who are new to boating may confuse getting a license for their boat with registration. You cannot license and register your boat simultaneously and the two forms of documents are not the same. You can use this link to apply for a Canada pleasure craft licence. 
Licensing vs Registration: How They Differ
Canadian boat owners can only choose licensing or registration. They can’t combine these forms of lawful documentation. If you own a boat that has a 10+ horsepower (7.5 kW) motor, you can choose either to license it or register.

Some boat owners prefer to license their boat, as they don’t plan to name it or boat a great deal of the time. For example, they might only be going fishing for a few weekends out of the year, so keeping a license on board makes more sense.

However, if you want to spend most of your time sailing and boating, or venturing out of Canada’s waters, you’re better off opting for obtaining a certificate of registry. This document allows you to give your boat a name and display it on the boat’s exterior, including its home port of registry. You also can fly the Canadian flag - great for those times you want to venture out of your home country.

In addition, registration makes it easier for you to buy marine insurance for your boat or take out a marine loan. You’ll need to renew a registration every three years to keep it in force.

If you don’t need all the benefits that come with registration, you can quickly receive a license for your boat and an official license number. You’ll want to keep the license onboard and display your license number on each side of the bow above the water line.

If you register your boat, you’ll receive a HIN (hull identification number). Make sure your number is seen by painting it or using marine decals of a block print like Arial. The letters should be 3 inches high and contrast nicely against the background.

A boating license in Canada lasts 10 years, so you don’t have to worry too much about keeping the I.D. in force in the meantime. If you buy a new boat, the boat seller should take care of the licensing. You’ll also need to transfer the license number in case you sell your boat.
Main Advantages of a Boating Licence
Some boaters choose to license their boat so they can start boating right away and they can do so at a lower cost. Going online and getting a license is super simple and fast and inexpensive. If you want to stay legal and enjoy the great outdoors, having a license is a type of passport.
Simple and Fast
The licensing process in Canada, again, is easy. You only have to go online and electronically get the card. You can obtain a pleasure craft license (PCL)  without going through the bureaucratic headaches of other types of government processes.
License a Boat in the U.S. or Canada
If you live next to the Canadian border and are from the U.S., you can get a PCL without a citizenship requirement. So, if you’re a non-Canadian, you can freely use your license without difficulty.
Get Licensed at a Lower Cost
Compared to other countries, Canada does not charge a lot of money to obtain or renew a PCL. Therefore, getting the license is a cost-effective way for a boater to enjoy the waterways conveniently and affordably.
Compliance Made Easy
If you’re an enthusiastic sailor, having a boat that is licensed ensures that you’re complying with all global maritime regulations. When a Canadian boat is legal, it tells law enforcement that the owner is committed to following maritime rules - locally and internationally. It also prevents problems with any limitations you may face without the document.
Easier Boating Access
Indeed, having a license is a key that opens the door to the Canadian outdoors. Your license is your entry to British Columbian shores, Ontario’s Great Lakes, and the enchantment of Quebec. When you have this type of affordable access, you can open yourself up to some exciting adventures over the Canadian waterways.

In conclusion, choosing to license your boat in Canada provides numerous benefits, from simplifying the registration process and minimizing fees to ensuring international compliance and granting access to breathtaking Canadian waterways. With such great incentives on offer, it's no wonder that boaters are increasingly turning to Canada as their preferred destination for boating and licensing.

Get Your Licensing Online Today
The Canadian Vessel Registry makes it easy for you to get a license for a recreational boat. Take the next step as a boat owner - get licensed online today.

Owning your own boat can be one of the greatest pleasures in life. It is a wonderful privilege to be able to share Canada's many seas and lakes with your friends and family. There are numerous similarities between driving on the open road and boating on an open lake. Cruising on the highway or the sea with your friends and loved ones at your side, going wherever the journey may take you, gives you a certain kind of freedom. But boating is a privilege that also has responsibilities, just like driving does. There are several reasons why you may want to join the Transport Canada registry.  It goes without saying that you wouldn't operate a vehicle without a license and registration, and the same rule holds true for boating and Transport Canada credentials.
Transport Canada Overseeing Canadian Waters
Transport Canada is the government organization responsible for all maritime transportation matters as well as issuing Pleasure Craft Licenses (PCLs) and vessel registrations, and as such, likes to keep up with ownership changes. As a result, it is required by law that you properly record the change of ownership, name, and address changes of your vessel.Fortunately, the process is not too challenging, and at the National Vessel Registry Center, we can guide you through it swiftly and securely online.

Transport Canada is also tasked with governing and overseeing a great number of maritime transportation-related issues. They keep an eye on environmental conservation activities while simultaneously working to ensure the safety of all boaters. Canadians may enjoy our natural seas with the knowledge that safety precautions are in place for everyone on board their sailboat thanks to this government organization.
How Does Transport Canada Affect Boat Owners?
Being in charge of transportation policy at the federal level covers a lot of ground. You might be wondering how this government agency affects you and other boat owners throughout the country. There is a high chance that you have experience dealing with the Transport Canada registry if you own and run your own boat. This organization manages and prescribes license and registration requirements for boaters all throughout the nation because, since the Canada Shipping Act of 2001, it has been responsible for overseeing marine issues in Canada. 

All motorized vehicles with a horsepower of 10 or greater require a Pleasure Craft License. This document is given by Transport Canada. The same goes for your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), which confirms your boating competency in Canadian waters. In reality, Transport Canada is in charge of a wider range of boating-related documentation issues. You may anticipate dealing with some paperwork with the Canadian government, regardless of your level of boating experience or whether you have just bought your first boat.
Transport Canada Registration of Boats
The majority of Canadian boat owners utilize their boats largely for recreational activities. Whatever the main appeal, recreational activities only call for a PCL when a boat has a horsepower of 7.5 kW or more. It might be sightseeing, water skiing, or even fishing. You must register your boat with Transport Canada if you plan to use it to generate income. All boats involved in commercial operations, such as charters and commercial fishing, must be registered with the Small Vessel Registry. Additionally, you also need a special form from Transport Canada if you're planning to sail in international waters. 
Why Join Transport Canada Registry?
The act of registering your boat does have some advantages. Once this process is finished, your boat will have a truly unique name that will set you apart from other boaters using Canadian waters. You are also given the right to fly the Canadian flag when you are in international or foreign waters. Having your boat registered in the government's database can help with the search and rescue or recovery process in the unlikely event that it is lost or stolen.


Register and Handle All Forms Online
As you have already guessed, collecting a wide set of documents is necessary to complete most of the paper documentation for Transport Canada. Although you have the option of doing this via mail, there is a quicker and more secure way to do it online. We offer simple-to-complete online applications to transfer a PCL or vessel registration at the National Vessel Registry Center. We make it simple to attach electronic versions of your extra papers, and we rely on an SSL-encrypted web interface to communicate your personal data.

The National Vessel Registry Center is a private service provider that helps boat owners quickly and effectively submit their paperwork requests online. We provide easy-to-use online forms for a variety of things, including licenses for pleasure boating and vessel registration. Take a few minutes to browse our website to find out more about how to submit your application through our SSL-encrypted, safe web portal.

 

If you live in Canada, you already know why boating is a popular pastime. With Canada’s beautiful scenery, you can’t help but get addicted to boating activities. However, before you embark on a journey, you need to make sure you meet the country’s boat regulations and take care of your boat license in BC and its requirements.
Requirements for Licensing
If you own a pleasure craft that has a 10-horsepower (7.5 kW) engine, you need to get licensed. In return, you’ll receive a number that must be displayed on each side of the boat’s bow above the water line. The number should be clearly visible and must be painted or applied with sturdy vinyl decal cut-outs.

Use Arabic numbers that are, preferably, at least 4 inches high and space them so they're easy to read. You’ll also need to keep your paperwork and number onboard your watercraft at all times.
Boat License in BC and Pleasure Craft Regulations in Canada
Boat licensing, along with the pleasure craft regulations established by Transport Canada, play a major role in ensuring safe boating in Canada. Here are some reasons why compliance is important when it comes to operating a boat on Canada’s waterways.

Safety: A primary goal of licensing is to promote safety on the water. By maintaining a license, a boater supports their safety and the safety of others in an emergency. Again, each licensee receives a number so they can be found in case they get lost or they’re involved in an accident.

This allows a search-and-rescue team to find a boater in an emergency event. Also, if your boat is stolen, a number offers a point of reference. Boaters who remain compliant also are more cognizant of certain precautions, such as carrying the proper equipment or what they must do to maintain their vessel to keep it safe.

Environmental Protection: Understanding and adhering to boating regulations helps protect Canada's precious aquatic ecosystems. Licensed boaters are also expected to follow best practices for keeping animals and wildlife areas safeguarded and clean.

Legal Compliance: Operating a vessel without a valid boat license can result in fines or other penalties. Ensuring you have the necessary license demonstrates your commitment to following Canada’s law while enjoying your favorite water activities.
Obtaining a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC)
Sometimes a boat license is confused with a pleasure craft operator card (PCOC). However, the two documents are distinctly different. A PCOC is used to show that you have studied the required and approved coursework to navigate your pleasure craft. This card never expires.

A boat license, on the other hand, can be compared to a license plate you display on a car. You can get the license online through the Canadian Vessel Registry. You’ll need to show that you are the owner of the boat with a bill of sale. The license must be renewed every 10 years. 
A Boating Registration Versus Licensing
If you plan to travel international waters, you’ll need to register your boat, as doing so will give you easier access to marinas and popular docking sites. You can also name your boat, feature the port of entry, and fly the Canadian flag.

Just like a license, registration requires that you own a boat with an engine that is at least 10 horsepower or 7.5 kW. You must register your boat, as well, if you plan to finance your vessel. Taking out a boat loan requires registration. Whether you register your boat or apply for a license, the activity is meant to identify your boat and its owner in case of an accident, theft, or similar event.

Apply for Boat Licensing Now
If you own a pleasure craft that requires boat licensing, you can easily apply for your license number on the Canadian Vessel Registry. Boats without licenses are subject to a hefty fine. That’s why licensing is a big deal. To remain compliant and safe, you need to make getting a license a priority.

If you are the owner of a boat in Canada, you are responsible for ensuring that your boat has the appropriate documentation filed with the government. Boat documentation might be challenging to understand and intimidating, yet it must be carried out accurately. Here is where we come in to play! Because we are knowledgeable in the field of documentation services for Canadian boats, we will ensure that the procedure is carried out efficiently. At the National Vessel Registry Center, we provide Canadian vessel owners with a comprehensive selection of tailored documentation services to meet their specific needs. We have a staff that is both experienced and informed, and we are here to assist you in obtaining the documents that you want. The following are some of the reasons why you should choose our company to handle the paperwork requirements for your vessel:
We Offer Fast, Efficient Service
At the National Vessel Registry Center, we take great pleasure in getting the job done correctly, and we are just as pleased that we have been able to do this for a diverse range of customers. Every single one of our clients has a different group of requirements, and we are glad to be adaptable to fulfill all of them. In the end, we want to make sure that everyone comes out ahead, and we believe that our years of expertise in this industry are reflected in how we do business. You can be confident that your interests will be taken care of by individuals who know what they are doing, no matter what sort of transaction you need to complete or what kind of vessel you need documentation for. This is true regardless of the kind of vessel you require documentation for.
We're Knowledgeable about All Aspects of Canadian Vessel Documentation
Even though the National Vessel Registry Center is a sizable business, we are in it for the long haul. Our employees undergo extensive training, making them some of the most educated people in their profession. We are familiar with the procedural intricacies, specifics, and nuances involved with Canadian vessel documentation, in addition to the legal framework surrounding it. 

Because of this information, we can simplify the process of registering your vehicle and ensure that you get precisely what you want, from a single title to a complete renewal and everything in between. We assure you that whatever time you spend with us will be time well spent. From the beginning to the end, it is our responsibility to ensure that all of your needs are met. We have been instrumental in the early stages of success for many small firms, and we would be happy to do the same for you.
We Have Years of Experience in the Industry
Boat documentation is intricate and requires a thorough understanding of many rules and regulations. Finding a company with the expertise and resources to meet your objectives might be challenging. Many of our employees have years of experience in the boating industry, including buying and selling boats and registering commercial vessels. We are a registered Registrar that can assist Canadian property owners no matter where they happen to be. 

The satisfaction of our customers around the nation is the foundation upon which our business was founded. We employ a client-centered approach, which means we'll pay close attention to your specific requirements and concerns before settling on a course of action. Because we appreciate that every client's needs differ, we design individualized strategies to meet them. When you have any inquiries or concerns about the paperwork for your vessel, you may contact your designated representative directly.


We're always Up-To-Date on Changes to the Regulations Governing Boat Documentation.
National Vessel Registry Center is the best choice for all your boat documentation requirements since we keep abreast of any changes to the rules regulating such paperwork. You may have heard that conducting your registration will save you money, but this is only true if you have free and easy access to up-to-date information online. Self-registration requires familiarity with the most recent federal law and all applicable provincial and territory laws, rules, and regulations. 

Maintaining currency with the ever-evolving rules is essential. If you retain our services, we will provide you access to our comprehensive Canadian rules and laws database. If any changes to federal or provincial law impact your vessel registration, we will let you know about them as soon as we learn about them. We'll also let you know about any forthcoming changes so you can prepare for them in advance.

The National Vessel Registry Center is here to provide clients with the best possible boat documentation experience. 

If you're a Canadian boat owner, it's essential to make sure you're registered with Transport Canada. Boat owners who register their vessels satisfy not only a legal need but also get access to various perks. In this article, we will examine why you are required to register your yacht and the steps involved in the registration procedure. In addition, we will provide some guidance on how to simplify the sign-up procedure as much as is humanly possible. The following is a list of justifications for why you ought to do this:
It’s the Law
You must notify Transport Canada that you own a boat to have it legally recognized as such. Even if you hope it never happens, having an official record of your boat might be helpful if it is lost or damaged. The government will notify you of any information they find out about your boat if it is registered with Transport Canada. Keeping tabs on how many boats are circulating in Canada requires the government to access this data. For safety reasons, authorities seek to limit the number of watercraft in the area. The authorities will be better able to enforce regulations, such as speed limits and boat parking restrictions if they have a better idea of how many boats are out there. If you provide the Canadian Coast Guard with your contact information when registering your boat, they can get in touch with you if they ever locate your boat floating or on dry ground.
It's Easy and Online
Boat registration is simple and may be done quickly and easily online. You must save your proof of insurance and the registration card you get in the mail after signing up. Suppose the authorities discover you without these things and you don't have a reasonable explanation for their absence (such as theft). You may be subject to monetary penalties and temporary detention in that case. It is also highly recommended that you carry your registration card and insurance documentation at all times whenever you take your boat outside of Canada. In addition, Transport Canada recommends registering your yacht with a Canadian province for further protection; doing so will not prevent you from incurring penalties or detention costs (should you incur them), but it may lessen their severity.
Your Boat Will Be Legal When You Register With Transport Canada
Few boaters know it, but Transport Canada requires registering every watercraft. Most boaters assume that only boats stored on larger bodies of water need to be registered, but this is not the case. Boats kept at marinas or on inland lakes also need to be registered. Looking at your boat's official registration can tell you when it was created, what engine it has, whether it has been improved, and if the hull has been changed, if any (such as by adding or removing another hull). If your boat ever disappears, they'll be able to utilize this data to find it. The boat's identifying number is permanently marked in two places: the dashboard and the hull (the part of the boat that is underwater). Using this code, they may determine which boat belongs to which owner.


You'll get a Certificate of Registration.
Boat registration is a simple method to let the Canadian authorities know you have a boat in the country. They don't care how expensive or flashy your yacht is; they want to know it exists. Such documentation will come in handy if you find yourself in legal hot water (hey, it happens to the best of us!) or if the rightful owner comes forward to accuse you of theft. Those who make their homes on their boats or who spend significant time in Canadian waters are the ones who should register the most. 

Registering your boat assures that Transport Canada will know it is being cared for if anything happens to you and you aren't there to do so. People who don't register their boats run the risk of being asked by the government for a favor in an emergency requiring boats for rescue operations. We can help you to register your boat or receive a pleasure craft licence, too. 

An important but under-discussed piece of boat documentation is the deletion certificate, which will be key in regard to moving forward with your vessel in different case scenarios. Here, you will find all the information you need about the deletion application.
Vessel Documentation Deletion Certificate
A vessel documentation deletion certificate is the document that makes it official that the registration or license in question has been deleted from the Transport Canada registry of vessels. Once this certificate is processed, the vessel is no longer allowed to operate in Canadian waters, for they are no longer part of the official registry. This serves as a very useful tool in a variety of cases, but not everyone is aware of them, which is why we have all the information you might need about the process right here on our documentation portal. When might you need to file for vessel deletion? Let’s take a look.
The Vessel Is No Longer Operational
The most common reason for which people tend to file for the deletion of a vessel’s documentation is that the boat in question is no longer operational. This might be for all sorts of reasons. It might have been damaged beyond repair in an accident, it could be retired from use due to age, or it might have even sunk. Regardless of the reason for ceasing use of the vessel, it will be important to file for its deletion from the registry. All you have to do is request the deletion certificate using the corresponding form that you find on the sidebar. Once the deletion is processed, you will receive the certificate that will serve as proof of such.
The Vessel Is Being Registered Abroad
A vessel can’t be simultaneously registered with the maritime authorities of two different countries, which is why in order to register in a different country, it will first need to be deleted from the Canadian registry. This might be done because the owner is moving abroad and taking the boat along with them, or because the vessel is being sold to someone residing outside of Canada. Either way, you will need to file for deletion, since it’s very likely that the new registering authority will ask for the deletion certificate in order to process the new documentation. Head over to the deletion form on our sidebar in order to fill it out and submit it through our processors to Transport Canada.

File For Deletion of Your Documentation
Transport Canada bureaucracy, like all sorts of administrative paperwork, can be quite annoying and inconvenient, which is why we here at the National Vessel Registry Center want to make it all easier for you. Our platform has everything you need in regard to vessel documentation, be it your registration, your license, or other similar documents. And the best part is that should you need any help at some point in the process, we are ready to address your doubts and questions. Just reach out to us by way of our contact page through email or phone. Our team wants to make sure that you process your documentation application without any trouble.

Did you know that if you are a boat owner in Canada, you may register your vessel with the federal government of Canada? There are several reasons you should register your boat, including that it will be simpler for you to sell or transfer ownership of it and provide you with some legal protection in the event of an accident. Boating opportunities abound across Canada's stunning landscape of many lakes, rivers, and other waterways.  In addition, if you are the owner of a boat, doing a Canadian vessel registration is the best method to guarantee that you are eligible for all of the advantages Canada has to offer those participating in recreational boating. Just a few of the many reasons why you should seriously consider registering your vehicle in Canada are as follows:
Legal Protection
It's tempting to believe that you'll be providing yourself with the finest possible legal protection by registering your yacht in the United States. However, there are additional legal advantages to having your Canadian vessel registration. You could assume that registering your vessel in the United States is sufficient because that country is a party to several international agreements and treaties designed to safeguard marine interests. 

The country of the boat's owner is usually used as the country of origin. For instance, if an American citizen resides in Canada and buys a boat from a dealer in Ontario, the boat must be registered with the Canadian government as an Ontario vessel. Once back in the United States, the owner has a year to transfer the vehicle's registration certificate from Ontario to the jurisdiction where they reside before being required to do so.
Increased Safety Standards
Canadian vessels have stricter safety requirements than those of other nations. As a result, your ship will be subject to stricter safety requirements and inspections. If you were an American boat owner, your vessel might not comply with Canadian safety standards since American standards constructed it. All boats registered in Canada are subject to Transport Canada's (TC) stringent regulations, regardless of their construction country. If you register your boat in Canada, it will automatically meet the world's strictest safety regulations. 

This means you and anybody else who uses your boat will be less likely to be hurt. Some worry that registering their yacht in a foreign country poses unnecessary safety hazards. How long would it take for someone to respond if you called an international emergency number while you were out on the water? Or suppose you suddenly realized you needed medical help.
National Registry
You undoubtedly already know that many U.S. marinas and boatyards refuse to accept boats flying flags other than Canada's unless they are Canadian registered. Since the federal Boat Safety Act mandates that all recreational vessels over 21 feet in length have a "certificate of documentation," a fancy term for Canadian vessel registration, this is the outcome. This may not seem like a big deal, but it is a major hassle for many individuals. Many Americans with waterfront houses in Canada or who maintain their boats in Canada but work for American firms have told us they often cross the border to go boating on weekends or vacations. 

In addition to the difficulty of actually locating a marina that would accept their yachts, boat owners whose vessels are not Canadian registered also run the risk of being denied service. It makes sense to register your boat in Canada if you want to retain it there or if you intend to spend a substantial amount of time aboard it in Canada.


Easier Sale or Transfer Through a Canadian Vessel Registration
If your boat is registered in Canada, selling it or transferring ownership to someone else is a breeze. There are no unusual customs fees or exemptions that must be applied for. Just prove to the Canadian authorities that the ship has been officially transferred into your name. This is a far simpler option than selling an American boat abroad and then dealing with the hassle of bringing it back into the nation. 

Those in the market for a secondhand boat will find Canadian vessel registration particularly appealing since it may facilitate the vessel's return to U.S. waters with little red tape. If you discover a fantastic bargain on a pre-owned boat in Canada, you won't have to pay for elaborate customs procedures or fret about whether or not you'll be allowed to bring it back into the United States.

Please get in touch with us with inquiries about the National Vessel Registry Center, the industry leader in boat registration. For over 30 years, we've been helping people like you all throughout the nation, and we're happy to provide you with all the data you need to make a wise choice. 

If you own a boat in Canada, you must have a solid understanding of the laws and guidelines governing boating. To operate a watercraft in Canadian waters, you need to have a boating license, which is a need that may not be immediately clear to some people. It is not only needed by law in certain areas but may also be handy if you ever need to take your boat out on the water. If you live in a province with such a rule, it is highly recommended that you comply with it. Here are a few of the most compelling arguments in favor of earning your boating license:
Law in Some Provinces requires it.
Everyone on the boat is counting on you to make sound judgments while on the water. If you've never applied for a license before, just looking at the laundry list of requirements might make you feel overwhelmed. Navigational regulations, light and signal regulations, and climate regulations all exist. All of that information is vital to the well-being of everyone on board, but it may be overwhelming without proper organization. Choosing the boat you will be piloting is the first order of business. For instance, whether your boat has an inboard engine can affect which handbook you use. 

It will also guide your search for the appropriate boating license. A motorboat license is required for any vessel with an inboard engine, a sailboat license is required for any vessel propelled by means other than an inboard engine, and a personal watercraft (PWC) license is required for any vessel less than seven meters in length that lack a sail and are capable of speeds greater than 32 kilometers per hour (20 knots). Then familiarize yourself with the sections of the guide that are most relevant to your boat.
The Boating License Test Covers Important Topics like Safety And Navigation
Boating is a potentially hazardous activity, as we all know. You are in a dangerous situation since you are running a massive piece of equipment on a body of water that already presents several dangers. To ensure your and others safety on the water, familiarizing yourself with the relevant legislation is essential. You will learn how to prevent accidents with other boats and objects, how to read tides and currents, what to do in the event of a problem or accident, and even how to make basic repairs to your boat as part of getting your boating license. This information is crucial for your safety, whether you're a novice boater or haven't driven a boat in a while. Licensed boaters are safer on the water and less prone to cause incidents. Getting a boating license might help you avoid higher insurance rates and penalties for infractions.
A Boating License Can Help You Avoid Fines If You're Stopped by the Coast Guard or Other Authorities
Those with experience in the water highly recommend a boating license. Doubts may appear, after all, what extra rule is this? However, if you are caught boating without a license, it might cost you a lot of money. There's a part of you that wonders how much trouble it would be to cruise out for a little while and see what happens. But then something occurs and you realize you don't have a boating license yet and so you will face the consequences. 

Surely the United States does not have coast guard vessels monitoring every lake and river? There are, though. The whole weight of the law may be brought down upon you if you are caught without the proper identification, just as there are bike police on main thoroughfares and undercover officers at concerts and schools.


It's A Great Way to Prove That You're Knowledgeable About Boat Safety and Operation
Your fear of boats may be justified if you've never been on one. A basic boating license may demonstrate that you know the regulations and procedures for operating a watercraft, regardless of your experience with sailing or small motorboats (even if it's six years' worth). This information might benefit getting boat insurance, financing, or even just renting a boat. Boats are a significant investment. Therefore it's prudent to be well-prepared before buying one. 

Getting a boating license proves that you've studied boating safety, operation, weather conditions, and rules if you want to avoid making expensive errors on the water. This may save you money in the long run by preserving your investment and keeping you out of problems with law enforcement personnel patrolling near the lake or ocean where your boat is anchored.

By getting a boat license, you're showing that you're responsible enough to follow the rules set by the government; it's also a way for the government to hold boaters accountable for their actions on the water. We can help with many boat documentation forms. 

Boat transfers in Canada can be a complex process, requiring many forms and permits to be obtained. If you are looking to buy or sell a boat, it is important to understand the requirements for a successful transfer. In Canada, Transport Canada is responsible for overseeing all aspects of boating, including the transfer of boats between owners. However, many boat owners have found that using a private online permit service like the National Vessel Registry can offer several benefits for your Canada boat transfer over going through Transport Canada directly.
Streamline Your Transfer Process
One of the biggest benefits of using the National Vessel Registry for your boat transfer is the ease and convenience of the process. In order to complete a Canada boat transfer with Transport Canada, the owner must send in a number of forms and documents, which can take time and be hard to understand. However, the National Vessel Registry provides a streamlined online platform that allows boat owners to easily submit all of the necessary paperwork and permits from the comfort of their own homes. This can save you a great deal of time and hassle, as you won't need to worry about navigating the often-confusing bureaucracy of Transport Canada.
Expert Assistance
When you use the National Vessel Registry to transfer your boat, you will also get expert advice and help at every step of the way. The National Vessel Registry has a team of well-trained professionals who know all about the rules for boating in Canada and can help you through the whole process of transferring. This can help you a lot if you are new to boating in Canada or don't know the rules and regulations about boat transfers. Also, the National Vessel Registry's website has a lot of helpful tools and resources, such as a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs), blog posts, and more, to make sure that your transfer goes smoothly.

One of the most important things to consider when doing a boat transfer in Canada is the legal and financial liability involved. When you transfer ownership of a boat, you are also transferring any legal or financial liability associated with that vessel. This can include things like unpaid taxes or fees, outstanding fines, or even legal disputes. By using a private online permit service like the National Vessel Registry, you can make sure that all of the legal and financial checks are done before the transfer is finalized. This can help protect both the buyer and the seller from any potential legal or financial headaches down the line.
Transferring Boat Ownership With A Pleasure Craft License
How you change who owns your boat will depend on how Transport Canada has written it up. A Pleasure Craft License (PCL) is required by the government under certain circumstances. Specifically, a PCL is required for any vessel with an engine of 10 horsepower or more that is operated for recreational purposes. You can transfer a PCL by signing it over to the new owner and providing the required documentation to Transport Canada: a bill of sale, copies of valid government identification for both the buyer and seller and a full-size, color photograph of the vessel's side profile.

Every vessel used for commercial purposes or that travels internationally under the Canadian flag must be registered with Transport Canada. This also applies to boats bought through a maritime mortgage. Transport Canada requires a Form 6—Bill of Sale and a Form 3—Statement of Qualification for processing when transferring ownership of a registered vessel.
All Your Boating Needs In One Location
In addition to these benefits, there are many other reasons why using the National Vessel Registry can be a better option than going through Transport Canada directly. For example, the National Vessel Registry offers many other services related to boating, such as boat registration, boat licenses, and even boat financing. This can make it a one-stop shop for all of your boating needs, saving you time and hassle in the long run.

Easily Complete Your Transaction Online By Using Our Web Forms
If you are looking to do a Canada boat transfer, using a private online permit service like the National Vessel Registry can offer many benefits over going through Transport Canada directly.  You can accomplish your ownership transfer utilizing our streamlined web forms. At the National Vessel Registration Center, we facilitate the online processing of your Transport Canada paperwork. 

The National Vessel Registry can help make sure that your transfer goes smoothly and that you get all the permits and paperwork you need. This can be done in a way that is easy and convenient for you, with the help of our experts. Additionally, by using the National Vessel Registry, you can help protect yourself from any potential legal or financial liabilities associated with the transfer. 

If you are looking for a better way to transfer ownership of your boat, consider using the National Vessel Registry for a streamlined, hassle-free experience. Contact one of our expert customer service representatives for additional information.

With the dregs of winter nearly in our rearview mirror, spring gives us cause for optimism. Soon the sun will be shining across Canada, thawing the thick ice that sits atop our plentiful freshwater lakes. As waterways open up, boaters all over the country will be hitching their vessels to their trailers and heading for the dock. If you happen to share this privilege, you will want to ensure that your pleasure craft licence (PCL) is current with your province as well as Transport Canada.

Maybe your licence is expired, or nearing its renewal date. Perhaps you are new to boating, and have just finalized the purchase of your very own pleasure craft. Regardless of the circumstances that brought you here, without an up-to-date licence, you can find yourself stranded on the shore while the precious boating days of summer melt away. To learn more about the licensing process, as well as how a private service such as ours can help, read on below.


What is a Pleasure Craft Licence, and Do I Need One?
There’s a fair amount of preparation that takes place before a boat can leave the dock for the first time of the season. You need to make sure it’s been cleaned, gassed up, and in good shape maintenance-wise. You also have to ensure that you have an ample supply of life jackets for your passengers, as well as taking other important safety measures. Perhaps most critically, however, you need to make sure that you have the proper licence and other documentation in order to operate your vessel legally. 

In Canada, you are required to carry a boat licence if your vessel is motorized with horsepower greater than 10. As you can imagine, that applies pretty broadly to most boats out on the water, including personal watercraft like jet skis. You are exempt from this requirement if your boat has been entered into the National Vessel Registry. There is also a 90 day grace period for recently purchased boats–you have that time window to submit your application, and with proof of doing so (a photocopy will suffice), you can still take your boat out.
Is a Boat operator Licence and Boating Pleasure Craft Licence the Same Thing?
The simple reality is owning a boat can come with a significant amount of paperwork. Before you can enjoy the freedom of the open water, there are some bureaucratic duties that must first be fulfilled. If you are looking to operate a vessel with a horsepower of more than 10, you will need to obtain a boating licence, officially referred to as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC).

While a boat licence is a licence for your boat, a boating licence–PCOC–is your proof of competency for operating it. This is not dissimilar from a driver’s licence, as it is basically evidence that you know what you are doing out on the water. To acquire your PCOC, you will need to complete an educational course and pass an exam. Once you have received your licence, you should keep it on your person at all times while operating your vessel. The current fine for being caught without one is $250, so it is financially unwise to be forgetful in this regard.
How Can I Get My Licence?
So, the transaction has been completed and you are now officially a boat owner. In order to get your licence, you will need to submit a PCL application to Transport Canada. You can do this by visiting their website and locating the appropriate application form. After you have printed this document, you will need to fill it out with a few pieces of key information, including your name, address, the name and address of the previous owner, and some key facts about the vessel itself.

Once you have finished that step, there is also some supporting documentation that you will need to provide. This includes proof of ownership, a copy of your official government ID, and a full side-profile photograph of your vessel. Next, you will need to package everything together and mail it to Transport Canada’s offices in Ottawa.
Is There a Simpler Way?
Not everybody has the time to print a bunch of documents, ink them up by hand, and then scurry down to the post office before it closes for the day. Fortunately, there is an easier solution for obtaining your PCL, and the National Vessel Registry Center can help.

We offer an easy-to-navigate, streamlined website that contains a multitude of forms and applications for Canadian boaters. Using our encrypted web portal, you can upload your supporting documents and complete your application in just a matter of minutes. To learn more about how we can help you get back out onto the water, take a few moments and explore our website. If you need vessel documentation in Canada, we have got you covered.

In today's world we have all the information we need in our pockets, we can easily search the weather, buy equipment for our vessel and look up information that could be essential to our boat. Understanding the usefulness of the Vessel Query System can be another reason to quickly check your phone to double check information. When you buy a boat, especially if it's used, you want to be sure that you have all the information about it that you will need to change it's port of registry or rename it.

Before you even make a purchase like a boat (which can cost a pretty penny) you would want to put in as much research as possible to be sure that it's a smart buying decision. Before you make that purchase you can use the Vessel Query System to find out important information about the boat like whether there are any outstanding liens, if there are any mortgages or issues that have been recorded.



You will want to be informed about mortgages and liens as they can become your responsibility if you choose to purchase the vessel. If you are the type of person that wants to avoid taking on a mortgage you can learn about these factors prior to buying a vessel. The Vessel Query System was created by the Canadian government agency called Transport Canada. Transport Canada is the agency responsible for the filing and registration of vessels throughout Canada as well as transportation in Canada. Transport Canada keeps a registry of all vessels that have been registered with them and it is accessible by the public (which means you have the ability to fact check all the information you want!). This information can become essential when you are buying from a secondary market or a private owner as it gives you an idea of the history of the boat. This can include when the boat was built if it was rebuilt and who owned it through its lifetime.

Interested in using the Vessel Query System? Just visit the Transport Canada website and once on their homepage you can enter a vessel's name or number. You can also use the advanced search. which can give you more specific results. If you currently own a vessel and don't have it registered you can do so with Transport Canada. You can also use a third-party service such as the National Vessel Registry Center Crop. We have all the forms you need, all in one place and they're in an easy to fill electronic format. We also have a dedicated staff that will double check your submissions for any errors. This can be particularly helpful when you want to avoid weeks of delay due to filling out the wrong information.  We can help in many ways so reach out today. 

If you have ever wondered what is the point of all the requirements and bureaucratic processes asked of boat owners, allow us to explain why complying with the Canada Shipping Act of 2001.
Complying With the Canada Shipping Act of 2001
The piece of legislature known as the Canada Shipping Act of 2001 was introduced in order to update and clarify maritime regulations for Canadian vessels. At the time, it had been well over a hundred years since the last major change to maritime law in the territory, so it was necessary to better establish widespread seafaring laws that could work in the 21st century. Its previous iteration, the British Merchant Shipping Act of 1894, had been amended time and time again for a century, to the point where it was necessary to update and organize it to ensure its efficiency in the new century. Complying with the Canada Shipping Act of 2001 will be important to maintain good standing with Transport Canada.
What is the Act For?
First of all, what is the act even for? When complying with the Canada Shipping Act of 2001, it’s good to understand why you are even complying with it. Here are the reasons behind the act in the first place:

The act intends to protect the health and well-being of individuals, including the crews of vessels, who participate in marine transportation and commerce;
It is meant to promote safety in marine transportation and recreational boating;
It protects the marine environment from damage due to navigation and shipping activities;
The act develops a regulatory scheme that encourages viable, effective, and economical marine transportation and commerce; 
There is a need to promote an efficient marine transportation system;
It develops a regulatory scheme that encourages the viable, effective, and economical use of Canadian waters by recreational boaters;
It ensures that Canada can meet its international obligations under bilateral and multilateral agreements with respect to navigation and shipping;
The act encourages the harmonization of marine practices; and 
It establishes an effective inspection and enforcement program.

Complying with the Canada Shipping Act of 2001
As the owner of a boat, you will need to understand that complying with the Canada Shipping Act of 2001 is important for all commercial vessels, as well for the registration and licensing of pleasure craft. When will it pertain to you?

If you own a non-pleasure vessel powered by an engine of 10hp (7.5kw) or more, or commercial river rafts in Canada, you must register them with Transport Canada's Canadian Register of Vessels or the Commercial Small Vessel Register.
For a pleasure craft, if you have a pleasure craft equipped with motors of 10 horsepower (7.5 kilowatts) or more, even if it is a personal watercraft, that is maintained or operated in Canada, you will need to obtain the corresponding license.

National Vessel Registry
If you need to submit any sort of form or update your registration, our team here at the National Vessel Registry Center is here to help you with complying with the Canada Shipping Act and any process relevant to Transport Canada applications. 

A bill of sale for a boat is an important document that serves as proof of transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer. While this document isn't required for all types of boats, it can make it easier to register your boat in Transport Canada's database or transfer ownership down the road. In this article, we'll go over what you need to know about the bill of sale, how it relates to your boat (which can be either commercial or recreational), and why you’d need it.
A Bill Of Sale for a Boat Is Important For Those Who Want To Sell 
For anyone planning to sell their boats in Canada, the Transport Canada bill of sale is a must-have in order for a safe and legal transaction to take place. It’s a document that explains the boat’s history and ownership and can be used to transfer ownership of a boat from one person to another. A bill of sale is required when you want to sell your boat if it is 7 meters or longer in length.

Transport Canada's mandate is to provide safety and security for all Canadians and their property, and to facilitate the movement of people and goods within Canada.

A Transport Canada bill of sale is required for all boats used in commercial, recreational, or personal fishing. A Transport Canada bill of sale is also required for all boats used in the freshwater and coastal waters of Canada.


You Will Need To Check Whether Yours is Eligible for a Boat Bill of Sale 
Before you buy a boat, it’s important that you check whether the Transport Canada bill of sale is mandatory.

The following information is based on the current regulations:

If your boat is 7 meters (20 feet) or longer and has an engine with a power output of 40 hp or higher, you must obtain a Transport Canada bill of sale before selling your vessel. The same applies if your vessel meets any one of the following criteria:


It has been modified from its original configuration;


is used for racing purposes; or
It was imported from another country.

What to Keep in Mind 
The requirement also applies if you want to register the boat with Transport Canada, or want to transfer its ownership from one person to another. If you do not have a bill of sale at this point in time, it means that your boat will not be registered and you will not be able to sell it or transfer ownership of it.

A Transport Canada Bill of Sale for boats form is used by sellers to prove that they have sold their boats legally. The form can also be used by buyers when they purchase boats as proof that they legally own them.
Boats That Don't Need A Bill Of Sale 
There are a few different types of boats that don’t need a bill of sale. Boats powered by engines (including jet skis) must have one, but boats without engines do not require one. Also, if the boat is used only for personal watercraft, canoes, and kayaks, it doesn’t need to be registered with Transport Canada.

If you have any related questions about your boat registration or bill of sale requirements, contact us today!
A Place for More Than a Bill of Sale for a Boat 
When you buy a boat, it's important to get a bill of sale for it. Why? Because this is the only way that someone can transfer ownership of their boat.

One person cannot be considered the owner of multiple boats unless they have bills of sale for each boat separately. This is because a bill of sale has two pieces: 1) the date on which ownership is transferred, and 2) signatures from both parties involved in the transaction (the seller and buyer). The reason why this information is essential when transferring ownership is so that there aren't any disputes later down the line about who owns what boat.

By using the bill of sale, you can transfer ownership to another person. This means that you won't have any legal obligations to the buyer once they are able to register their boat with Transport Canada on their own. You wouldn't want someone else taking responsibility for your boat if something goes wrong! We hope this article has helped clarify what a Transport Canada bill of sale is, and how it works. If you’d like to know more about the subject or about how to make the process faster and easier contact us at the National Vessel Registry Center.

In many ways, Ontario is a boater’s paradise. Home to more than 250,000 lakes, this Canadian province holds nearly one-fifth of the entire world’s fresh water supply. With such bountiful opportunities for boating, it is no wonder that people flock from all over to get out on Ontario’s waters. If you are a current Ontario resident and are considering selling your vessel, you are going to want to understand how to write a bill of sale for a boat. Perhaps you are planning to upgrade to a larger watercraft, or maybe you are turning to other leisure pursuits–regardless of the circumstances of your transaction, ensuring that all of your paperwork is in order can allow the process to go ahead smoothly.

Buying or selling a boat can be a considerable financial commitment. Not dissimilar to selling a car in that a large amount of money may be changing hands, you can understand the need for a fair degree of paperwork. In addition to signing over your Pleasure Craft License (PCL) and completing a transfer of ownership, a bill of sale provides a detailed record of the transaction, which may be needed for future Transport Canada documentation matters. 


How to Write a Bill of Sale for a Boat: Gathering Information
After finding a buyer for your boat, a new owner who can enjoy the vessel and create their own memories, you have negotiated and agreed on a price. You may have already arranged a date and time to turn over the keys. Your transaction is in its final stages, all that is left is composing the bill of sale.

Unlike other boat documentation, a bill of sale is not a rigid, government document. There are templates out there you can download and print, or you can create your own, provided it includes all of the necessary information. Some details you will want to fill in include:

The names of the buyer and seller
The price of the boat
The boat’s make, model, and manufacturer

While writing a bill of sale is a prudent move for your own records as the seller, the buyer may also require this document in registering the vessel. After completing the bill of sale, you will also want to sign over the PCL by adding your signature to the backside of the certificate. 

One of the great things about boating is that it is a lifelong hobby. Individuals of all ages can enjoy a day out on the water, and you and your family can form generational traditions on your vessel. Of course, as your life evolves and changes, so too may your boating needs or goals. Maybe you have found yourself looking to upgrade your vessel. Perhaps you are moving to a new location and need to find a new marina? Or, you could be wondering how to change a boat’s name.

When you first purchased your boat, you probably got acquainted with some basic paperwork. Perhaps you entered your boat into the Small Vessel Registry, or you had to obtain a Pleasure Craft License (PCL). As owning a boat comes with a degree of responsibility, you should be aware that there are continuous paperwork matters you will need to address throughout your time as a boat owner. Fortunately, working with a private service such as ours at the National Vessel Registry Center can help you resolve your documentation matters online.
How to Change a Boat’s Name
It is said that changing the name of a boat is bad luck. If you are not the superstitious kind, however, there is a formal process to complete when changing the name of a registered vessel. You will need to locate what is called a “Form 13 - Application for Change of Name of Vessel and/or Transfer of Port of Registry.” This document is made available by Transport Canada and will ask you for a handful of details about your boat in order to complete this process. 

If you are changing your vessel’s name, you may use the opportunity to have a ceremony–which could also serve to ward off any bad luck. With your friends, family, and plenty of champagne, you can formally christen your vessel’s new moniker and appease Poseidon, the God of the Sea.
Changing Your Boat’s Port of Registry
Has a change of job or other life event prompted you to move? This is a fairly common occurrence, though, for boat owners, it can require some bureaucratic maneuvering. On top of packing up your vessel and hitching it to your truck, you will also need to establish a new port of registry. Fortunately, this can also be done with the aforementioned “Form 13 - Application for Change of Name of Vessel and/or Transfer of Port of Registry.” Simply select a port from the available options, complete the form, and submit it to Transport Canada for processing. 

One of the great aspects of boating is that it can be a lifelong hobby. People of all ages can own and operate their own boats, giving them the freedom to take their friends and family out on the water whenever they wish. Of course, as your life’s journey unfolds, you may find that your boating needs evolve and change. Perhaps you need to sell your boat because you are unable to use it as much as you would like. Maybe you have outgrown your current vessel and are looking to make an upgrade. If you are planning to buy or sell your vessel, you will want to have a firm understanding of how to complete a Transport Canada bill of sale.

As a seller, it is your top priority to get a fair price for your boat. With this goal in mind, you will want to thoroughly clean and polish your vessel, giving it maximum visual appeal. You should also make sure that all of your maintenance is in order so you are not selling a lemon. From there, you will want to create a dynamic online or print listing that sells the finer qualities of your boat. Once you have found a buyer and negotiated a price, there will be a bit of paperwork to complete. Namely, you will want to know your way around a bill of sale.
Licensed vs. Registered Vessels: What Is the Difference?
How you decide to move forward with selling your vessel and creating a bill of sale will depend on how it is documented with Transport Canada. Many boaters have what is called a Pleasure Craft License (PCL), which, as its name implies, is for recreational vessels. Any motorized boat with an engine of 10 horsepower or more will require a PCL. To complete a transfer of ownership for such a vessel, you will need to sign over the PCL and create your own bill of sale, which should include some basic information about the buyer and seller and the agreed-upon price.

For registered vessels, the process is slightly more involved. Any boats used for commercial purposes or financed with a marine mortgage will need to enter the Small Vessel Registry. This is also true of boats traveling abroad under the Canadian flag. When you are selling a registered vessel, you will have to complete a formal document with Transport Canada called a “Form 6 - Bill of Sale.”
Completing a Form 6 - Transport Canada Bill of Sale
To complete a Form 6 - Bill of Sale, you will need to have some basic information available. For instance, you will want to include the names of the buyer and seller. You will also need to provide your boat’s port of registry, vessel name, and official number. Once completed, this document should be submitted to Transport Canada as soon as possible for processing.

How do I obtain a boat registration in Canada? First, you must know that you must register your vessel with the government to operate it according to the law. As a result, many individuals are unaware that they do not necessarily need to own a boat to register it. Even if you don't own the boat, you can still register it in Canada using this approach. For the majority of Canadians, summertime means being on the water. Whether fishing, boating, or swimming, there's nothing quite like being by the water on a hot day. Even better, if you happen to be a boat owner! If your boat is not registered in Canada, you will not be able to take it out for a spin. Even if you don't own a boat, you may still register it in Canada by following these steps:
Know the Types of Boats That Require Registration
When it comes to buying a boat, there is a ton of new information that you need to take into consideration, and you should not ignore any of it. You will need to educate yourself on the many kinds of boats, the kinds of boats that are permitted in your region, how to register the boats, and a whole host of other things. One thing that may not be immediately evident is that even if you do not really own the vessel but are only borrowing it from someone else, you may still be obliged to acquire a boat registration in Canada. 

This is something that may not be immediately obvious. In Canada, a boating license is required for anybody who owns a vessel longer than 6.1 meters. A wide variety of watercraft are required to be registered in Canada, ranging from houseboats and yachts to powerboats, sailboats, and canoes; furthermore, each category of watercraft is subject to its own set of guidelines pertaining to safety and upkeep.
Find the Right Authority for Boat Registration in Canada
Your boat registration in Canada may need to be transferred from one state or province to another if you relocate. Provincial governments in Canada are your best hope for doing this. Depending on where you live, you may be able to get help from a local government office that handles boat registrations. As an excellent starting point, the Canadian Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators has an up-to-date contact list of all the Canadian provinces and territories. Provincial governments in Canada are in charge of vessel registration. Before transporting your boat over regional boundaries, ensure it is registered in the new area. The process of registering a yacht may be started after you've moved. Still, since most provincial organizations have precise criteria for what papers they need, getting started as soon as possible is preferable to avoid rushing.
Determine the Length and Weight of Your Boat
You must first determine whether or not your vessel falls within the definition of "small craft" to apply for boat registration in Canada. This section explains how to measure your boat and what to do if you don't possess one but are still looking for one. While the length and weight of a vessel are measured in feet from bow to stern, the total weight of the vessel is calculated by combining all of the vessel's components and deducting the weight of any water it may hold. A shipping business may weigh the boat for you if you're unsure, or you can obtain an estimate from someone who's been on a boat before and knows what they're talking about. These charts from Transport Canada's website might help you figure out which category your vehicle fits into.


Gather the Required Documents
Collecting the necessary documentation, including Making sure you possess all of the required documentation, is the first stage in the boat registration process in Canada. Before you can register the boat in your name, you will need a bill of sale, evidence that you are insured, and, if there are any liens on the boat (debts or unpaid loans), you will need to have them removed. Check to see if the title is held in the name of the person selling it to you. If a corporation or partnership bought the boat and the title was issued in their name, you may be able to have it transferred into your name without having to change the title. However, before going any further, you should make sure that you find out what steps are required to have the boat transferred into your name without having to change the title.

Have you misplaced your Canada boating license? Or maybe it was destroyed or stolen. There is no cause for alarm! Replacing your license will not be difficult if you follow these straightforward instructions. Bear in mind that the procedure might differ depending on where you live; therefore, check with the authorities in your area for more information on the subject.

On the other hand, the process as a whole is relatively uncomplicated and shouldn't take too much time. Therefore, start immediately, and you won't have to wait long before you can get back on the water. It may appear daunting, but if you have the correct information, replacing your Canada boating license can be a breeze. In order to make the process run as smoothly as possible, here are some helpful hints.
Make Sure You Have All of The Required Documents Before You Start
Before you begin, check that you have all of the necessary documentation in your possession. One of the essential things to do is to ensure that you are prepared with your original evidence of ownership (in the case of a boat) or identity (in the case of personal watercraft), as well as proof that you have completed the required boater education course. You will need them when you go to acquire a replacement for your driver's license. If you are having difficulties locating them, you should contact the person who initially provided them. The date shown on your certificate might be incorrect; thus, if necessary, they may be able to issue a new certificate with the correct information printed on it. Your notice of suspension or cancellation will include a list of any extra papers you need to bring to the hearing.
Gather Information on How to Replace Your Canada Boating License from The Ministry of Transportation's Website
When you lose your Canadian boating license, it can be an annoyance, but it's familiar enough that there are many ways to get around the problem. Contacting the Ministry of Transportation will allow you to verify what you are required to do. If you've misplaced, stolen, or damaged your driver's license, you may find instructions on how to get a new one on their website. If lost or damaged, you could get a replacement by paying a service fee; however, if it was stolen or destroyed, you will be required to purchase an entirely new item. In either scenario, you will be required to take additional steps to demonstrate that you are who you say you are and pay any fees that may be appropriate. Checking the MTO website to see what steps need to be taken is the most effective course of action to take.
Pay Careful Attention to All Eligibility Requirements
You won't be able to start replacing a Canada boating license until you've satisfied all of the licensing requirements, so make sure you have a complete understanding of those requirements before you start your application. Completing a boating safety course or proof of prior possession of an Ontario boating license are two of the most general prerequisites. In Section 35 of Ontario's recreational marine legislation, you can discover the whole list of qualifications needed to qualify for a boating license in the province of Ontario. If your license was lost or stolen, or if you are asking for a duplicate license due to a name change or for any other reason, additional distinct standards must be met in each of these scenarios. Before you begin filling out any papers, you should make it a point to go over the application criteria relevant to your province thoroughly.
Follow the Application Instructions Closely
You will need to submit the necessary papers to replace your boating license if you wish to use it. The procedure might be somewhat altered based on the specifics of the situation. If you have misplaced your Canada boating license or were never issued one in the first place, all you need to do is complete the necessary paperwork, make the required payments, and submit it to the correct location. Your replacement card should come within three weeks, but there is a chance that it may take longer if there is a backlog before or after a holiday or if there is a lengthy period of severe weather. If you lose or have your license stolen, you may apply for a new one online without paying any expenses. Even if it's been a while since your original certificate was taken and you already have another one, if you have an online account with Service Ontario, you'll be able to login and replace it. This is true even if you already have another one.


Allow Enough Time for Processing
Updating your boating license may make you anxious, but that doesn't have to be the case. The employees at the Ministry of Transport are standing by to guide you through the steps necessary to get your new license in the shortest amount of time feasible. Please allow the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario anywhere from six to eight weeks to process your request if you already possess an Ontario boating license but need to replace it. While waiting for your replacement card, you will be issued a temporary license on paper. Paper licenses that are merely temporary are only good until the expiration date printed on the card.

If you own a boat and like spending time on the water in Canada, you may have considered renaming your vessel at some point. In some cases, you may want to rename a boat because you've just added to your family and want to involve them in your boating adventures; in others, you may wish to change your boat's name because you've grown out of it. Regardless of your motivation, you must understand the legal steps required to rename a yacht in Canada. Because changing the name of a vessel may have repercussions from a legal standpoint, you should get the advice of an attorney specializing in maritime law before taking any action. Having stated that the following are some considerations that should be kept in mind:
Check to See if the New Name Is Already Taken
Otherwise, the Registrar of Boats will mark it as a duplicate, and you will not be permitted to use it. You may still be allowed to use the name even if it isn't. You'll be required to submit a request form and the appropriate charge (check out the fee schedule for details). Your request may be rejected if there is already a yacht registered in Canada with the same or similar name. In addition to making sure the name you choose isn't already used, keep in mind that planning to rename a boat requires three years of registration under the present name. Only if the boat is being sold or transferred from one person or company to another may you alter the name at any time. The information you provide on your request form must be entirely correct.
Make Sure the Name Isn't Profane or Obscene Before You Rename a Boat
One of the most dangerous things you can do to your boat is to give it an obscene or sexist name. Boats of any size don't usually need permits, but you should check with local authorities to ensure your watercraft doesn't contravene any local rules. As a result, the Vessel Registry in British Columbia has access to a copy of every vessel's registration certificate, which means they may notify you whether your boat has an unsavory moniker like Sex Toy. After being told that a boat's name is improper, the province may request that the registration certificate be relinquished or amended, as well as any related paperwork such as bills of sale. Once a boat is sold or transferred, the name on the title frequently has to match the name on the owner's insurance policy—not only will this minimize misunderstanding down the road if anything occurs, but altering an existing boat's name indeed entails expenses.
Pick a Name That Is Easy To Remember and Spell
No rule says you can't give your boat any name you want, and no law prevents you from doing so. However, keep a few things in mind before deciding what to rename a boat. Because the name is one of the first things people will see when they come across your boat, you should make sure it is something that will stand out, and that won't leave people scratching their heads when they try to think of how to say it. On the boat name form, you don't have a lot of room to work with, so if you have a lengthy and complicated name, try to shorten it to ten characters or fewer. If you ever get into an argument with someone about who should be using your slip, having a long name probably won't help your case, even though it might seem like a good idea at the time.
Make Sure the Name Doesn't Conflict with Another Registered Vessel.
You have to check to see that the name you choose for the boat does not duplicate one already in use. The official guidelines from Transport Canada state that two boats can't have the same name if they're more than 200 meters apart. To put it another way, it may be legal for two "Sailing Vessels" to exist within 200 meters of each other, but Sailing Vessels would not be allowed to share space on their respective governing documents. Nobody wants to have their ship refused entry into a port or have their progress across international boundaries slowed down because someone else has already staked a claim to the name. If you have made it thus far without coming across any names that are already in use, however, you may be on your way to being able to change the name of your yacht.


Get Written Consent from All Parties Involved
Requesting authorization from the present owner of the yacht is the next step. It's a good idea to check with the seller to see if they're prepared to hand over ownership of the boat so that you may rename it after someone else. Because boats are considered personal property by the CRA, any transaction involving them would necessitate payment of applicable taxes if approval is not obtained in writing from the owner. You may be surprised to find the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) waiting for you at your door if you acquired a boat and wanted to rename it without gaining formal approval and then went on an extended vacation. They remember the boat's original name and can determine if it's no longer listed under your name! As a result, this must be completed first.

If you are about to start a boat transaction it is a prudent idea to gather as much information as possible before finalizing the deal, so any decision you choose to make is well thought out. If you are not about to buy or sell a used boat, well it is never too late to get to know important details of the process. Anyhow, this article will help you understand how to transfer a boat license, and some other details you might find of interest. Read on if you want to find out!
Differences Between a Pleasure Craft Operator Card and a Pleasure Craft License
To begin with, let us begin by clarifying something: a Pleasure Craft Operator Card and a Pleasure Craft License are two completely different things. The first one works like your very own “driving” license. It is the government-issued card you need to operate a vessel by yourself. Any power-driven vessel operator needs one. 

A pleasure card license, on the other hand, is a unique identification number that must be displayed on your recreational vessel. As such, you can transfer a boat license into your name when purchasing a used boat. When submitting the form, you will need to include proof of ownership of the vessel (like a bill of sale), a signed photocopy of the government-issued id, a full side view photo of the vessel as well as the application.
What to Do When You Don’t Have a Bill of Sale
On some occasions, you may not have the requested paperwork to show that the vessel is yours. If that is the case, you can be required by law to take a declaration sworn under oath, stating the reasons that don’t let you produce proof of ownership or a bill of sale. Samples are written along the internet that can be used as an example.

If you, on the other hand, are the person that is selling the craft to another individual, the process will have some differences. It is recommended that you keep a copy of the bill of sale, to prevent you from having any headaches in the future. Let's say, for instance, that the odometer of the boat is not working. If you state this on the bill of sale, and you told the buyer as well, he won’t say in the future that he didn’t know about this malfunction. Once the buyer has gotten his bill of sale, he needs to follow the instructions listed previously to have the boat license transferred.


The National Vessel Registry Center can Help you Out
It can happen that perhaps you don’t have the chance of finishing the documentation by yourself. It can happen to anybody. Luckily for you, that is when the National Vessel Registry Center comes into place. We are a third-party agency that handles any type of boat documentation, including how to transfer a boat license. You can find that form at the “license forms” tab at the top of our website, and then select “transfer a Pleasure Craft License”.

Our portal is SSL-encrypted, so rest assured that your details are going to stay safe. Furthermore, you can complete the form from the comfort of your own house, instead of having to go to the post office to send the documentation you had to download and complete manually from Transport Canada. In addition to that, it is always a good idea to have someone overlooking your documentation before submitting it. A mistake can mean delays in the processes and, even worse, costly fines. Contact us today at any of the means from our website and help us to help you!

Most seafaring individuals will tell you to be wary of changing the name of a boat. It is an old superstition that dates back to Greek mythology, as it is said that Poseidon–the God of the Sea–must maintain an accurate ledger of all boats on the water. Since changing the name of a vessel would disrupt the completeness of Poseidon’s records, this act is said to bring bad luck. Of course, this is not exactly backed by scientific data, and the simple reality is that sometimes events happen in life that warrants learning how to rename a boat legally. Maybe the name on your boat no longer holds much meaning to you, or perhaps you bought a previously owned vessel whose name is not aligned with your interests. Regardless, there is a process that must be followed when changing a registered boat’s name.

If you have experience as a boat owner in Canada, you have undoubtedly worked with Transport Canada in the past. The nation’s primary transportation agency, Transport Canada is tasked with issuing Pleasure Craft Licenses (PCLs) and maintaining the Small Vessel Registry. Much like Poseidon, Transport Canada prefers to keep accurate records, so you will need to officially inform them of any name changes to your registered vessel.
How to Rename a Boat Legally: Doing the Paperwork
If you own a vessel that is registered with Transport Canada, you will need to complete some paperwork in order to finalize the name change of your boat. Specifically, you will need to fill out what is called a “Form 13 - Application for Change of Name of Vessel and/or Transfer of Port of Registry”. This document will prompt you for some information about yourself, the previous official name of your vessel, and the desired new name. It is important to remember that registered vessels must have completely unique names, so you will want to check the Small Vessel Registry to see if your preferred name is available. 

You can also use this form to transfer your official port of registry. Maybe you have recently moved or relocated and need to keep your boat in a new location. By using this form, you can keep Transport Canada current on the status of your vessel. 


Making a Celebration Out of the Event
Even if you are not the superstitious type, it couldn't hurt to do what you can to appease the gods. Many boat owners opt to hold renaming ceremonies to celebrate their vessel’s new moniker. What you will need for this occasion is a number of friends and loved ones and plenty of champagne. By christening your boat in a traditional manner, you can take to the waves without the specter of bad luck. 

Whether you need a Form 13, or an initial registration document, we can help. We use easy-to-fill online forms that allow you to file your Transport Canada documentation electronically. If you would like to learn more, contact one of our customer service representatives, or visit our FAQ page.

Are you in the market to purchase your very own vessel? Whether it is a small fishing boat, or a large-scale yacht, you are about to embark on an exciting new endeavor. When you own your own boat, you have the freedom and liberty to untie from the dock whenever you would like, allowing you to cruise Canadian waters with your family and friends. One particular hurdle to boat ownership, however, can be the costs involved. Dock fees, maintenance, and the cost of a boat itself can be prohibitive for many. Because of this, there is a thriving secondary market for boats, and a shrewd buyer can locate a great deal on a used vessel. Should you find yourself in such a position, you may be curious about how you can transfer a Pleasure Craft License (PCL).

After months of perusing paper and digital listings, you found the boat of your dreams. You were able to negotiate a fair price with the seller, and they are ready to hand over the keys. At this phase of your transaction, there will be some paperwork to complete. If the vessel in question has a Pleasure Craft License issued by Transport Canada, you will need to complete the process of transferring it into your possession. The good news is that a private service such as ours at the National Vessel Registry Center can help.
What Is a Pleasure Craft License?
At this juncture, you may find yourself wondering about whether or not your desired boat even requires a Pleasure Craft License. The simple answer is that if it has a motor, it most likely does. More officially, any motorized vessel with an output of 8.5 kW (10 horsepower) or more will require a PCL–this also extends to personal watercraft such as sea-doos. You can obtain your PCL from Transport Canada by submitting an application. Once issued, you will receive a registration number that should be prominently displayed on both sides of your boat’s bow. A PCL is valid for a period of 10 years, at which point it will need to be renewed.


Completing a Transfer of Pleasure Craft License
Once the transaction of your boat purchase has been completed, you will need to formally transfer the vessel’s PCL. To do this, the previous owner will need to sign over the license by filling out the necessary fields on the backside of the document. Additionally, you will need to assemble a bill of sale (to serve as proof of ownership), and copies of valid government identification for both the buyer and seller. Once you have packaged all of these items, you can submit them to Transport Canada via mail for processing.

Of course, there is also a simpler way. At the National Vessel Registry Center, we make it easy to transfer your PCL online. By using our simple web form, you can sign over a PCL and upload your supplemental items with our SSL-encrypted web portal. To learn more, take a moment to visit our helpful Frequently Asked Questions page.

If you have been wondering what it takes to create a bill of sale you can find instructions here. A bill of sale is a document that is used in the transfers of sale from a boat owner to its new buyer. It is an important document that serves the purpose of providing proof of the buyer's ownership. If the vessel in question is registered under the Canadian register of vessels or the Small Vessel Registry (Commercial) you may simply use the Form 6 Bill of Sale and fill in the applicable fields on this form. However, if your vessel is licenced under the Pleasure Craft Licence system you will have to create a Bill of Sale or find a template that contains all applicable information. Creating a proficient bill of sale involves answering a few questions like: what is the price of your boat? What model of the boat are you selling? Who is the person that is buying the boat? Who is the person that is selling the boat? You'll be providing a bill of sale to a licensing agency or to or the Canadian Coast Guard but it depends on which agency you boat is registered with.

 

One of the better ways to start when writing your bill of sale is with a template. You don't want to find that you have wasted time trying to type it all up on your own and see it riddled with mistakes. An alternative to this is looking online. The internet can provide examples of a bill of sale template which some are free for download. One requirement you should look for when searching for an appropriate bill of sale template is that it is compatible with your licensing agency of the Canadian Coast Guard. When filling out a Bill of Sale template you want to start with the basic relevant information. This includes the buyer's name and address, your name and address as the seller, the vessels information and both parties signatures. It should also include the most important information, the current date! During your time filling your bill of sale you want to include any identifiers of the boat like its type or model. You should also add the year, paint color, defining features and serial number. You can include any aftermarket features that did not come with your boat's original purchase as well such as new seats, a boat trailer, fishing equipment, and other things if they pertain to your sail.



The next step is to list complete registration information in the heading. You can find your registration information by taking a look at your title documents. When writing the price you are selling more make sure it is written clearly. It should have the total cost of the boat as well as any extra features that you have included (seats, fishing equipment, trailers). Keep in mind it's not a good idea to add all these numbers together as a today. Instead, clearly delineate what prices go with which items. You should have a breakdown that includes all the items separate from the boat you are selling. This can help by eliminating any confusion between yourself and the buyer and legally states things clearly.

 

The last steps you take can detail any optional "as-is" clauses. This can help to lay out any details about express warranties at the point of sale of your vessel. It can also state the condition you as selling in as "as-is" condition.  This is also a chance to include and guarantee information at the point of sale. It's an opportunity for you to state any modifications that the seller makes to the vessel as not your responsibility post-sale. When you have all of that information filled you want to leave space at the bottom of your document for signatures and any official notarization stamping.

One of the most common concerns for those dealing with vessel ownership is how to transfer boat ownership in Ontario. Even though the bureaucratic process itself can be quite complicated, we are here to make it a lot simpler for you. 
When to Transfer Boat Ownership?
Sure, the concept of transferring boat ownership is pretty straightforward, but the process isn’t exclusive to instances in which the ownership is transferred from one entity to another. The process is actually more versatile than that and you might need to take part in it even if you aren’t selling your vehicle to someone else. Let’s go over some of the instances in which you will need to make use of this form and over how to transfer boat ownership in Ontario.

Buying a Vessel
Whenever you buy a new vessel, it’s up to you to register it under your name with the Canadian Register of Vessels. But, if you are purchasing a vessel from a previous owner rather than, say, a dealership or a store, the sale itself is not enough for the boat to be legally yours. There needs to be a transfer of the boat’s ownership in order to properly register you as the official owner of the vessel in question. This is not to say, however, that this process is up to you. Instead, it has to be the prior owner who fills out this form and carries out this transfer process. 
Selling a Vessel
Now, this applies when it is you who are selling your vessel as well. This time, it will be up to you to transfer ownership of the boat to the buyer or new owner. Part of the selling process will involve you submitting the necessary paperwork to back up the sale in terms of legal ownership and registration.
Adding or Removing an Owner
You should also know that the process to transfer ownership won’t just include those instances where you are selling the vessel to someone else. You will also need to make use of this form when you are adding an owner (such as a partner or spouse) to your boat ownership or, in turn, removing one from it. You have to be aware, however, that in order for someone to be eligible for ownership of the vessel, even if it is shared, they have to be a Canadian citizen, a Canadian resident, or a corporation incorporated under the laws of Canada.

Are you looking to transfer ownership of your pleasure craft in BC? We understand that this process can be confusing, which is why we are here to provide comprehensive guidance and make it easier for you. With our online pleasure craft registration form, you will have no trouble transferring ownership of your vessel in a safe and efficient manner. Read on for an overview of what's involved in transferring ownership of a pleasure craft in British Columbia!
How to Submit Your Pleasure Craft Registration Application Online
Submitting your pleasure craft registration application online is a simple and convenient way to ensure that your vessel is legally registered and eligible to be used on the water. The process is easy to follow and can be completed in just a few steps. By logging onto the registration platform, you can complete the application form, pay the necessary fees, and upload any required documentation. With online submission, you'll receive immediate confirmation that your application has been received, and you'll be able to track the progress of your registration. It's an efficient way to ensure your vessel is registered and that you comply with all legal requirements.
Step-by-step Guide on How to Complete the Pleasure Craft Registration Form
Registering your pleasure craft is an important step for any boater. However, filling out the registration form can be overwhelming, especially if you're doing it for the first time. Luckily, we've created a step-by-step guide to help you through the process. The first step is to gather all the necessary information, such as your boat's make, model, and hull identification number. Once you have all the information, you'll need to download the registration form from Transport Canada's website. Then, you can fill out the form section by section, making sure to answer all the questions accurately. Finally, you'll need to submit the form and the registration fee to Transport Canada. With our guide, completing the pleasure craft registration form is a breeze, and you'll have peace of mind knowing you're following all the necessary steps to keep your boat legally registered.
Tips for Maintaining Proper Documentation and Record Keeping for Pleasure Crafts
Proper documentation and record keeping can make all the difference when it comes to owning and operating a pleasure craft. There are few things more frustrating than being caught off guard with an expired registration, or worse, getting penalized for lacking proper documentation. To avoid these headaches, it's important to establish a system for keeping track of important paperwork and updating it regularly. This could mean creating a folder dedicated to maintenance receipts, registration paperwork, and insurance documents, or utilizing a digital system like an app or spreadsheet. By keeping up with your documentation, you'll not only stay organized but also ensure a smoother and safer experience on the water.

Potential Issues That May Arise During the Transfer of Ownership Process and How to Resolve Them
The transfer of ownership process can be a tricky business, fraught with the potential for complications and issues. However, with careful planning and preparation, many of these problems can be avoided or resolved before they become too much of a headache. Some of the potential issues that may arise include disagreements about asset valuations, conflicts over the terms of the sale, and disputes over who should be responsible for certain liabilities or obligations. To address these concerns, it is important to have clear communication with all parties involved, to document everything thoroughly, and to anticipate potential problems ahead of time so that you can be prepared to deal with them effectively. With a little bit of foresight and planning, you can minimize the risk of complications and ensure a smooth transfer of ownership process.

Transferring ownership of a pleasure craft can be daunting. However, with our easy-to-use application, you can make the process go as smoothly and quickly as possible. By using our pleasure craft registration form, you can submit your application and supplemental materials online, eliminating the need to visit an office or mail forms in the mail. We planned for all potential customer needs by facilitating different payment levels and offering on-page support for any questions that may arise along the way.  With us, you can transfer a pleasure craft in mere minutes from the comfort of your home. Ready to get started? Fill out our form online and take the hassle out of transferring any pleasure craft.

If you have a passion for boating, there are not many better places on Earth to explore than the waters of Canada. This beautiful, northern nation is home to hundreds of thousands of pristine lakes, as well as many winding rivers and thousands of miles of ocean coastline on both the Atlantic and Pacific. While Canada’s many waterways make it an ideal location for recreational enthusiasts, some also use their boats to earn their livelihood. If you are planning to engage in commercial activities with your new vessel, you will want to learn a bit about how to enter it into the Transport Canada boat registry. 

As the nation’s main agency for all matters of transportation on both land and sea, Transport Canada is tasked with a wide area of important duties. One way in which they aim to protect our waters for future generations of boaters to enjoy is by documenting who and what is on our lakes and rivers. Transport Canada accomplishes this by issuing pleasure craft operator cards (PCOCs), pleasure craft licenses (PCLs), and vessel registrations. In your time as a boat owner, you can expect to navigate Transport Canada paperwork on occasion.

While buying your own boat is an exciting occasion, it is also typically the culmination of months, perhaps years of research and saving the necessary funds. Just as there are many types of fish in the sea, there are nearly endless possibilities for the types of boats you can purchase. From humble canoes to mega-yachts, there are boats for all budgets and needs. Ultimately the vessel that is right for you will largely come down to what your plan on using it for, as well as how much you are comfortable spending. Once you have determined the make and model that suits you, you can then begin perusing print and online listings for boats that are for sale in your area. After finding the right boat for you, you can then negotiate a fair price with the seller and finalize your transaction. With the keys in your hand and your boat hitched up to your truck, you will undoubtedly be antsy to get your vessel in the water. Before you get ready to launch, though, you will want to look into whether or not your vessel belongs in the Transport Canada boat registry. 
What Vessels Belong in the Transport Canada Boat Registry?
When you start thinking about what type of Transport Canada vessel documentation your boat will need, it is important to assess what exactly your boat will be used for. The reason for this is that only certain types of boats must enter the Transport Canada boat registry, though it is available to all (and, as you will read, there are benefits to registering a vessel). In Canada, any boat that is used for commercial purposes, be it sightseeing charters, commercial fishing, or any other act of commerce, must be placed in the national vessel registry. This is also a requirement for any boat that is planning to travel on international waters under the Canadian flag, or any vessel that has been financed via a marine mortgage.

When you obtain vessel registration, your boat is assigned a completely unique name of your choosing. This can allow you to really put a personalized touch on your boat, not to mention, you can more easily stand out from your peers down at the marina. A registered vessel also has the luxury of being able to fly the Canadian flag while travelling to foreign ports, and your documentation can allow you to pass through customs.

If your boat requires vessel registration, or you are simply interested in the benefits it can offer, there is a process that you will need to complete. First, you will need to sit down and fill out some paperwork. To register a vessel, you will need to complete Form 1 - Application for Vessel Registration, along with Form 3 - Statement of Qualification for Vessel Registration. You will also need to prepare four photographs of your vessel (one of each side), as well as obtain a tonnage measurement. You can then package these items together and submit them to Transport Canada’s office in Ottawa for processing. 

How to Process Your Documents Online
Whether you need a pleasure craft license or a vessel registration, there are a couple of avenues you can explore for obtaining these documents from Transport Canada. You can always visit the government agency’s website, locate the correct PDF documents, download them, print them out, fill them in by hand, and mail them in for processing. Of course, you can also save a considerable amount of time by working with a private service such as ours at the National Vessel Registry Center. We have online forms that you can use to process all of your Transport Canada documentation online.

Are you curious about the ownership of a documented vessel? It's important for boat owners and enthusiasts to understand the laws that govern vessel registration. Whether you want to learn more about the history behind a specific ship, check out who owns what kind of boats, or simply get access to the legal information regarding certified documentation, this blog post will help you understand how anyone can request a Certified Copy of the Certificate of Documentation from the U.S. Coast Guard — so keep reading!
Understand the basics of the Canadian Vessel Registry
Do you own a boat or plan to buy one? If so, it's important to understand the basics of the Canadian Vessel Registry. This registry is essential for protecting your vessel and maintaining compliance with Canadian law. When you register your boat, you'll receive official documentation that proves your ownership and confirms your vessel's nationality. You'll also be assigned a unique identification number, which is a must-have for accessing Canadian waters. Registering your boat is a straightforward process, made easy by a variety of online resources and professional services. By taking the time to register, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your boat is officially recognized and legally compliant.
Learn how to obtain a Certified Copy of the Certificate of Documentation
Obtaining a certified copy of the Certificate of Documentation may seem like a daunting task, but it is actually a straightforward process that can be accomplished by anyone. Whether you're a boat owner looking to sell your vessel or a potential buyer seeking to verify its ownership, having a certified copy of the Certificate of Documentation is crucial. It serves as proof of ownership and registration, ensuring that a boat is legally documented and can be transferred to a new owner. By following a few simple steps and submitting the necessary paperwork, you can obtain a certified copy of the Certificate of Documentation and have peace of mind knowing that your boat is properly registered and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Research public and private resources for locating vessel owners in Canada
When it comes to locating vessel owners in Canada, there are several public and private resources available to assist you in your search. One option is to check with Transport Canada, the government agency responsible for regulating all modes of transportation in Canada, including vessels. Through their database, you can access registration and ownership information for any registered vessel in Canada. There are also private companies, such as marine surveyors and brokers, who have access to resources and tools that may help you locate vessel owners. Additionally, boating associations and clubs might have a network of members who could provide helpful leads. With a little bit of research and persistence, you can uncover the information you need to locate the owner of a vessel in Canada.

 

Transferring ownership of a registered Canadian vessel can seem like an intimidating process, but with the help of the National Vessel Registry Center Corp., it doesn't have to be. We provide all the necessary forms and documents needed for a boat title transfer that will ensure you stay in compliance with all relevant regulations. The transfer of boat ownership is a straightforward process and we are here to help guide you every step of the way. Whether you are in the process of selling your vessel or simply changing ownership, our team can help provide you with all the necessary forms for a successful transfer of ownership for a registered vessel. The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. is committed to making sure that our clients' vessels stay in good standing with all relevant regulatory bodies.

Transferring ownership of a registered Canadian vessel can seem intimidating, but the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. has made it easy with its “Transfer of Ownership” form. This form provides all the necessary documents and information that you need to stay compliant with applicable regulations when transferring title to a vessel. With the help of our team, you can be sure that transferring ownership is a simple process.

Whether you are selling your vessel or just changing ownership, we will provide all the necessary forms for a successful transfer of ownership for a registered vessel. We understand how important it is to keep vessels in good standing with all relevant regulatory bodies, and we are committed to ensuring your vessel is up-to-date.

At the National Vessel Registry Center Corp., we take pride in helping you through the boat title transfer process, so you can focus on what matters most - enjoying your vessel. Contact us today for more information about how we can make transferring ownership of a registered Canadian vessel easy and stress-free.

All-in-all, the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. offers a “Transfer of Ownership” form that provides all the necessary documents to help you stay in compliance with applicable regulations when transferring title to a vessel. Our team is committed to making sure your vessel stays in good standing with all relevant regulatory bodies and we provide all the necessary forms for a successful transfer of ownership. Contact us today to learn more about how we can make transferring ownership easy!

It’s vital for all boat owners in Canada to have their relevant documentation in order, and the National Vessel Registry Center can be there to help you get your boat registration numbers in Canada. Here, you can learn more about this process.




A Guide to Boat Registration Numbers in Canada




Boat registration numbers, as you might be aware, are the identifying numbers that are granted to a particular vessel once they get their Transport Canada documentation in order. Going forward, this registration number will represent you and your vessel in all matters of maritime transportation, as well as any bureaucracy, financial holdings, and similar aspects that involve your boat. Because of this, it’s incredibly important to get your documentation in order before you operate your vessel at all. Here, you will find a comprehensive guide to boat registration numbers in Canada so that you can go through this process easily and get your numbers figured out as soon as possible.




Getting Your Registration Number




In order to get your boat registration number in order, you will need to apply for your boat registration with Transport Canada, which is a fairly straightforward process. All you need to do is head over to the registration tab here on our website and fill out the form you find there. This will mostly just involve information about the boat and yourself as the owner, all of which will end up registered in your documentation. Paperwork such as this can sometimes be intimidating or inconvenient, but our team is here to make it all much easier for you. If at any point in the process you have any doubts, don’t hesitate to reach out to us with your questions.




Consulting a Registration Number




If you follow the steps outlined above, it will only be a matter of days before you receive the corresponding documentation with the boat registration number in order. However, if you don’t need to get a number but to consult one, we can also help you with that. If you need to look up boat registration numbers in Canada, all you need to do is put in the number on the Transport Canada database lookup tool. This will deliver some pretty basic present-day information about the registered vessel. However, if you need more thorough information about the vessel, including about previous ownerships and potential financial holds, you will need to request a transcript. You can easily do this through our platform.




National Vessel Registry Center




Boat documentation, like any other kind of bureaucratic paperwork, can be very inconvenient and tedious to deal with. However, that doesn’t have to be the case, at least not when you can count on the National Vessel Registry Center. Our platform is here for you to easily and smoothly submit your forms, pay the application fee, and receive your documentation as soon as possible. You can find all the relevant forms here on our website and, should you need any help at some point, you can always contact us through the number and email address found above to receive the corresponding assistance.

You might already know this, but all the information registered with Transport Canada goes to their registry, which is the comprehensive database that holds all data related to a particular vessel. Not only does this help them keep track of all the vessels using Canadian waters and access contact information in case an owner needs to be reached, but it also provides vessel owners with reliable transcripts of relevant data. Let’s take a closer look at what the boat history check system can do for you.




Making Use the Boat History Check




The boat history check system is the official mechanism provided by Transport Canada that allows users to consult their comprehensive database of vessel information. What will this help with? This allows a government agency to keep track of the vessels navigating national waters. By doing so, this will also allow citizens and boat owners to keep track of the documentation corresponding to their boat across different ownerships and registration periods. Whether you are looking to register your own vessel or to consult the database, we can easily guide you through the process. Let’s go over some of the different ways in which you can interact, consult, or request information from the vessel registration check.




Requesting History Checks for Vessels




So, if you need some brief information about a vessel that has been registered with Transport Canada, the quickest way to access it will be through the query system. The vessel registration query system is available on the Transport Canada website. You will need to provide the official number under which the vessel is registered so that you’re able to get straightforward data about it. Don’t expect this to be very comprehensive, though, because it won’t be. However, if what you’re looking for is more specific information that includes different ownerships, you’ll have to request a document from Transport Canada. This is called a transcript.




Receiving a Documentation Transcript




Now, if you ever need to cross check information, consult previous ownership documents, or provide proof of the vessel’s financial standing, you can always submit a request for a transcript. This will be a comprehensive history of the documentation associated with the vessel in question, be it related to its different ownerships, its finances, or its history. In order to request this document, you can simply submit the corresponding transcript form here on our website. In only a few weeks, you will be receiving a comprehensive history of this particular boat. Transcripts can be a great way to gain insight into a vessel’s history, all the registered information.




Submit Forms to Transport Canada




Boat documentation, like any other kind of bureaucratic paperwork, can be very inconvenient and tedious to deal with. However, that doesn’t have to be the case, at least not when you can count on the National Vessel Registry Center. Our platform is here for you to easily and smoothly submit your forms, pay the application fee, and receive your documentation as soon as possible. You can find all the relevant forms here on our website and, should you need any help at some point, you can always contact us through the number and email address found above to receive the corresponding assistance.

Are you in the process of selling your vessel and want to know how to transfer boat registration? Does it feel like the vessel transferring process is more challenging than it should be? We felt the same way. Indeed, that’s one of the main reasons that we started the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. in the first place. As vessel owners ourselves, we felt that it was more difficult than it should be to register a vessel, to transfer it, and much more. So, we made a simpler, expedited process for vessel owners from all walks of life. 
How to Transfer Boat Registration 
Before you transfer the registration, specifically the Certificate of Registration, there’s something important you have to be certain about. Should there be a mortgage registered to your vessel, then you must make sure that it’s either transferred or discharged. Otherwise, you can’t transfer the registration. To be clear, this isn’t just for if you’re “transferring” the vessel’s ownership (such as selling it, giving it to someone, etc.) It’s also for if you’re changing the ownership at all (bringing on a new owner, removing one from the ownership group, and so forth). Should that be taken care of, then you can find the form you need at our site. 


How to Transfer Pleasure Craft Licensing 
Are you selling your pleasure craft? If so, you must sign the reverse side of your vessel license (the side that doesn’t have the name/your vessel on it) and then provide it to the purchaser. Then, the purchase (i. E. the person who bought your vessel from you) has 90 days to complete. This works in reverse if you’ve purchased a pleasure craft from someone else. Either way, you can find the “transfer of pleasure craft license” form at our site. 
An Easier Way to Transfer 
We know that, for many, transferring a vessels’ ownership, whether it’s registered for a pleasure craft, is something that folks would just like to get done, to take care of. That’s where we can come in. As we’ve optimized our site for mobile devices, we’ve made it so that you can fill out these forms from practically anywhere and on any device - so long as you’re connected to the internet. So, you can be with the person to who you’ve transferred your vessel and fill out these forms while you’re standing there next to them. 
More Than Just Transferring Documentation 
The above, of course, is how you can fill out this transfer documentation but it’s also how you can fill out all of the other forms at our site as well. Whether you’re looking for more information about a vessel through “historical research,” or want to get a “bareboat charter” going, or anything else that vessel documentation could potentially help with, you can find all of the forms right here at our site.

Back when you first registered your boat with Transport Canada, you were asked to give it a name. Now, this doesn’t have to mean that the boat will have to keep this name going forward. You can change it if you feel like it, you just need to go through a specific process for that. Let’s go over how to rename a boat legally in case you want to do so.

 
How to Rename a Boat Legally
There are going to be plenty of different circumstances in which you might need to change the name of a boat. Maybe you named the boat after someone that you no longer want to be reminded of, or on the other side you might end up wanting to name it in someone’s honor. You don’t really need to have a reason for the change, though. After all, you can legally change the name of your boat whenever you feel like it. It’s your boat, after all. So, the process to apply for a name change is fairly easy, but it will require some paperwork. As with any bureaucratic process, however, it can quickly get complicated if you don’t know what you’re doing, which is why here we have a quick guide on how to do so for your convenience.

 
Requirements For a Boat Name
When it comes to the requirements for a boat name, you don’t have to worry about much. You are technically free to give your boat whatever name you want. Well, that is as long as it is a unique name. Because of this, back when you first registered your boat, you had to provide a few different options for your boat’s name in case one of your choices was already taken. This is why, when you’re planning on changing your boat’s name, it’s a good idea to consult the database to make sure it’s not taken, which you can do by visiting the Transport Canada website. 

 
Applying For a Boat Name Change
So, if you have decided to change the name of your boat officially, you will have to submit the right form to Transport Canada. If you head over to our menu, you will find the form for a change of vessel name, which will evidently be the way to go. As part of this process, you will mostly just have to provide the information about the vessel and the new name you want to give it. Once you’ve filled it out, you can submit the form through our platform for us to make sure that everything is good to go before it’s submitted to Transport Canada.



 

Though certain seafaring superstitions would deem renaming your boat bad luck, sometimes it needs to be done. If you are going this route, understanding how to rename a boat legally is important. Maybe the boat you recently purchased has a name that means something to the previous owner but doesn’t hold much weight with you. Maybe you want to name your boat after someone special in your life. Regardless, there is a legal process that involves more than a paint change. 


Choosing An Available Name
No matter the circumstances that have brought you to the decision to change your boat’s name, picking a new and unique moniker isn’t just clever - it’s also required. Transport Canada requires that all registered vessels feature a unique name. You might remember that back when you first registered your boat, you had to pick a few options for names, and that is precisely why. A singular name not only gives your boat character but can also help identify it in the event that it is lost or stolen.

Fortunately, viewing available names is relatively easy. You can visit Transport Canada’s website and peruse their directory of names to make sure that your boat is truly one of a kind. Because of the work that goes into changing your boat’s name (new signage, applications, and fees), you might find it prudent to see if the name you have in mind is available before getting started in the process. 
Completing The Necessary Paperwork
Before you begin scraping the letters off of the back of your boat, you will want to complete a change of vessel name form with Transport Canada. This document is not dissimilar to other registration forms you have likely come across as a boat owner. You will need some basic information to complete this document, including the name of the owner and its port of registry. You will also need to provide the vessel’s current name and registration number. If your boat is registered to a business or corporation, you can also change its name, provided you have the authorization to do so. 

If you also need to change your boat’s port of registry, you can do so on this same form. This is an added convenience provided by Transport Canada, and let’s face it, sometimes changes in life come in bunches.
We Can Show You How To Rename A Boat Legally
If you are set on changing the name that adorns your boat or yacht, do not get bogged down in bureaucratic complexities. At the National Vessel Registry Center, we offer many helpful, streamlined forms that can greatly simplify your boat documentation needs. Our experienced service representatives can help you ensure that your application is filled out completely, and we can handle the processing so you can get back out on the water. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

When the time comes to part ways with a boat, many people ask themselves how to approach this. In some times, the vessel is beyond saving and will need to be disposed of, but there will certainly be situations in which you can actually sell the boat to someone else. So, if you’re wondering how to sell a boat in Ontario, here is the guide you’ve been looking for.
How to Sell a Boat in Ontario
In order to sell a vessel, you have to keep certain things in mind. You can’t, for example, expect to get more money than your boat is worth, nor can you simply hope that a single listing on the paper is enough to capture prospective buyers’ attention. You should keep the following process in mind in order to make sure you don’t get too ahead of yourself.


Selling the Boat
The process of selling a boat doesn’t have to be complicated, but it will definitely have its nuances here and there. After all, you are selling an object with a significant financial value and very specific maintenance needs. Because of this, it might not be so easy to sell the boat within your intended time frame, at the price you’re looking for, or with the ease you’d prefer. A good way to approach this will be by hiring someone who can assess the vessel, determine its condition, and give you a realistic price that you can hope to receive for it. Start this process ahead of time if you have time to consider because it might take a while for you to find a buyer. Once you’ve found one, though, everything should be a lot simpler going forward.
Transferring the Documentation
Once you’ve sold the boat, you will have to make the sale official, which means transferring the official documentation through Transport Canada to the new owner. Regardless of whether the boat in question is recreational or commercial, the process will be fairly similar. In order to transfer your vessel’s registration or its pleasure craft licence, you will need to submit the application for such. Both of these forms will be readily available with us here in Transport Canada for your convenience, and they will mostly involve straightforward information about the new owner. Once you have submitted the transfer form to Transport Canada, the registration or the licence will be reflecting the changes in ownership. This means that the new owner will be able to use the registration to back up their new claim over the vessel in question.

Are you buying a vessel ? Or, alternatively, are you in the process of selling your vessel and want to make sure that you’ve “crossed every T and dotted every I,” so to speak? One of the more common web searches that brings someone to our site is when they type: “how to transfer boat ownership.” It’s been said that “the best two days of vessel ownership are the day that you buy it and the day that you sell it.” At our site, we can help you with both days. 
Transferring a Registered Vessel 
Should your vessel be registered with Transport Canada, we have the form you’ll need to transfer it to a new owner (or to have it transferred to you). Specifically, we’re referring to the “Application for Transfer of Ownership for a Registered” vessel form. Again, this is just for registered vessels and not pleasure craft. Should you need to make this go through a bit faster, we offer “priority request/rush processing” services as well. That means we’ll put you on top of the queue. A word to the wise: we cannot offer refunds if the boat sale does not go through. So, only avail yourself of this form if it’s a sure thing, a formality, and so forth. 


Transferring a Pleasure Craft 
The previous paragraph is about transferring ownership of a vessel that’s been registered. Should you have a pleasure craft, you transfer ownership by signing the reverse side of your vessel license and then give it to the person you sold the pleasure craft to. Then, they have 90 days to complete and sign the reverse side of the vessel license. 
Other Ways of How to Transfer Boat Ownership 
Often, ownership isn’t necessarily transferred solely from one party to another. Indeed, a vessel owner will bring on their significant other, a new member of the ownership team, or, alternatively, remove someone from ownership. Should that be the case, you can use the same form for registered vessels at our site. One thing to keep in mind, though: Canadian citizenship. For a new member of your owner partnership to be legal, they have to be a resident of Canada, a citizen of Canada, or even a Canadian corporation. 
Beyond Transferring Ownership 
Perhaps you’ve transferred ownership to someone else, leaving you on the lookout for a new vessel. Or, alternatively, maybe you’ve just purchased a vessel from someone else, and now you want to make sure that you have all of the forms that you need to be in compliance with the powers that be. We can help. At our site, you can find all of the different forms of Canadian vessel documentation that you might need. Specifically, you can find all of the forms here for the Small Vessel Registry in addition to Pleasure Craft Licensing, vessel documentation, and more. To see everything that we offer, head to our site. 

Before closing any money deal, it’s important to know how to do things correctly. You must learn how to write a bill of sale to make the ownership transfer official and protect yourself from possible legal consequences in the future. Dealing with penalties or taxes for a vessel that is no longer yours is quite an undesirable situation. Be a responsible seller and find out what you need.

You finally decided to sell your boat to someone else. Maybe you need the money, maybe you want to change to a bigger or smaller boat, depending on your needs. But is it as simple as shaking the new owner’s hand and receiving a check or cash? The answer is no.


Information For The Bill Of Sale
A bill of sale is the most crucial document that will be needed to transfer possession of your ship. You want to make sure the sale accurately reflects the transaction and knowing how to write a bill of sale when selling your boat will help ensure that everything is correct.

When you write a bill of sale for a boat, you must be as specific as you can. Use every single detail about your vessel, so both you and the buyer are clear about the agreement before signing on the dotted line and moving any money. Make sure you include items like the boat name, the hull number, registration number, and other details (VIN, make, model, year, etc). The date of transaction, the price agreed upon the ship and any extras that may be included in the deal are crucial as well.
Make Things Easier: Use a Template
The next step is to get the paperwork done so you can sell your ship properly. If you are selling a ship for the first time, or you bought your first boat brand new from the manufacturer, it’s comprehensible you might not know how to write a bill of sale.

If this is the case, look for a template online. There are many websites out there today where you can download a template for either a small fee or for free. Fill in the template with the required information and you are ready to go. Make sure there are blocks for the signatures of both the seller and buyer and space for a notary witness to sign and put a seal on the document.

Don’t forget anything. Choose a bill of sale suited for boats and check that it’s compatible with your state’s laws.
Using The Bill Of Sale
Now that you know how to write the bill of sale, use it to record the sale in Canada. File a transfer of ownership with Transport Canada so that they are aware that you no longer own the boat. If you have any issues or trouble dealing with documentation, we can help you out.

Are you’re looking to visit these places and engaging in recreational activities? Then you must apply for an Ontario boating license to enjoy the full water experience. It’s important to know everything you need and how can you do it properly. Read further for more information.

There are many places to visit when heading out to the water in this region. One of the most popular destinations for boaters is Lake Ontario, which is one of the five Great Lakes. Lake Ontario offers thousands of boating opportunities including cruisers, houseboats, sailing, fishing, marinas, and ports of call to name a few. From wakeboarding in Muskoka to powerboating and sailing in Gananoque, and pleasure boating at the cottage to angling in Northern Ontario, the options are endless.


Procedure For The License
If you are eager on obtaining an Ontario boating license, learn all the steps you have to take before getting aboard.
Getting Started
Transport Canada requires you to study and pass the Canadian Boater Service Course. You can take it online and takes between three to five hours. The course ends with a timed safety test and does not need supervision.

If you fail, don’t worry. The test can be written as often as required, although it is strongly recommended that a course be taken if you are unsuccessful the first time. You can give it a try once every 24 hours.
Acquiring The PCOC
To operate a boat in Ontario, you have to acquire the Pleasure Craft Operation Card (also known as PCOC). The PCOC is the most common proof of competency, something that shows that a boater understands the basic rules and how to safely operate a boat to obtain an Ontario boating license. It is required by everyone who operates a power-driven boat vessel in the state.
Waiting Period
After you pass the test, you will receive a temporary boating PCOC that will allow you to get quickly on your sails. The definitive Ontario boating license documentation will have to wait a little bit longer: you will receive your permanent life-long PCOC in your mail between two to three weeks since the course approval.
Questions? Contact Us Today!
If you still have any concerns about obtaining your Ontario Boating License, feel free to contact us. Simply get in touch with us by calling +1 (800) 419-9569 or email us at info@canadianvesselregistry.ca, and we’ll be happy to help you out.

So you finally made up your mind about it and decided to buy a ship. After a while, a potential seller appears with a good-looking boat and an interesting offer. Learn how to transfer a pleasure craft license, what do you need, and how can you do it, so both you and the other part can be even after the transaction.

There may be many reasons why you would like to buy a boat. Perhaps you miss the good old days of going fishing with your family when you were a kid, or you already have a boat and you are looking for something more modernish. Maybe you just want to get the thrill out of sailing in Canadian waters and enjoy the sight. Whatever it might be, it’s wise to know the paperwork involved for the whole deal.


Required Documentation To Transfer A Pleasure Craft License
Immediately after the transaction, both parties have documentation to deal with. Transport Canada requires that you and the buyer fill out some forms to keep a record of things. So what do you exactly need to transfer the license? Below is a list of the requirements to achieve it:

Proof of ownership or a bill of sale.
A signed copy of a valid piece of government-issued identification from each owner whose name is to appear on the pleasure craft license
A current full side-view photograph of the boat is to be licensed. The picture must show good lightning conditions, the whole boat must be seen and it mustn’t be obstructed by other vessels.

Step By Step: A Guide to Process The Transfer
Once you have everything you need, it’s time to get down to business. Look for the ‘Transfer of pleasure craft license’ tab inside the ‘Licence form’ option on the upper part of the website. The form consists of two steps: the first is for the buyer, and the second is for the seller.

The first thing you have to do is to provide the pleasure craft license number. Write down your complete name as it appears on your ID. Check the authorization box and put your signature digitally on it. If you will co-own the vessel with someone else state it as well. Don’t forget to point out if the boat will be registered to an enterprise. Provide your full address: street name, number, city, ZIP code, province, and country. Information such as your birth date, phone number, and email address is important as well.

The second part is about the pleasure craft and its details. You can choose whether you want to modify the prefix on the license or not. If you do so, you have to repaint the letters on the boat’s hull. Specify its propulsion type and length. If applicable, provide the hull serial number (HIN), and the hull’s type, material, colors, make, and model. You can apply for an additional rush processing for an extra fee.

To finish, just write the full name and address of the previous owner as you did before with yours and pay the fee with your credit card. You can do it without a worry; the website is fully protected with SSL encryption.

The loss of a beloved person is always something sad, even when we grow old and we know how nature’s cycle ends. Although it can be hard to deal with, you can do a transfer of ownership so grandpa’s weekend ship where you spent many holidays can still be of use.

The last thing you will be thinking about when someone passes away is what to do with the physical things they left behind. But sooner or later, the law and the government require paperwork to be done, both for the deceased one and for his or her assets.
Getting On With The Transfer of Ownership
Once the grief starts to dissipate as you deal with the situation, you should look after the legal aspects of it. When a person dies, there is quite some documentation involved that the family has to take care of. If the deceased one owned a vessel registered with Transport Canada, then keep on reading to find what do you need to transfer it to someone else.



The process of transferring the shares from one deceased person to another is called ‘transmission’. The boat can be registered to an individual owner or could be co-owned. There are some differences between the procedures for each situation. When an individual owner dies, their shares in the vessel become part of their estate. It is settled by the estate executor. When a joint owner dies, their shares pass to the surviving registered joint owner(s). The second one is often common if the ship was bought after getting married.
Required Information To Fill The Form
To get started with the ownership exchange, head to the National Vessel Registry Center website and look for the ‘Registry Forms’ option. At the bottom options, you can find a tab that reads ‘Transmission of death/bankruptcy’.

Start by writing down the vessel’s official number. The port of registry and name of the vessel are not mandatory if the boat is registered under the Small Vessel Registry, only if it is under the Canadian Registry of the Vessel. The next step requires your personal information: full name, address, a number to contact you, an email address, and the language in which you want the certificate.

Next up comes the details of transmission. You have to specify whether the process is being required by an individual, corporation, foreign corporation, or Indian band and how must you/them be registered. Select if there is any registered mortgagee as well. Write the full name and address of the authorized representative, how the shares of the vessel have been transmitted (death, in this case), and the manner in which the property has been transmitted.

Depending on who is requiring the transfer, you have to fill in the blanks of the chosen option. Provide the contact information with an email address, telephone number, and full name. Pay the fee for the application with your credit card information and that would be it. You can additionally select rush processing if you need to, for an extra fee.

When anyone buys a boat, it is normally used for sailing or fishing. But what happens when it is for government use? Learn all about achieving registration of a government vessel so the boat is legally allowed to operate under Transport Canada’s requirements.

Every type of boat needs some kind of documentation to become operative. Learning about it eases things up for you, and for the authorities as well. Ships that operate for the government have their paperwork to deal with too. It’s important to learn how to achieve documentation to be a responsible federal employee as you are representing Canada.


Why Do I Need The Registration Of A Government Vessel?
The first thing you should know is that government ships can only apply for registration. This means that it has to be recorded by Transport Canada. Only pleasure craft can be licensed in Canada, and as you have already figured out, a government vessel is forbidden for recreational purposes. Doing so could be qualified as the wrongful use of a federal-owned fleet, which may lead to fines and prosecution.

According to Canadian law, a government vessel is any kind of ship that is owned and provides a service for, or on behalf of the Canadian government. The official institution that regulates maritime activity is Transport Canada, which grants you a registration number to operate legally after the application form receives the green light. Registration helps to track down ships when needed, especially if they belong to the Canadian government.
Filling The Right Form For Registration
The words ‘government registration’ sure sounds big and important. Getting the forms on the internet with the requirements for it can be kind of troublesome and confusing. Most of the maritime authorities' websites usually are too technical and not precisely user-friendly. However, it doesn’t have to be all that of a hassle.

At the National Vessel Registry Center, you can find the right form to register a government ship. It’s practical and also easy. The page guides you through the whole process, and all the requirements needed are featured in the same place. No need for you to navigate through the internet looking for a lot of forms.
What Information Must I Provide?
Now that you have the basics about registering a ship that belongs to the federal government, you can proceed to fill the form. To get started, click on the ‘Registry forms’ tab, and down at the bottom of the list you can find the option ‘Registration of a Government Vessel’. The form allows you to write three names for the vessel in case the first one is taken, and requires you to specify the port of registry.

The next step is to inform the particulars of the vessel. Point out the type and method of propulsions, and the particulars of propulsion as well: the number of engines, the engine description, the propulsion and engine power, and the speed knots. Specify the length of the vessel, the gross tonnage, and the type of tonnage.

Continue with the name of builder, place, and city of build, province, and country. Construction details such as type and hull (and its number) must appear too. Follow up with the descriptor of the vessel. Choose if your vessel is an ACV and state whether it has been previously registered and if it is under construction.

The second part of the form begins with the federal declaration. The information you need to provide is the one that entitles you as a government employee to register a ship belonging to it. Write down your title and address, as well as contact information. Pay for the application with your credit card to finish.

Is it your first time as the owner of a ship and you are not sure what’s next after buying a boat? Then you want to do the right thing. It’s important you learn how to register a boat in Canada if you are looking forward to getting waterborne for the upcoming year.

The maritime transportation system across the country is regulated and administrated by Transport Canada. Every vessel that operates in Canada has to be documented in its registry to comply with local laws. A responsible boat owner is one that is at ease with Canadian authorities and keeps his or her paperwork in order and up to date. Be yourself one, too.


What Is Boat Registration?
Before looking out for any form on the internet, it is wise to check if registration is what your vessel needs.  In Canada, if you wish to own a ship for your weekend journeys, recreational use, or perhaps to live in it, you can merely apply for a pleasure craft license. Now, what happens when you want to use your vessel for commercial purposes such as fishing or cargo transport?

Boats intended for non-pleasure activities in Canada require registration. It applies to all vessels powered by an engine of 7.5kw (10 horsepower) or more. There are two types of registrations: small vessels and Canadian registration of vessels. What mainly defines the documentation you require for registering a boat intended for commercial purposes is gross tonnage. If it is under 15, you must apply for a small vessel. If it is over 15, apply for Canadian registration of the vessel.
Registration Is Now Easier Than Ever
Back in the day, searching for the proper forms to get a ship registered for the first time was quite a turmoil. It was really convenient to know someone close who knew what was registration about and more than it, that the person was willing to guide you through the process. Although no one that had already bought a boat would give up on it, the ship would stay with the engine off for a while until the papers came along.

Fortunately, modern times have put an end to the exhausting and cumbersome process of achieving documentation for ships. We took note of average boat owners' complaints and demands, because, after all, you don’t get yourself a boat to spend your days filling forms. That’s the main reason why the National Vessel Registry Center was created in the first place.
Where To Find The Right Forms
Whether your ship requires small vessel registration or Canadian vessel registration, all the forms can be found on the website. For the first, look for the ‘Small Vessel Registry Forms’ tab and choose the ‘Small Vessel First Time Registration’ option. For vessels over 15 gross tons that require Canadian Registration, go to the ‘Registry Forms’ tab and click on the ‘First Time Registration’ option.

Both types of registration will require you to specify your personal information as the boat owner, as well as the specifics of the boat itself. Most of the details can be found in the information sheet provided by the manufacturer when you bought the boat.
We Are Ready To Assist You
The website has a user-friendly interface to interact with, as you can see finding anything is as easier as it gets. You can also access the portal through your mobile phone and fill the forms with just a finger. Remember: the website has SSL encryption, to protect your privacy at all times.

Questions on how to register a boat? Contact us anytime. An operator will get in touch with you as soon as possible.

Have you been looking for how to transfer a boat registration in Canada? Have you found an eligible buyer for your vessel and want to make sure that you’ve taken care of everything? The day that you sell your boat is a red-letter day indeed. However, if you haven’t completed all of the paperwork properly, you’re setting yourself up for more headaches down the road. That’s just one of the many reasons that folks use our site when they’re going to transfer their vessels. 
Transfer a Boat Registration in Canada at Our Site 
If your vessel is registered with Transport Canada, then you’ll be able to apply for the “Transfer of Ownership” form right here at our site. A few things to keep in mind: you can’t transfer a pleasure craft (with a pleasure craft license) through this method. Moreover, you need to make sure that all of the information is in order. Indeed, anyone “who provides false or misleading information commits an offense” against the law. We didn’t just write that ourselves, it comes from Section 37 of the Canada Shipping Act, 2001. So: if you have the info you need in front of you and/or memorized, you can use this form at our site. 


Transferring a Pleasure Craft License 
That said, we know that so many other vessel owners at our site use their vessels to have fun with family and friends. If you have a pleasure craft (with a pleasure craft license) you can also apply for the transfer forms you need at our site as well. In this circumstance, you’ll want to utilize our “pleasure craft license transfer form.” As with all of our other forms, you can access and complete them from literally anywhere, so long as you’re connected to the internet. 
Other Ways to Transfer 
Sometimes, transferring a vessel (and its registration) doesn't happen through a sale. When other circumstances occur, you can, again, find the forms you’ll need at our site. So, if the vessel owner passes away or declares bankruptcy,  you can use the “Transmission on Death/Bankruptcy” form at our site. Additionally, we know that not everyone has a vessel that’s large enough for “regular” registration but they still want to be able to transfer it. That’s why, at our site, you can find the form you’ll need for the successful transferring of a vessel on the “Small Vessel Registry” as well. 
Beyond Transferring 
Yes, transferring is one of the most common reasons that people use our site. Here, you can transfer just about any kind of vessel. That said, you can do so much more at our site than just transfer a vessel, too. You can also register your vessel, whether it’s for the Small Vessel Registry or otherwise. Additionally, you can find all of the forms that you could potentially need for the Pleasure Craft License, too. To see everything that we offer and how it can help you and your vessel, head to our site. 

Did you know you need a license to operate a boat in Canadian waters? This article will help you get your sailing boat transfer of license from another nation or learn how to sail for the first time. Some aspects concerning the sailing boat transfer of license are important, whether you're merely relocating your boat to a different province or giving your license to a friend or family member. This article will discuss the measures you should take and the outcomes you may anticipate. Read on to learn all you need to know about transferring your sailing boat license, whether you're an experienced sailor or just getting started. To provide you with a trouble-free experience, we've compiled some of our best advice.
Make Sure You Fully Understand the Licensing Requirements of Both Provinces
Ensure to research each province's regulations for your boat transfer of license. You will want to make a mental note of the length of time the boat will be in the water, its size, and its sort of vessel. You can't assume everything is OK just because you purchased a boat in Ontario and want to sail it to Nova Scotia; not every boat needs to be inspected or carry any particular papers or equipment. At first, all of this may seem quite daunting, but keep in mind that we are here to assist you in any way we can! Below, you'll find an overview of some of our most helpful tips; nevertheless, if you have any queries regarding anything else, don't hesitate to get in touch with us.
Gather All the Necessary Paperwork Ahead of Time
Furthermore, research the prerequisites of your prospective residence state (s). While licenses from certain states are valid in others, some have stricter criteria for eligibility. Moving to a new state means you'll need to evaluate whether or not it makes sense to apply for a new license there. Assuming you already have a boat registration and intend to keep using it, all you need is a change of address form from your former state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or whatever it's called where you reside) and an endorsement. However, if you plan on purchasing a new boat in your new state of residence or if you believe that obtaining a new set of credentials would make things simpler in the future, now is the time to investigate how to transfer your present credentials over.

Book a Representative to Complete the Boat Transfer of License On Your Behalf

Prioritize getting a representative scheduled to complete the task for you. The sheer volume and variety of forms might be overwhelming for someone who has never done this before. If your agent is inept, there is a greater chance that your application may be delayed or even refused due to incomplete or erroneous materials being submitted. There's no downside to getting some assistance with this. Finally, remember to reward your representative with a bonus when things go well. 

You want someone else to be able to sell your boat if the transfer doesn't go as planned, such as if there's an error in the paperwork or if there's a dispute over who owns what when it comes time to sign papers and take ownership of the boat. Whether you're in the market for a new boat, it's worth your time to see if they can assist you in finding one in a matter of days.


Pay All Applicable Fees Associated With the Transfer Process
First, check sure you've paid any fees that are due. You must pay the vessel documentation tax if your boat is registered. You must pay the state's property tax if your vessel is 25 feet or longer but has no paperwork. You'll have to pay a title transfer charge and an owner-recording cost when purchasing a yacht from a private seller. Get an excellent time and distance log for the ship! Maintaining one aboard at all times is a Coast Guard regulation. Without it, you won't be able to register your yacht for official purposes.

Additionally, entries have been made to the log continuously for the last 24 months. Putting a secondhand boat back into service may be prohibited if it has been sitting idle for more than two years. The last step is to check that all potential new owners have valid boating licenses. If not, they can't apply for a license to operate a boat on their own.

Transport Canada issues the Canadian Registry Certificate. All registered vessels will have this certificate. This kind of document contains all the details of the vessel, like the ownership, vessel characteristics, tonnage, construction, type, and material, among others. There are some fees involved in obtaining it. However, the registration offers significant benefits. These would include having a proof of ownership. Since it's a legal title for your vessel, you can use it to prove your ownership when you sell it later on. The certificate also allows you to have the right to fly the flag of Canada or use your boat as a form of security if you're getting a marine mortgage. All commercial vessels should have a Canadian Registry Certificate. However, for pleasure craft, registration is an option, regardless of the boat's length or tonnage, under the Canada Shipping Act of 2001. That means load requirement is no longer necessary when applying for registration.
A Canadian Registry Certificate
When you register your boat, you must pay for its fees. The good thing here is that the certificate is good as long as you own the boat. While boating, you should always carry its registration and other related documents. Make sure that you have other ownership documents on hand to avoid delays in clearing Canada customs or the US. With proper documents ready, you can avoid a fine. All forms in obtaining a Canadian registry certificate are available at our website. Applying for it using our online service can take only less than five minutes to complete the form. After that, you can submit it along with the documents. This certificate isn't applicable to a registered boat or licensed vessel with the laws of another country, like the US.  


How Much Is The Fee For Obtaining The Registry Certificate?
The fee is only $525. When using our online service to apply for this certificate, you need to send your payment first before we can start processing your application. As mentioned earlier, the certificate is available for non-pleasure vessels with an engine of 10 horsepower. If you have a commercial vessel, it should be registered with the Canadian Register of Vessels under Transport Canada. This certificate is valid up to three years. You can renew it 30 days before it expires. Although the official number indicated in the certificate will stay with the boat forever, you must report all changes you made to the vessel and your personal details. Failure to follow this requirement would lead to suspension or cancellation of the certificate.

It is a wonderful feeling when you buy your first luxury boat, yacht, or other pleasure craft. Whether you buy the vessel brand new or get one that is previously owned from a dealer, broker or previous owner does not matter you still get the thrill of having a boat of your own and taking all the wonderful trips that you want. There is a responsibility that goes along with boat ownership, and in Canada when you buy a pleasure craft you want to know what is required of you so that you can license your boat properly. You can see how to license a vessel in Canada properly, and determine if that is the route you want to go with instead of registration.
Looking at the License Process
Under regulations set forth by Transport Canada, all pleasure craft must either be licensed or registered. Your license is a document that provides you with a license number for your vessel. That number is particular to your craft and serves as an identification mark for the vessel. There is no fee for obtaining a license for your craft and if your vessel uses a motor that is less than ten horsepower, or if your vessel is registered with Transport Canada, you are not required to get a license.


The Steps of Learning How to License a Vessel in Canada Properly
The steps for how to license a vessel in Canada are fairly easy and straightforward. You can apply for a license using two methods in Canada. You can fill out the application for license and mail it, along with the supporting documentation that is required, to Transport Canada for processing. Alternatively, you can fill out the licensing application online using the electronic licensing system Transport Canada has in place and submit your application in that way. Applying online gives you an acknowledgment number that allows you to legally use your pleasure craft for up to ninety days while you await your license.
Applying for a License in Canada
If you would like to use an easy way to see how to license a vessel in Canada properly, you can undertake the process here at our website at National Vessel Registry Center Corp. We provide you with an easy, electronic method to submit your license application and have it checked by our experts to make sure there are no errors that could delay your license. We also offer registration services that you can use if you prefer to get vessel registration instead. Take advantage of the ease and expertise we offer and contact National Vessel Registry online to get more of the information you need.

How to import a vessel into Canada? The easiest way is just to hire a broker and allow him to process everything for you. However, you can do the processing yourself. When you process it by yourself, make sure to keep all documents organized. In this way, you can easily present the paperwork during a border crossing. The documents you'll need include ownership, licenses, ads, titles, and invoices. Before closing the deal, it's ideal that you check the liens of the boat. While at the border of Canada, make sure that you tell the Canada Customs the truth about how you obtained the boat. That is, let the rep know the ship's actual value and selling price.
How To Import A Vessel Into Canada
The boat ownership and bills of sale for the boat must be presented, as well as the taxes paid and the cost of the survey. Sales tax will depend on what province where you enter the country. You may need to pay federal duty if the boat isn't built in Mexico, US or Canada. It's important to remember that it's not possible to purchase a US boat that's already in Canada.  The only way for you to buy, keep and bring the vessel from the US into Canada is through importing it. Your vessel becomes a Canadian boat only after it's properly imported and licensed. You need to follow the import laws of Canada so you can operate the boat legally in the waters of the country. You just need to follow the prescribed steps so you can successfully know how to import your vessel into Canada.


Boat Registration And Licenses
The process is easy as long as you follow all the required steps. On the other hand, hiring an agent can make the entire process a lot quicker. But it's also more expensive than when you just handle it yourself. Doing it on your own will help you learn a lot of things, especially if you're planning to purchase another boat outside the country. The procedures in importing a boat into Canada become easy as long as you have established your boat ownership and deletion of a registration. Then, present the agreement of purchase and the bill of sales. Once you've imported your boat into Canada, you can now start registering the boat with Transport Canada. The easiest way to register is through our online service. We're a third-party company that processes boat documentation. When you browse our website, you'll learn that we're a one-stop-shop for all boat registration and licenses. To help you get started or to find out more information on how to import a vessel into Canada,  you may check out our online forms.

If you're recently bought a new boat, it is in your best interest to know how to change a vessel's name and port of registry. You may be advised against doing so by other sailors, who tell you it's bad luck. Whether changing your boat's name would anger the gods of the sea is up for debate, but you know for certain that the previous owner had a taste quite different from yours, so you are determined to go against the well-meaning advice of the sailor commuhttps://canadianvesselregistry.ca/change-vessel-name-andor-transfer-port-registry/nity. What are your next steps?
The Steps to Change a Vessel's Name and Port of Registry
There a few basic things to know when learning how to change a vessel's name and port of registry. Vessels can be registered almost everywhere, and their port of registry determines where taxes and registration fees will be paid for the vessel. However, that might also mean that the vessel is subject to rules and regulations that correspond to the port of registry's country, as well as the international regulations that the country is part of.



Secondly, choose a new name for your boat. To give you ideas, some of the top boat names for last year were "Island Time", "Liberty", and "No Regrets". Other contenders that didn't quite make the list: "A Little Nauti", "Yada Yachta", and "Bering In Mind".  

Once you have chosen your boat's new name, make sure you have the proper information and documentation. You will need the official number of your boat, current vessel name, and current port of registry. In addition, you will have to provide the old owner's name, address, and phone number.
How to Change a Vessel's Name and Port of Registry at our Website
After you have all of the required information, fill out the form titled "Change of Vessel Name and/or Transfer of Port of Registry", which you can find under registry forms on our website. The form will be filed with Transport Canada, but before sending it to them, we will verify all of the information and make sure it is correct, saving you time and making sure you do not make mistakes, which could further delay the process.

If you've ever lost your boat registration number, you know just how frustrating and difficult it can be to track it down. If your boat is misplaced or stolen, having the boat's name and description at hand is crucial. If you are familiar with the appropriate resources, locating this information should not be challenging. Because all Canadian vessel owners must have this document, it is essential to know where they may get it if they misplace it. The good news is that there are several different methods to find this information. This article will demonstrate how to locate a lost boat registration number in Canada and provide the resources you need to do it. Continue reading if you want to get more details!
Check Your Proof of Ownership Documents
Even while the vast majority of boat owners are aware of the location of the documentation proving their ownership of the vessel, you must verify this information before commencing the process of locating your boat registration number. The original loan agreement, the original purchase agreement, and the original bill of sale are all examples of papers that fall under this category. Frequently, these papers will contain information regarding the date and location of the boat's acquisition, in addition to the vessel identification number. They may give the boat's name (VIN) at other times. 

Whether you do not have any of these papers, you should attempt to get in touch with the dealer or lender from whom you acquired your vessel to find out if they can assist you in determining the VIN of your vessel. Even if they are unable to provide you with the information you need, they may be able to point you in the direction of the government agency or department that is most suited to answer your questions.
Look For the Number on Your Boat Itself
When you are looking for the registration number for your boat, the first place you should look is on the boat itself. The number will be printed on the left side of the boat, just above the waterline, for most recreational boats in Canada. You should seek a sticker typically between 10 and 16 inches long; it will have all of the essential information about your boat printed on it. The first three letters of this number make up what is referred to as the "Boat Registry Number," or BRN for short. This is the most important component of the number. These three letters will provide detailed instructions on getting further information about your boat over the Internet.
Search For the Boat Registration Number in Government Databases
You may check your boat's registration number in official records if you've forgotten it. Most Canadians are unaware that the federal government keeps a registry of every boat in the country, complete with the identifying information of its owner. The Canadian Coast Guard manages the database and is available online to law enforcement and border officials. Even though the boat's registration number is not displayed outside, it is simple to locate with a little online research. It is significantly simpler for law enforcement to locate illegally used boats if they have access to a searchable database of all registered boats (such as smuggling drugs or people across borders). People who have misplaced their boat's identification number may also use this method to track it down.
Ask For Help from Friends or Family Members Who Have Recently Registered a Vessel in Canada
There is also the possibility of asking people close to you, such as family members or friends if they have recently bought or sold a boat and seeing if they have the boat registration number. If they do, then it shouldn't be too difficult to determine whether or not you've located the yacht you were seeking via some online research. Several steps must be taken before a boat can be registered in Canada, regardless of whether it is brand new or used. Ensure that your vessel was constructed in accordance with the standards set forth by Transport Canada; both the make and model of the boat need to have been approved. The next step is to obtain a personalized affixing decal by contacting the Vessel Registration Office of Transport Canada.


Call The Manufacturer of Your Boat. If You Are Unable to Find the Number Anywhere Else
If you cannot locate the number in any other location, you should contact your boat's manufacturer. They will be able to give you this information and other significant particulars on your watercraft. If you purchased your brand new boat, it should have come with a paper certificate with the registration number. As long as the dealer still has the information in their records, they should be able to access it for you. Because the standards that govern how and where the boat registration number needs to be displayed might vary from state to state, you should probably check with the manufacturer (or on their website) before putting in too much effort to discover the number before you start looking for it.

If you are a Canadian vessel owner, it's important to know how to change the name of a boat. Our manual simplifies what may otherwise be a difficult task. We'll explain what you need to renew your boat's registration and how to accomplish it. Changing the boat's name requires more than merely writing the new name on the side. There is documentation and processes to complete. Those who are just getting into sailing or have lately changed the name of their vessel may find this puzzling. Learn all the steps necessary to legally rename your yacht in Canada with the help of our helpful guide. Read on to grasp all you need to know about renaming your boat in Canada, whether you've recently bought a boat and need to change its registration or you've been operating your vessel under a different name for years. Here are tips on changing a boat's name in Canada.
Review The Regulations
Because Transport Canada governs the procedure for changing a vessel's name, it is essential to check their instructions before commencing any paperwork to avoid running afoul of the rules. You are required to register your vessel with the Canadian Coast Guard regardless of whether you have just purchased your first boat or are planning to change the name of your existing vessel. You are not allowed to give your boat an offensive name, and it can't be too similar to other boats that have previously been registered with the same or a similar name. 

These are two of the legal requirements. Before moving on with the registration process, it is a good idea to verify whether or not your newly chosen boat name fits into any of these categories. Before you fill out any paperwork, make sure you've read through these requirements, and if you have any issues, you may ask your dealer or the Canadian Coast Guard directly.
Complete The Application Form to Change the Name of a Boat
The form is available online at the Transport Canada site. You'll need to fill out this form if you want to alter your boat's title and registration legally. After you have completed it, ensure to send it to the Transport Canada office closest to you. Everything else is in good hands with the locals. Don't forget to complete the form, including the new name and home port for your yacht. This is the only method to guarantee all applicable laws cover your yacht, and it might come in handy in the case of an incident or other problem, such as if the boat's owner is embroiled in a lawsuit. 

You need to get in touch with the Registrar of Vessels after purchasing a boat to ensure they have all the necessary information to identify it correctly. The registry requires the following details about the boat: the manufacturer and model number; the current and previous names; the official number; proof of ownership; whether the boat is new or used; whether any major repairs or alterations have been made; and any other information that pertains to the vessel.
Pay The Required Fees
Changing the name of a vessel will incur a cost, the amount of which will change based on the size and classification of the vessel. When you submit your application, you must pay this charge. In addition, you are liable for ensuring that the vessel registration is current with the relevant authorities in your state or territory. To change the name of a boat in Canada, you will need to notify all of the organizations who need notification of the name change. This includes everyone with a lien on the vessel and anyone else with interest in it, such as those with a mortgage or insurance.
Submit Supporting Documentation
The second thing you need to know is that you will be required to provide supporting paperwork in addition to your application. This might be as simple as taking a picture of the boat's registration number next to a well-known structure in the neighborhood (such as a sign or other significant feature). It would be helpful if you could also supply a list of lakeshore companies in the vicinity of where you reside that are prepared to verify that they are familiar with the name and can identify the person to whom it belongs. 

You may be required to submit your supporting documents for each vessel individually if you are the owner and operator of numerous boats registered in the same year under the same name. You will need to provide specific papers as evidence of your identity and ownership and submit the application form you have already filled out. There is just one administrative charge that must be paid each year.


Register Your Vessel Under Its New Name
After your application has been reviewed and given the green light by Transport Canada, you will be required to re-register your vessel using the new name you have chosen. You may do this task by using their website or contacting one of their regional offices in Canada. If you adhere to these instructions, changing the name of your yacht in Canada shouldn't be a problem for you. The only piece of information that you must provide is the official title of your yacht, which can be found on the registration certificate that was issued to you. When it comes to the form section labeled "Name," you need to make sure that the official name of the boat is entered using only capital letters. After that, a credit card payment for the corresponding charge will be requested from you.

Boating is an activity that everyone deserves to enjoy. People of all backgrounds and ages can find something to appreciate about being out on the water on a beautiful sunny day. In truth, however, brand-new boats can be expensive, and not every family has it in their budget to make such a purchase. With this in mind, know that Canada has a thriving secondary market for boats, and for those looking for a well-maintained previously owned vessel, there are certainly bargains to be had. If you are in the market to purchase a boat for the first time, and it happens to be used, you are probably going to want to learn how to transfer a boat title. Just like buying a used car, there is going to be some paperwork involved in such a transaction. Fortunately, at the National Vessel Registry Center, we are a private service that can help you do this online.

Understandably, if you are closing a deal on a boat, you are eager to get out on the waves and start making memories with your loved ones. After all, you have worked hard to save money for a boat, and you had to scour digital and print listings to find just the right vessel for you. Then you and the seller negotiated a fair price, some money changed hands, and you found yourself holding the keys to your new boat. While you are very close to being able to leave the dock, you will need to make sure that your documentation with Transport Canada is up to par.
How to Transfer a Boat Title with a Pleasure Craft License
If you are new to boating, you may be a bit confused about the differences between boat and boating licenses. You can hardly be blamed–they do sound remarkably similar. A boating license, officially called a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), is a document you can think of as akin to a driver’s license. A PCOC demonstrates that you have a basic competency to operate a motorized vessel, and it is required for most engine-powered boats. You can get your PCOC by passing a basic exam, usually after taking a brief educational course. A PCOC is free to acquire from Transport Canada.

A boat license or Pleasure Craft License (PCL) serves as more of a registration for your boat. Your PCL assigns the registration number that must be displayed in three-inch letters on both sides of your boat’s bow. These numbers should also be in contrasting colors from your boat’s paint job. In Canada, any vessel with an engine of 10 or more horsepower will require a PCL.

When you purchase a boat with a PCL, it must be transferred over to you. This is done by signing the back of the document and submitting it to Transport Canada along with a bill of sale.


Transferring a PCL Online
At the National Vessel Registry Center, we make it easy to transfer your PCL online. Simply select the appropriate drop-down from our easy-to-read navigation and you will be brought to a streamlined web form. To learn more about our services and how we can help you get back out on the water, contact us by email or phone today.

One of the great things about boating–and one of the reasons why it is so popular–is that it can be a lifelong hobby. No matter what age you may be, you can find something to appreciate about being out on the water, whether it is fishing, sightseeing, or even inter-tubing. As your life changes and grows, however, it is not unusual for your boating needs to evolve as well. Perhaps you and your family have outgrown your vessel and you need something larger. Maybe you are looking to downsize as your boating activities are less involved than they once were. Regardless of your circumstances, if you are looking to sell your vessel, there is surely a market for it. While boating can and should be enjoyed by all, purchasing a new boat can be expensive, so it makes sense that there is a thriving secondary market. If you are looking to make a sale, you may also find yourself wondering, how do I transfer ownership of a boat?

If you have done the work of listing your vessel, locating a buyer, and negotiating a price, you are probably eager to finalize the transaction. In truth, you are very nearly done at this point, but there are some paperwork matters that you will need to address when finalizing the deal. Specifically, you are going to need to transfer ownership of your Pleasure Craft License (PCL) or vessel registration. The good news is, at the National Vessel Registry Center, we can help you do this quickly online–read on to learn more.
How Do I Transfer Ownership of a Boat with Vessel Registration?
If your boat has a vessel registration with Transport Canada, there will be a process to complete in order to transfer ownership. Typically, registered vessels are used for commercial purposes or are financed with a marine mortgage, though that is not always the case. When you sell a registered vessel, a Form 6 - Bill of Sale will need to be processed with Transport Canada. This document should include your vessel’s name and official number, as well as a signature and printed name. Additionally, the buyer will need to provide a Form 3 - Statement of Qualification for Vessel Registration.
Transferring a PCL
Most recreational vessels will carry what is called a Pleasure Craft License, which serves as a registration document with Transport Canada. To transfer this document, the seller must sign it over on the designated field on the backside of the form. This, along with a bill of sale, will then need to be mailed to Transport Canada for processing.


Completing a Transfer of Ownership Online
We can help you transfer a PCL or vessel registration online. Simply locate the web form you need in our easy-to-navigate top menu, and in just a matter of minutes, you can submit your documents through our SSL-encrypted web portal. If you have any questions about our services, contact one of our friendly customer service representatives today.

If boating is one of your primary hobbies, there are not many destinations better than Ontario, Canada. With more than 250,000 lakes–roughly one-fifth of the entire world’s freshwater supply–the opportunities for boaters and outdoorsmen alike are nearly endless. If you are an Ontario resident, or if you have visited the area, you know that these pristine waters make for a great day on the lake. As you cruise along, however, with the sun in your face and the wind dancing on the waves, it is not unusual for something to fly off the deck of your boat, provided it is not secured. If you happen to lose the paper copy of your Pleasure Craft License (PCL), this can cause a bureaucratic headache, leaving you wondering how to replace a boating license in Ontario. Well, the good news is, there is no need for alarm and panic, as a private service such as ours can help.

If you have experience as a boater, you have probably worked with Transport Canada in the past. As this agency is in charge of issuing Pleasure Craft Licenses, Pleasure Craft Operator Cards (PCOCs), and vessel registrations, most boaters will be acquainted with their documentation. As Transport Canada is tasked with managing all transportation matters on both sea and land, they have a sizable job, and maintaining an accurate licensing database is crucial. This agency also requires that you keep a copy of your PCL onboard at all times, so if you do not wish to be stranded at the dock, you are going to want to seek out a replacement copy as soon as possible.
Why is a Pleasure Craft License So Important?
If you own a recreational vessel in Canada, chances are good that you will require a Pleasure Craft License. To be more specific, this document is mandatory for all motorized boats with engines of 7.5 kW (10 horsepower) or more. Any vessel can apply for a PCL, however, and many boat owners appreciate the peace of mind that comes with a license. As your PCL will give you a registration number to display on your boat’s exterior, it can help identify it in the event your boat goes missing or is stolen.

If your PCL has somehow gone lost or was accidentally destroyed, you can obtain a replacement or duplicate copy from Transport Canada. There are a couple of ways in which you can do this–you can send a written request to Transport Canada’s office in Ottawa, or you can work with an online service such as ours at the National Vessel Registry Center.


You Can Replace a Boating License in Ontario Online
To get a replacement for your PCL, simply select that option from the “License forms” section of our top navigation menu. From there, you will be brought to an easy-to-complete fillable form. With just a few details at the ready, you can complete this request in just minutes. To learn more about our services, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page, or contact us via email.

Undoubtedly there will be a part of your life in which, with all the pain in the world, you may need to part ways with your beloved vessel. Normally, boat owners don’t know where to start with this process. If you are amongst them, the National Vessel Registry Center can become your savior. This article in particular will explain to you the steps you need to take to transfer a boat license. Read on if you want to find out what exactly is the Pleasure Craft License you need to transfer and some other details related to the theme.
Definition of a Pleasure Craft License
In Transport Canada's words, “a pleasure craft license is a formal document with a unique identification number. It helps to trace a vessel back to its owner. In the case of an emergency, law enforcement and search and rescue organizations can use this number (or the vessel name if you are registered) to locate a vessel.” 

It is mandatory for vessels equipped with a motor of 7.5 kW or more and used for recreational purposes to get a pleasure craft license. Otherwise, you would be risking yourself having to pay costly fines. On the other hand, if it doesn’t have a motor, or if the power is less than 10 hP, it won’t need a license. Furthermore, if the vessel is used for commercial purposes, wants to be identified by a name rather than a number, plans to navigate abroad, or needs a marine mortgage, you will have to register it. 

When the watercraft you buy is already documented, you will have to transfer the boat license to the new owner.
Documents You Need to Attach to your Application
If that is the application you are looking for, how to transfer a boat license, will involve a series of documents that you will have to attach to support your application. Other than filling out the form, you have to provide proof of ownership of your boat. This is normally done with a bill of sale of the vessel. Apart from that, you will have to include valid government-issued identifications from the people involved in the transaction and a full-side-view color photograph of the craft.

If the boat you are selling is a pleasure craft, it is advisable to keep a copy of the bill of sale, to prevent headaches in the future in case anybody questions the ownership of the vessel. Furthermore, it is the buyer who is responsible for transferring the boat license from the previous owner to himself.


All of Your Forms at the National Vessel Registry Center
We began this article by saying that you probably didn’t know where to start the process to transfer a boat license. You are now one step closer to achieving it. If you are still worried about doing this by yourself do not worry, we can help you out. Just fill out the application from the document you are looking for and let us do the rest. You can do this completely online on our fully encrypted platform. Contact us today with anything else we can help you with!

Even though once the transaction with another boat owner has been completed the vessel is already yours in the papers, it may not “feel like yours” in reality. If that happens, you will want to make the new vessel yours in every possible way. To achieve this, you will probably decorate the interior to make it look the way you want, and outfit it to your greatest comfort. You might even decide to paint the boat to reflect your style. The first thing, however, that will make the vessel ultimately feel like yours (or not) is the name. Imagine that the actual name of your vessel is something like “Amelia” which casually is the same name as your ex-girlfriend. If you want to get a new one, we would understand. And if that is your case, you will find this article that explains how to change a boat name extremely useful.
How to Change a Boat Name Made Simple
The given name to a boat is not only a kind of “honorary title” awarded by the owner. When registered in Transport Canada, it is also a way to identify the vessel, so it is present on all the records of official documents associated with the boat. Other than being unique, there is a boat registration number linked to the boat. Both of them are used to identify the craft in the case of an emergency, and they also appear on the documents you may have of the watercraft like the mortgage, bill of sale, and so on.

For those reasons it is important that you like your name, given that it will appear everywhere. Let’s cut right to the chase and show you how to change your boat name. The first step that you need to take is to submit your application to Transport Canada. Make sure to fill the form as thoroughly as possible, so no mistakes are made that could delay the process. If you find the application complicated, you can always complete it at the simplified forms from the National Vessel Registry Center.
Changing the Address of your Pleasure Craft License
We haven’t forgotten about the change of address: this article is not only to show you how to change a boat name but also the address. In addition to that, it is possible to obtain them through our site. Given that the pleasure craft license is valid for ten years, it is understandable that your situation changes in that period. As such, you should inform Transport Canada of the new address. On the “Registry forms” tab from our website, you can find both the applications for a change of address and for a change of vessel name.


You Can Find All of your Forms in One Place
Who is exactly the National Vessel Registry Center? We are a third-party agency that noticed how inconvenient the site from Transport Canada can be. For that reason, we offer simplified forms and helpful articles that show information like how to change a boat name, the steps you need to take to transfer ownership of a vessel, and so on. In addition to that, our staff also oversees your documentation to prevent you from making mistakes, and the best part of this is that you can do it completely online. Contact us today and sort your paperwork out!

A time has come in which you need to part ways with your vessel. Unfortunately, it is not as simple as just handing over the keys. If you want to sell your boat, you will have to take certain steps first. Getting the boat in the best condition you can before publishing it, for instance, is the very first step of them. Of course, this will involve three different items. On one hand, you will need to clean the vessel as thoroughly as possible. On the other, you will need to make sure that all the papers you need for both selling and navigating the boat are up to date. Finally, you will also want to make sure that everything on the vessel is working as it should. Once those steps are finalized, you will be in the condition of publishing your boat online with some good pictures being taken. After you reach an agreement with the buyer to pay a fair price for the watercraft, you will need to put this down on paper. How can you do that? With a boat bill of sale. And what information should be included on that bill of sale? Let’s find out in this article.
What To Include in the Boat Bill of Sale
As you may know (or not) if your vessel is not registered with Transport Canada there is no official boat bill of sale. If it is documented with the governmental agency, you can use form 6. In simple words, this type of paperwork is used as a receipt for both the seller and the buyer to show that a transaction between them has taken place. This document is extremely important because, other than the proof of sale, you will then use it to transfer the ownership of the vessel.

As a general rule of thumb, the paperwork should give an answer to some questions about both the old and new owners, and also about the boat itself. Those questions are the following:

Who is buying and selling the boat?
What is the price of the vessel?
What is the make and model of the boat?

Other than those three common questions, you should also include information such as if a warranty is included on the vessel, if something from the boat is not working properly, etc. If you don’t want to write this by yourself, you can find samples online.
Some More Information About the Document
A boat bill of sale is only a part of the documents you need to submit to transfer the ownership of a vessel. The overall process is different between commercial and recreational vessels, so the documents you need for each of them vary. In the case of commercial vessels, you need to transfer the boat registration as well. With pleasure crafts, on the other hand, you will not need to do that.

The bill of sale will then be an indicator that the boat has been sold from one person to another, and the owner will use it to get his boat registration or license.


Easy Processing of your Boating Documentation
Luckily for you, if you are still uncertain about how to write the boat bill of sale, the National Vessel Registry Center is here to help you out. At our site, we process any type of boating documentation on your behalf and send it straight to Transport Canada. This way, we allow you to complete your documentation completely online. In addition to that, our staff checks that you didn’t make any mistakes on your application. Contact us today for any other questions you have.

You just bought a brand-new boat. You are probably itching to untie from the dock and head out onto the lake. That is only understandable–it probably took months of research and years of saving to finally purchase your very own vessel. While you have certainly unlocked a liberating pastime, there is some paperwork that you will need to complete. For starters, you are going to want to determine whether or not your boat belongs on the small vessel registry. There are a number of different types of licenses and registrations in Canada, and determining what type of documentation you need will primarily depend on what your boat is being used for. 

If you are like many leisure or casual boaters, you are probably looking to go out fishing, sightseeing, or tubing with your friends and family. If your boat has an engine with a horsepower of 10 or more, you will need a Pleasure Craft License (PCL) to engage in these activities with your vessel. A PCL will cover most motorized vessels that are used for non-commercial or recreational purposes. If your boat is going above and beyond such activities, however, you may need to pursue vessel registration. 
Meeting the Requirements for Vessel Registration
Only vessels meeting select criteria are mandated to complete registration–though it is a service that is available to all boats. Any boat that is being used for commercial purposes–charters, industrial fishing, tours–must complete a registration with Transport Canada. This is also true of boats that are financed with a marine mortgage. Additionally, if you are planning to travel under the Canadian flag on international waters, it is compulsory to register your vessel.

There are some benefits to be enjoyed by registering your vessel. For starters, you will be issued a completely unique name of your choosing. If you want to stand out from your peers down at the dock, vessel registration is one way to do so. With registration, you also do not have to worry about obtaining or renewing a PCL–your registration is all the documentation you will need, in that case.
How to Enter the Small Vessel Registry
To register your vessel, you will need to complete some paperwork. The application that you submit to Transport Canada should include some information about yourself, as well as your vessel. You will also need to provide proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale. A tonnage measurement and photographs of all four sides of your boat must also be submitted as supplemental materials. 


Use Our Online Forms to Register Your Vessel
While you can use paper forms to submit your registration application via mail, there is a quicker solution. Using our online forms and secure web portal, you can fill out your application in just minutes. We also feature a host of other helpful online services for your vessel documentation needs. If you would like to learn more, please browse our FAQs page, or contact one of our customer service agents by phone or email today.

Just as you had one or more reasons for buying your first boat, you might now be interested in selling your boat for a variety of reasons. People change, as do the times. Perhaps you’re thinking about a larger or more luxurious boat, or perhaps the one you have is much too large for your sailing needs. Weary of constant upkeep? Writing a bill of sale doesn’t have to be a stressful situation, which is why in this entry we’ll show you how to write a bill of sale for a boat in just a few minutes in a super easy and safe way. 
A Bill of Sale: What Is It?
You know how, at the end of the purchase when you go to any kind of store, you are given a receipt? When someone buys a boat, the same thing happens. In this case, however, the receipt is legally referred to as a "bill of sale." This document is very helpful as it acts as a legal transfer of ownership for the involved vessel. A bill of sale serves as evidence of ownership and can be used to transfer a boat's title, buy insurance, or change the registration of the vessel.
Why Do I Need A Bill Of Sale?
As stated before, the document that legally proves a change of ownership from one person to another is a bill of sale. When selling your boat, creating a bill of sale ensures that the transaction is properly reflected and that both parties are aware of the precise items and terms of the transfer. Most of the time, this is merely a formality between you and the buyer, but it’s never a bad idea to learn how to write a bill of sale, especially when you’re not very familiar with the buyer. As a seller, this is important when you’d like to be really clear with the specifics of the boat's characteristics and avoid problems in the future.
Providing the Right Information
So now that you and the buyer have reached a pricing agreement and are ready to begin the transaction, the time has come to draft a bill of sale. You will need to compile a few essential pieces of information in order to do this. The price of the boat, the names of the buyer and seller, and the make or model of the boat should all be listed on your bill of sale.

You can legalize the sale using Transport Canada's Form 6—Bill of Sale if your vessel is registered there. There are additional templates online that you can use if you're selling an unregistered pleasure ship. Get everything filled out thoroughly to prevent any potential misunderstandings with the ownership transfer.
An Online Service That is Right For You
It's OK if you don't understand how to navigate boat paperwork. After all, you've been training to navigate the seas and enjoy the lakes. Here at the National Vessel Registry, we can assist you in locating and completing the paperwork required to update your records and documentation with Transport Canada. You can avoid the hassle of printing forms, manually filling them out, and delivering them to the post office by using a private service. We provide all the information you require on a single practical website, allowing you to spend more time on your boat and less time on paperwork.
Writing the Bill of Sale
Knowing what to add to the document outline once you have it is perhaps the most important part of the equation. The majority of templates already walk you through the process, but it doesn't hurt to read more to ensure that the information is accurate. You become a responsible seller and feel more at ease when you have clear information.

Use every single detail about your vessel to ensure that, before you and the buyer sign on the dotted line, you both understand the terms of the deal. Include the boat's name, hull number, registration number, and other pertinent information (VIN, make, model, year, etc).

Once you have completed the template information and entered the necessary data you are ready to go. Make sure the document has the necessary spaces for the notary witness's signature and seal, as well as blocks for the signatures of the buyer and seller.


Learn More About Writing A Bill Of Sale For A Boat And Other Topics.
Let us assist you if you need to draft a bill of sale or register your boat for the first time. Look around our website for a moment to see if there are any documents you need to update. We have all the necessary forms, tools and experience to make this process easier for you. Additionally, we use an SSL-encrypted portal, so you can be sure that your personal data is secure. To find out more, visit our website or call us right away!.

 

Have you recently purchased a boat or yacht in Canada? If so, chances are you're brimming with excitement over the possibilities that await you on the open seas. Being a responsible boat owner, you're probably also planning on getting your vessel registered with Transport Canada as soon as possible. If you've taken a look at the official Canadian government's website for filing, and you're a little intimidated by all the forms and instructions, fear not—a third-party service could be the best way for you to get your documentation submitted.
Save Time, and Get it Done Right
By using an online third-party service, you can save on a most valuable resource: time. Web filing portals are often streamlined with easy to read instructions that allow you to fill in the most pertinent information clearly and easily. As some third-party services, like ours at Canadian Vessel Registry Center, will comb your application for any errors, you can also be sure that you get your documentation submitted right the first time. By having your paperwork done as accurately as possible, you won't need to worry about it being rejected and needing to re-submit.

One-Stop Shopping
A great thing that third-party services provide is one-stop shopping when it comes to vessel registration. Maybe you're applying first-time registration, or you require a transfer of licence” a good third-party service will be able to provide everything you need. Even transcripts, historical research, or other specific registration items will be made available by a service that knows it what they're doing” you want to look for a business that is interested in having you as a customer for as long as you find yourself out on the water.
Let Canadian Vessel Registry Center Help
If you're considering vessel documentation, and you've decided that utilizing a third-party service is the right choice for you, you'll find that Canadian Vessel Registry Center has everything you need. We offer easy to read forms for all of your Transport Canada documentation needs, and we provide crystal clear instructions” so you'll never find yourself lost in the paperwork. We also pride ourselves on accuracy, so you'll have peace of mind about the status of your application submission. Explore our website today and check out everything we offer” regardless of your documentation requirements, Canadian Vessel Registry Center offers an easy, online solution.

Have you recently purchased a new boat? Are you looking into Transport Canada boat registration for the first time? Maybe you have a registered vessel already, but you need to transfer ownership, or change your address? While you can do all of these tasks online through Transport Canada's official site, it's often wise to use a third-party service who can simplify the paperwork and help you cut down on errors. But how do you know who to turn to for your important vessel documentation needs?
A Web Search Can Give You Options
If you're interested in filing your application for Transport Canada boat registration online, it makes sense that the first place to start would be a simple web search. You might find that a Google search will pull up several different services for submitting your documentation with Transport Canada. In order to sort through your options, a smart thing to do is look for a service that provides a wide variety of registration services. This way, you'll know that the business you're going to knows what they're doing, and if you like their services, you'll be able to use them in the future for your additional needs.

It Doesn't Hurt to Ask Around
Word of mouth still means a lot in the boating community. Even though it seems like we depend on the internet for more and more these days, a personal recommendation on a third-party vessel registration service can still help you find the company that works best for you. You can ask around next time you're at the marina” who do your fellow boaters turn to for their Transport Canada boat registration needs? There are also bustling online web forums devoted to boating in Canada” these can be helpful places for to turn to for guidance as well.
Turn to the Best at Canadian Vessel Registry Center
So, you've decided it's time for Transport Canada boat registration, and a third-party service is the best avenue for you. You've asked around, looked online, and you've likely discovered that Canadian Vessel Registry Center's sterling reputation has set us apart from the competition. Well, we're more than happy to help! We offer vessel registration services in all kinds of different areas, so whether this is your first-time, or you need to update an existing registration, we can gladly assist with just about anything you may need.

Boat registration BC has changed over the years. In the past, you could obtain your boat number at the same time as your boat license; however, this is no longer the case, and instead, you will need to go through a distinct procedure to obtain your boat number. If you go to the correct location, you can still place an order for both your boat license and your boat registration number simultaneously.

If you already have a boat license, it should be easy to register your watercraft and obtain its registration number. The following tips will help you through the process of getting your boat registered:
Gather All the Documents Required For Registration
It's as easy to register a watercraft in British Columbia as it is to register a vehicle. Identification, evidence of address, and insurance details are just some of the many papers you'll need for either one. However, yacht registration requires a more extensive list of supporting documents, unlike vehicle registration. First, before completing the paperwork, you should learn as much as possible about the yacht model you intend to register.

All the necessary paperwork must be brought along for the fuel type (gasoline, diesel, or electricity) and the engine type (gasoline, diesel, or electricity). Fill out an application and attach the materials mentioned above once you're ready to move forward with your application. In addition to the vessel's name and class, the registration document needs details on the vessel's proprietor.
Complete the Application for Boat Registration BC Form
B.C. registration is required if you are a first-time boater or have recently bought a sailboat. You can register your boat either online or in person. If you only have one boat and want to avoid trouble traveling to the registration office, the internet choice is convenient. However, if you have multiple boats or need your registration number immediately, visiting in person is the way to go. Apply for a BC registry number by completing the Application for Vessel Registration.

You must provide details about yourself and the watercraft you're registering. The boat's proprietor and pilot must be listed (in most cases, these will be the same). Additional yacht proprietors' identities will be needed if more than one person is listed on the registration. Provide a thorough account of the boat and motor to ensure relevance.
Provide Personal Information like Your Address and Contact Information
To register your watercraft with the province of British Columbia and be considered a new resident, you must provide some information about yourself. Your personal information, such as your location, phone number, license number, or a "Personal Identification Number" allotted by the government, is required as the first step in the process. Suppose you already have a boat registration number and want to transfer your boat ownership to another individual. In that case, you can bring that number with you to the registry office when you go in to register your boat.

The registry office will then be able to transfer ownership of your boat to the new proprietor. If this is the case, make sure that you bring any documentation necessary for a transfer, such as a duplicate of the title and the bill of sale for the watercraft you are transferring, just in case it is asked for.

Pay Your Fees, Which Vary Depending On What Type of Vessel You Have and Where You Live
Paying the required costs is the first thing you must do to get your watercraft registered in British Columbia if you live there. If you have a professional sailboat or a recreational craft, the costs will differ. Where you reside can affect the prices you must pay in some circumstances.

Your registration number will be written on the document you receive after paying the required costs and getting reimbursed. The number is significant because if the Coast Guard needs to recognize your watercraft, it will assist them. Put this information away somewhere secure so that you can return to it in the future.

If you're wondering how to get a boat registration B.C number, you've come to the right place. The National Vessel Registry Center, Corp is a trusted resource for information about getting your BC registration and more. 

A boat Canadian boat bill of sale is a legal document that is used to transfer ownership of a vessel from one person to another. This document is important in Ontario because it shows proof of ownership, which Transport Canada needs for registration and licensing. Whether you are buying or selling a boat, it is essential to have a bill of sale to protect yourself from potential legal issues in the future.

In this blog post, we will cover the importance of having a boat bill of sale in Ontario, what information should be included in the document, and how a private online permit and form service called the National Vessel Registry Center can make the process easier for you.
Importance of a Canadian Boat Bill of Sale 
If you want to register and license your boat with Transport Canada in the province of Ontario, you will need a bill of sale. This document is also important to make sure that both the buyer and the seller are protected in case any disagreements come up after the sale. A bill of sale for a boat will give both parties a transparent record of the transaction as well as the terms and conditions of the sale of the boat.
Information Included in a Boat Bill of Sale
When creating a boat bill of sale in Ontario, it's important to include certain information. The document should say who the buyer and seller are, describe the boat, and include the price and terms of payment. The bill of sale should also include any warranties or representations made by the seller, such as whether the vessel is free from liens or encumbrances. Finally, both parties should sign and date the document.

Even though you can write your own bill of sale for a boat by using a template or buying a form that has already been made, it is highly recommended that you have a lawyer look over the document to make sure it meets all of the legal requirements. Using a private online permit and form service like ours at the National Vessel Registry Center can make the process of making a boat bill of sale easier and more accurate. Our service can ensure that the form is filled out correctly and simplify the process.
Using the National Vessel Registry Center for Your Boat Bill of Sale in Ontario
The National Vessel Registry Center is a private online form and permit service that specializes in boat registration and licensing. We can help make the process of obtaining a bill of sale easier and more efficient. The National Vessel Registry Center offers a simple and easy-to-use platform for creating a boat bill of sale that meets all legal requirements in Ontario.
What Are the Benefits of Working With Us?
Using the National Vessel Registry Center is helpful because our platform has step-by-step instructions to help users fill out their boat bill of sale correctly. This can be particularly helpful for first-time boat buyers or sellers who are unfamiliar with the process. Also, our online registration portal saves users time because they don't have to look up the different rules and requirements for boat registration and documentation.
Help Is Available Regardless of Where You Are
It's okay if you don't understand how to navigate the boating paperwork; many people don't. You can read nautical maps and know how the tides work. At the National Vessel Registry Center, we can help you find and fill out the different forms and documents you need to bring your records with Transport Canada up to date. You can save yourself the hassle of printing out forms, filling them out by hand, and taking them to the post office if you work with a private service instead of printing them out yourself. Because we provide everything you require on a single, easy-to-navigate website, you will be able to spend less time on administrative tasks and more time actually enjoying your boat.

Allow us to assist you if you are in need of drafting a bill of sale or registering your vessel for the very first time. Please take a moment to look around our website and determine whether or not there are any documents that require you to make any changes. Because we also use an SSL-encrypted portal, you can have faith that the people who have access to your personal information are trustworthy. Get in touch with us today for further information.

Easier and Faster Processing
When buying or selling a boat in Ontario, a bill of sale is a very important piece of paper. It shows who owns the property and keeps both parties safe in case of a dispute. You can use the online platform of the National Vessel Registry Center to make the process of getting a bill of sale easier and faster. We offer a simple and user-friendly way to create a bill of sale that meets all legal requirements in Ontario.

 

Importing a vessel into Canada can be a challenging endeavor; however, if one is equipped with the necessary knowledge and resources, the process can be completed quickly and without any trouble. If you've ever wondered how to import a vessel into Canada, today is your lucky day. In this post, we will walk you through the process of importing a vessel into Canada and explain how a private online permit and form service like ours at the National Vessel Registry Center can help make the procedure more straightforward.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
The first thing that must be done in order to import a vessel into Canada is to establish whether or not it is eligible. Vessels made in Canada or the United States can usually be brought into other countries without any problems. Vessels made in other countries might need more paperwork and inspections. It is important to find out where the ship came from and make sure it follows Canada's rules for importing goods.
Step 2: Obtain All The Documentation That Is Required
After it has been determined whether or not the importer is eligible, the next step is to collect the required documentation for the import. This includes a copy of the Bill of Sale, ownership documentation, and a current policy for marine insurance. It is also possible to include a form for making an import declaration to Transport Canada. This is one of the many forms that can be obtained from the National Vessel Registry Center.
Step 3: Pay All Applicable Taxes And Import Fees
Before a boat can be brought into Canada, the owner must pay any fees and taxes that apply. This includes any and all taxes that may be applicable, such as customs fees and the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST). These costs may change based on the total value of the vessel as well as its country of origin.
Step 4: Ensure That All Canadian Regulations Are Followed.
The environmental and safety regulations of Canada must be adhered to by any vessels that are brought into the country. Inspections by Transport Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard, and possibly even more regulatory bodies could fall under this category. Before bringing the ship into Canada, it is important to make sure that it follows all of the rules of the country and any particular province you might have in mind.
Finally, Register the vessel
Once the vessel has been imported and meets all Canadian regulations, it must be registered with Transport Canada. This includes getting a unique vessel registration number and making sure that number is marked on the boat in the right way. This can be done with the help of the National Vessel Registry Center, which makes it easy to get and register a vessel number online.

If you want to bring a boat into Canada, you can make the process easier and faster by using the National Vessel Registry Center. Our online platform makes it easy to get all the necessary forms and permits, and it also offers help and support at every step of the way. This saves time and trouble and lets boat owners enjoy their new boat instead of dealing with complicated import procedures.
Easily Follow All Necessary Rules And Regulations
Using the National Vessel Registry Center is also a good way to make sure that you are following the rules in Canada. Our team of experts can help you figure out what kinds of paperwork and inspections are needed to bring a ship into the country. We can also help you make sure you're following safety and environmental rules.

Importing a boat into Canada can be a complicated process, but if you have the right knowledge and tools, it can be done quickly and without much trouble. The process can be simplified by using a private online permit and form service like the National Vessel Registry Center. This makes it easy to get all the documents you need and follow the rules in Canada. Whether you are bringing a boat into the country for business or for fun, the National Vessel Registry Center can help make the process as easy and straightforward as possible.

Do Not Be Concerned About Boat Registrations And Licenses.
Still, having doubts about how to import a vessel into Canada? You can count on our service for all your boating needs. You can achieve a great deal of pride and gain a deeper understanding of the subject by doing the importation process without a broker. This is especially helpful if you intend to repeat the process in the future! One of the best and quickest ways to complete the registration process quickly is by using third-party processors such as us to handle the documents. Spend some time exploring our website. We can aid you in getting started. Contact us.

Sometimes the sea, and life, can present unforeseen challenges. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to know how to register a boat without ownership, you have probably found yourself in just such a situation. While the circumstances that brought you to this point may vary, there is, fortunately, a path to obtaining registration for a vessel without ownership.
Have You Lost Your Ownership Documents?
As you likely recall from purchasing a boat, there can be a fair amount of paperwork to navigate. Between registering your vessel, obtaining the correct provincial licensing, and acquiring a certificate of ownership, there is quite a bit of documentation to keep straight. No matter how organized you may be, however, sometimes accidents happen and things get misplaced. So, what do you do when you have lost your certificate of ownership?

Firstly, there is no need to panic. You can get a replacement certificate of ownership of Transport Canada. As the agency keeps thorough records on file, they will have access to your information, and can in turn send you a new copy.


Getting Your Boat Registered
It should be noted that you will need an official copy of your certificate of ownership to register your vessel, so do not think having a photocopy or picture of it on your phone will suffice. If you have lost this document, be sure to file an official request with Transport Canada.

Once you have your new proof of ownership, you can register your vessel by working with a private service such as us. We can help you gather the necessary information you need to submit a complete and accurate registration application to Transport Canada.
Finding an Abandoned or Lost Vessel 
Exploring Canada’s scenic waterways can lead to a number of discoveries. Aside from panoramic views of nature and rare scenes of wildlife, you may even come across a lost or abandoned boat. If you are a particularly bold hobbyist, you even want to restore it and add it to your own personal fleet. So, how can you go about ensuring that the boat has been abandoned?

Start by looking for any identification on the boat, including registration numbers. Once you have some pertinent information to work with, contact Transport Canada to see if the boat has indeed been abandoned, or if its owner had simply lost it (or worse–it was stolen). If it is, in fact, abandoned, you can file to be the receiver of its ownership, and in turn, hold its registration.
Still Curious About How to Register a Boat without Ownership? Contact Us
While Transport Canada does well to make its forms available, filling them out can be a hassle. Between identifying the correct form, printing it out, and writing in the correct information, getting a replacement certificate of ownership can take up a significant amount of time. Luckily, the National Vessel Registry Center can help. 

Our easy-to-browse website hosts all the boat documentation forms you need. We used streamlined documents and an encrypted portal, so you can trust us with the secure transmission of your personal information Transport Canada. To learn more, contact us today.

There’s a reason why it’s so important that you get your boating documentation in order as soon as you purchase the vessel in question. Whether you are registering a commercial vessel or getting a pleasure craft license, the document you are receiving will be vital going forward. After all, this will make your claim of ownership over the vessel official, as well as show that you are operating the vessel within Transport Canada’s specific guidelines. This is why you will always have to keep the official copy of your registration or your license on board while operating the vessel. This doesn’t mean a photocopy or a digital scan. In fact, guidelines are very strict about that. So, if you’ve lost or misplaced either document, you will have to go through an application process to recover it. Here’s how to replace lost boat registration or license.
How to Replace Lost Boat Registration
If you’ve lost your boat registration, you have to remember that you can’t operate your boat. You need to have an official copy of the certificate on board in order to do so, which is why it will be very important for you to get a duplicate of the registration. This doesn’t have to be complicated, but it can take a while, so it’s good to take care of it as soon as possible. Now, what you need to do is head over to the form for a replacement certificate, which you can find here on our website. Once you request it, it will only be a brief matter of time before you receive a new certificate and are ready to once again set sail.
Lost Pleasure Craft License
If you lose your pleasure craft license, you will have to go through a similar process. After all, the same principle applies in these cases, meaning that you’ll need to have your license on board in order to operate your pleasure craft in Canadian waters. So, if you need a new license after something happened to the original, you will have to request a duplicate from Transport Canada. This process is very simple, mostly involving the submission of a form. Just like with the previously explained process, you just need to head over to the duplicate option in our menu and fill out the form. Soon, you will receive a new official copy of the pleasure craft license so that you can continue sailing without issue.


Canadian Vessel Registry Center
It’s common knowledge that engaging with government agencies can often be quite frustrating, especially when it comes to transportation. Getting a replacement certificate, be it for your registration or your license, for example, can be a very inconvenient process, which is why we make an effort to make it easier for you. Here at the Canadian Vessel Registry Center, you will be able to find all the forms you might need in relation to your vessel. 

As a boat owner here in Canada, you are probably familiar with the importance of having your boat registration in order. This is why, should anything change in regards to a vessel’s ownership, it needs to be reflected on the official Transport Canada registry. Because of this, there are going to be situations in which you might have to submit the form for a transfer of registration. Let’s take a closer look at the process to transfer boat registration in Canada. 
Transfer Boat Registration in Canada
Part of the process to transfer ownership will depend on exactly what kind of transfer you are carrying out. After all, there are a few different ways in which you might end up approaching this matter. Because of this, it can quickly get very confusing, which is why we are here to break down the overall process for you. This way, you will be able to take care of your transfer of registration without issue.
Transferring the Registration Entirely
The most common form of transfer of registration will obviously be the sale of a vessel. In cases such as these, you are transferring the full extent of a registration to someone else as part of a transaction. After all, if you are selling the vessel, the registration needs to be updated accordingly to reflect this change. You will have to submit the transfer form, which will essentially formalize the purchase and grant the new owner the claim over the vessel. Pretty straightforward, right? It is! You will mostly just have to provide information about the vessel itself, as well as the contact information for the new owner so that the registration can be put to their name.
Partial Transfers of Ownership
Of course, not all transfers of ownership will be full. Some of them will be partial. For example, you might have joint ownership over the vessel with a partner and, because of some reason, either owner needs to be removed from the registration. Or, the other way around, you might be adding a person to the registration. Either way, you need to request a partial transfer of ownership from Transport Canada to update the registry accordingly. You still need to submit the transfer of ownership form and provide the same information. Just remember to submit it as a partial transfer of ownership rather than as a full one. This way, the registration will reflect the new ownership arrangement going forward.


Submit Forms to Transport Canada
It’s common knowledge that engaging with government agencies can often be quite frustrating, especially when it comes to transportation. Transferring your boat registration, be it fully or partially, for example, can be a very inconvenient process, which is why we make an effort to make it easier for you. Here at the Canadian Vessel Registry Center, you will be able to find all the forms you might need in relation to your vessel. 

Operating a boat in Canada, just like a car, needs to be done under certain legal and administrative circumstances. It’s important, after all, to know that those operating vessels are qualified to do so, and that the vessel itself is in order. Here’s how to licence a boat in Canada and how to get a licence yourself.
What Boats Need to be Licenced?
First of all, what vessels need to be registered and which ones need to be licenced? Well, in general terms, commercial vessels need to be registered, while recreational ones don’t necessarily have to be. However, you will most definitely need that licence if you’re not planning on getting that recreational vessel registered. This licence will essentially give you a permit to operate your vessel in accordance with Transport Canada’s rules and regulations. Now, what’s important to keep in mind that his process will come with requirements of its own, so let’s take a closer look at these.
What Do You Need to Get an Operators Licence?
When figuring out how to licence a vessel in Canada, you will learn that, as part of the application, you go through three different stages: a safety test, a temporary licence, and an operator card. The safety test is the official Transport Canada exam known as the Canada Boating Safety Test. After passing the test, you can get a temporary licence that you will be able to use while you wait for the actual licence. This temporary will be valid in all Canadian provinces. Between two to three weeks later, you will receive the actual licence operator card in the mail, which will allow you to operate the vessel going forward. However, how about licensing the vessel itself?
How to Licence a Boat in Canada
Now, in order to get the licence for the vessel in and of itself, you will need to prove your claim over the boat and submit it as part of the application. This will serve, going forward, as a proof of ownership and permission to use the vessel, which means that it will be tied from now on. If you’re to sell the vessel to someone else, the licence will stay with the vessel, not with you as a former owner. If you’re looking for the application to receive the licence, you will find it readily available here on our website. You will be able to fill it out and submit it through our platform, after which it will be passed along to Transport Canada, going through our checkers to ensure that all information is correct and ready to be processed.
Submitting Boat Documentation
Whether you’re looking into how to licence a vessel in Canada or to register your commercial boat, we want the process to be easy for you. This is why we make it so you can conveniently fill out and submit every relevant form through our website directly to Transport Canada. If you have any question about what the process you’re taking care of entails, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. 

You can forgo applying through Transport Canada to register your pleasure craft. That’s because you can also register a boat through the National Vessel Registry. Doing so will simplify the process and help you free up your time so you can focus on business obligations or family.

However, it still is important to understand why registering your boat is important although it is not mandatory. It still needs to be done, as it provides an extra measure of protection. Not only does registration help identify your boat during an emergency, it allows you to apply for a marine mortgage, if necessary. 
Why You Should Register a Boat
When you register a boat, it gives you more latitude to substantiate ownership, along with your bill of sale, and to navigate the waters without worry.

So, what is involved in the registration process and how is it different from licensing?


Registration versus Licensing
Licensing Your Pleasure Craft in Canada
Unlike a boat operator’s license that proves your operator status, or that you can operate your boat, a pleasure craft license represents an ID number that you place on your boat so search and rescue (SAR) personnel can find you in an emergency. 

While a pleasure craft license represents this I.D. number, a vessel registration shows that you have legal title, which backs up your proof of ownership (the bill of sale). The registration allows you to give your boat a unique name, an official number, and the right to use your boat as collateral for a marine mortgage.
Boat Licensing Requirements
Small Vessel Regulations in Canada require that boat owners of pleasure crafts of any size, equipped with motors of at least 10 horsepower or 7.5 KW, be licensed. You can get a boat license through the National Vessel Registry for 10 years and renew the license after that period. 

If your boat has already been licensed, make sure it has the correct name and current address. Any change or renewal of your name or address is not the same as renewing your license.
Registering a Boat through the National Vessel Registry
Registering a boat involves selecting 3 names for your boat to ensure the name’s uniqueness. The boat’s name must not sound similar or be the same as another boat’s name in the registry. Otherwise, it defeats the purpose of naming the boat - to find your vessel in an emergency. 

Part of the process involves completing an application for registry, showing evidence of ownership and title, and providing a statement of qualification. You will also need to have the boat measured for tonnage. Naturally, you can simplify this protocol by using the National Vessel Registry to complete a boat registration process.

Indeed, it is helpful to know the steps of the process and stay on top of your legal obligations along these lines. Doing so will reduce any administrative difficulties in operating your boat and will help you navigate the waters with confidence.

As the owner of a Canadian pleasure craft, you must know the regulations governing Canadian waterways. Therefore, it is important for you to gear yourself with the right equipment and to understand the procedures and differences between licensing and registration. Knowing these details will ensure your and your passengers’ safety and the safe navigation of other boaters.
The Advantages Experienced When You Register a Boat
Each vessel registered in Canada possesses a unique identification number. The ship's tonnage, construction material, and type are displayed in the country’s registration database as well. As a registered boat owner, you are given the I.D. number and, again, can choose a unique name for your boat. 

You also can fly the Canadian flag or display it on your boat. Per the 2001 Canada Shipping Act, registering a boat is optional if you own a pleasure craft. Regardless of your boat’s length or tonnage, registration is optional.

Registration remains valid as long as you’re the owner of the vessel. Always carry your registration onboard as well as the ownership paperwork (bill of sale). Doing so is extremely helpful if you cross from and to Canada into and out of the U.S.

Again, if you register your boat through the National Registry Center online, you can save a great deal of time, as you can use the site’s forms to RUSH through your license or registration paperwork.

 It only takes minutes to complete an application and upload the necessary documents. Going through a secured and encrypted web portal saves you a good deal of money and time.
Register Your Pleasure Craft Today
Don’t delay the process if you wish to register a boat. Take the steps needed so you can operate your boat without delay. By going through the National Registry Center, you can simplify the process and ensure compliance.

The obligations of daily life can often get in the way of your boating time. Between work and family engagements, you cherish those days that you can spend out on the water with the people you care about. If you forget to renew your boat registration, however, you can find yourself stuck at the dock until your paperwork is updated.

It is an all too common predicament. Maybe you lost track of the date, or your renewal notice got buried in a stack of mail–regardless, missing your vessel registration renewal can quickly turn into a bureaucratic headache. Fortunately, there is an easy way to submit your renewal documents in an accurate and prompt fashion.


Navigating a Complex Process
When you think about boating, you think about freedom. The open water, the wind in your hair, the worries of land far off on the horizon. You probably don’t associate boating with piles of paperwork. The truth is, boat ownership is a sizable responsibility, and as such, there are certain pieces of documentation that you need to keep updated. Your vessel’s registration is a foundational piece of such paperwork.

So, how do you submit your registration renewal to Transport Canada? The traditional method would be to first source the appropriate forms to complete. Then you will need to compile any needed supporting documentation. After writing out a check for the requisite fee, you will then need to package your application and get it to the post office. If you are a busy individual, that can seem like a time-consuming hassle.
How to Renew Boat Registration in Canada Quicker 
In this day and age, most of the business that we conduct takes place online. Renewing your vessel’s registration does not need to be an exception. By working with an experienced private service such as the National Vessel Registration Center, you can submit your registration renewal–as well as a number of other documents–through a secure, SSL-encrypted web portal.

Our mobile-optimized site can help you complete even complex, nuanced documents in a matter of minutes. By using our easy-to-fill, streamlined web forms, you can avoid the nuisance of printing documents, filling them out in ink, and trying to get to the post office before it closes. We also make it easy to upload supporting documents and photographs should your application call for them.
Learn More - Contact Us Today
Whether you need a registration renewal or a first-time license, we can help. We offer these and an array of other online forms to serve the many needs of Canadian boat owners. Take some time to explore our site–if you need a vessel documentation form, the odds are good that we have it. 

Outside of purchasing a home or a new vehicle, buying a boat is one of the larger financial commitments that you can make in your life. If you are shopping for a Canadian vessel to call your own, you may be interested in purchasing a used model. In truth, a second-hand vessel that has been well-maintained by the previous owner can provide you with tremendous value. Wondering how do you prove ownership of a boat? We'll explain. 

If buying a used boat is the route you will be taking as a prospective vessel owner, you have a few steps that you will need to take. First, you will need to determine your budget. Keep in mind, that outside of the cost of the boat itself, there are maintenance and docking fees to consider as well. Then, you will want to peruse online and print listings. After you have located the ideal boat for you, you should then contact the seller and make an offer.

Once you and the seller have agreed to a price and money is ready to exchange hands, you may think you are in the clear to take to the water and leave the troubles of land behind. There is one last, very important part of the process to complete, however: ensuring that your vessel documentation and proof of ownership are current.


Buying a Canadian Vessel With Little to No Current Paperwork
The internet has made it possible to find and purchase just about anything. Used boats and other watercraft are no exception. While there are some amazing deals to be had, there are also a fair amount of lemons and risky situations that you can find yourself involved with.

Let’s say you have found an amazing boat at an unbelievable price–the deal of a lifetime, right? There is, however, one sizable catch. The boat is coming from a salvage yard and it has no original paperwork. Is this an issue and should you think twice?

The short answer is: Maybe. While it is not necessarily illegal to purchase a boat that has none of its original documentation, it may lead to some unfortunate surprises once it comes into your possession. Perhaps the boat has been in a significant accident, or it has multiple liens against it. These are not issues that you will want to navigate after you have finalized your purchase.

Fortunately, there are some relatively simple ways to find out more about a boat’s history. If you can secure some basic facts, such as the vessel’s registration number, you can request historical research from Transport Canada. This can give you an idea on the boat’s background as far as owners and damaging incidents it was involved in, provided it is in the Canadian Vessel Registry.

Working with a private service, such as ours at the Canadian Vessel Registry Center, can allow you to obtain historical research in a quick and efficient way by using our online portal.
Transferring a Registration or License to Demonstrate Ownership
Considerable transactions such as buying a car or house tend to come with a fair amount of paperwork. In Canada, this is also true for boats. If the vessel you are purchasing is already licensed or registered, that documentation will need to be transferred to your name. While this can seem like a mountain of paperwork to complete, it can be done in a pretty straightforward and timely fashion with our help.

You will first have to gather some basic information. You will need your proof of ownership of the vessel (think receipts, titles, etc.), a photograph depicting the full side-view of your new boat, and a valid form of Canadian government identification. Once you have assembled these items, you will then need to complete a pleasure craft transfer of license form.

You can do this in one of two ways. You can source the document from Transport Canada, print it and complete it in ink, package it with your supporting documentation and then submit it via mail to the appropriate Canadian government entity. Sounds like a lot of work, right? 

Your other option is to work with us at the Canadian Vessel Registry Center. We offer an easy-to-fill online form for this and a number of other boat documentation matters. You can use our website to quickly find the form you need, fill out the pertinent fields, and upload your supporting documents and payment via our SSL-encrypted web portal. We strip out all of the confusing fine print and redundancies so you only worry about the aspects of your needed document that apply specifically to your situation.
Learn More By Contacting Us Today
Whether you need to transfer an existing registration, apply for a brand new one, or acquire another form of vessel documentation, we can help. We specialize exclusively in helping Canadian boaters get the forms they need in a prompt manner so that they can get back out on the water. To learn more, contact one of our customer service representatives today.

Boating can give you an unmatched sense of freedom. Ontario, which is home to hundreds of thousands of lakes and waterways, is in many ways a boater’s paradise, and an ideal setting for you to explore and fish. Before you load up your vessel, however, you will want to make sure that you have secured a pleasure craft license.

With a proper license, you will have demonstrative proof of the competency needed to safely operate a boat in Canada. Read on to learn more about how you can get your license and get out on the water.

The whole point of registering your vessels with Transport Canada is to get the corresponding documentation in order in accordance with the Canada Shipping Act. This will grant you your claim over your vessel without issue going forward just as long, of course, as you keep a physical copy on you. This is why a replacement certificate will come in handy.
Your Registration Certificate
Why do you register your commercial vessel with Transport Canada? Well, in part, you do this to comply with the national guidelines for vessels, of course, but this also helps you establish ownership over the vessel itself going forward. Now, because of this, it’s very important to have your certificate at hand while operating your vessel, for it represents the good standing of your vessel with the government and displays the authorization to operate. An official physical certificate will be mandatory, meaning that you need to keep such a copy on board whenever you’re operating. Because of this, it’s important to make sure such a copy is never missing from your vessel and protect it going forward.
Did Something Happen to Your Certificate?
So, if having your official copy of the certificate around is so imperative, what if something happens to it? Maybe it got wet and damaged or it went missing. In cases such as these, you are going to have to go through a particular process in order to make sure you are able to continue operating without a problem. No, a photocopy or a digital version of the certificate won’t be valid forms of documentation. If you’re stopped by the corresponding authorities and you don’t have an official copy of your certificate, you might end up having trouble. Hence, you have to request a replacement certificate from Transport Canada so that you’re able to receive another official certificate. 
Getting a Replacement Certificate
So, how do you take care of such a request? What do you have to do in order to receive a replacement certificate? It’s not as simple as re-downloading the certificate and printing it, but don’t worry, this isn’t that complicated. All you need to do is submit the form for a replacement request, which you will find here on our website. Your registration is still in order, after all, so there’s no need for you to go through the overall application process again. It won’t take long for you to receive the new certificate for you to keep aboard at all times and avoid potential problems.
Apply For a Replacement
Once you know what you need to do, it will be time to actually submit your replacement certificate request. You can do so directly and risk delays, or you can submit everything through our platform here at the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. We are always making sure that people have easier access to Transport Canada registration forms and applications, as well as the right venue through which to submit them. You’ll be able to find everything you need here on our website. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us by calling +1 (800) 419-9569 or emailing us at info@canadianvesselregistry.ca.

If you have caught the boating bug, you may just have a hobby for life. People of all ages can find something enjoyable about a day out on the water, whether that be fishing, sightseeing, or water sports. As your life grows and changes, though, so too may your boating needs. Maybe you are looking to purchase a larger vessel to accommodate a growing family. Perhaps it is time to downsize as the kids have gone off to college. Regardless of your circumstances, if you are planning to buy or sell a boat, there are some steps that you will need to follow. If you are selling a boat, you will need to create an engaging listing in online and print marketplaces. If you are buying a boat, you will want to do a fair amount of research on which particular make and model is right for you. No matter what end of the transaction you happen to find yourself on, though, you should know a bit about how to complete a Transport Canada boat transfer online.

Whether you are buying or selling a boat, you will find yourself working with Transport Canada from time to time. As the nation’s primary transportation agency for all things water-related, Transport Canada is tasked with regulating our waters and issuing licenses and registrations. As such, this agency likes to stay informed when a vessel with a pleasure craft license (PCL) or a vessel registration changes ownership. The good news is, you can find the forms you need online using our website. We have a number of fillable forms for all sorts of Transport Canada documents, and if you are buying or selling a vessel, we can help you do what you need to do over the web. 
Completing the Right Transport Canada Boat Transfer
In a transaction involving a boat, the paperwork that you will need to process with Transport Canada is largely dependent on how your boat is documented. If your boat has a PCL–which is applicable to most pleasure crafts with an engine of 7.5 kW or more–you will need to sign over the license to the new buyer, who will then need to provide a bill of sale to Transport Canada. You can complete this process online using our forms found under the “Pleasure Craft License” section.

Registered vessels require a slightly different process. When a registered vessel is sold, a Form 6 - Bill of Sale and a Form 3 - Statement of Qualification for Vessel Registration will need to be provided to Transport Canada by the buyer. We also have streamlined versions of these forms on our website.

Close Your Deal with Our Forms
Whether you need a bill of sale or a pleasure craft license application, we have easy-to-fill web forms for you. If you would like to learn more about our services, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page, or take a few minutes and keep exploring our site for yourself.

Now that you are close to purchasing your first pleasure vessel, you want to make sure that you are aware of the paperwork and processes you need to go through so you can use your boat as soon as possible. When you reside in an area of Canada, such as British Columbia (BC), the law requires that you obtain a licence for your pleasure craft before you can put it in the water. Without a licence, your boat would be in the water illegally, making you subject to high fines if you are stopped. Knowing the steps you need to take so you can go about licensing a boat in BC can help ensure that you have just what you need quickly, so you do not have to wait to enjoy your time on your boat.
The First Step in Licensing
The first step you want to perform with licensing happens before you even put pen to paper or go to your keyboard. You want to make sure you have all the essential information and documents that you need, so you have everything in front of you. You will need your ownership information and address and information that pertains to the vessel itself. Make sure you have proof that you own the boat, such as a bill of sale, because you will need to provide a copy of this to complete your application. You will also need a copy of your government-issued identification so that you can prove your Canadian citizenship. Finally, you will need a current color photograph that shows the side view of the boat.


The Licensing Form
When you are licensing a boat in BC, you need the information discussed above, but you will also need to fill out the licensing form. Turning to Transport Canada for this information may not be the best option for you because you need to mail the information directly to them. You may worry about the security of your form, data, and copy of your identification as it goes through the mail. You also must contend with the typically long wait required when the forms go through standard mail. At the National Vessel Registry Center Corp., we have a more efficient, more secure way for you to do everything you need to get your license.
Licensing Done the Easy Way
To go about licensing a boat in BC the easy way, make sure you use our services here at the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. We are a third-party service that handles vessel licensing and registration processing to Transport Canada, and we have a state-of-the-art, secure website that you can use to access all the forms you may need for the licensing process. Come to our website, fill out your application online, upload your documents, and that is all you need to do. Our office takes care of everything else for you, checking your application for accuracy before we send it to Transport Canada for approval so you can get your license.

Are you looking to purchase a new boat? Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a first-time boat owner, getting a new boat may be a thrilling experience. You'll likely be ready to get on the water after your purchase is complete. However, similar to a new car or big item purchase, you should be aware that there can be some paperwork to complete before you can start enjoying your new vessel. Keep reading to learn more about what kind of licence you need and how to process an application for a pleasure craft licence.

It is important that you take care of your registration and licensing obligations in order to avoid getting into any kind of legal trouble with the authorities. Having all the papers in order is a good way to make the most of the hours of freedom that come with boat ownership. The amount of paperwork your boat will need will primarily depend on how big it is and what you plan to use it for. Fortunately, the National Vessel Registry Center can assist you with all of your documentation needs.
Do I Need to Apply for a Pleasure Craft Licence?
A good way to know if you need to apply for a PCL is to try to answer the following question: "Are you planning to use the vessel to earn money?" If you answer yes, then you might instead need to look for a commercial licence. Otherwise, it is a leisure craft. It qualifies as a pleasure craft if you're using it only for amusement and pleasure. For example, you can have friends and family over as long as you’re not making a business out of it. Additionally, if your pleasure vessel has more than 7.5 kW or 10 horsepower, you must obtain this license.
Who Should Not Submit an Application for a PCL?
As we mentioned previously, if you intend to operate your vessel for business purposes, you won’t need to process an application for a pleasure craft licence. Instead, you're going to find the application to register your boat. Your boat is not a pleasure craft if, for example, you intend to use it as a paid ferry across a body of water, for the transportation of products, or for commercial fishing. Remember that you can also find all the necessary forms on our website under the registry section. Once you’re there, scroll down until you see the drop-down menu for the first time registration options. Please contact us if you need any assistance. 
Fill Out This Form Using Your Phone
It's quite easy to complete it on your phone whenever you want. Go to our website, choose "licence forms," and then choose "New Pleasure Craft License" from the drop-down menu. Fill out the form after that with the information that will be requested. This simple process is possible because of our website’s optimization, which makes it phone-friendly. You can quickly and effectively open this form on your phone as a result. You can then complete it whenever and however you'd like. To that end, we not only make it simple to fill out these forms, but we also protect your information. We've made it possible for you to fill out our forms on anything, including your phone, and be confident that your information will be secure thanks to our SSL encryption.
Duplicates and lost PCL
Should the situation arise in which your license is destroyed, lost, or stolen, it is important that you request a duplicate as soon as possible. Other situations where you might also need to request a duplicate are if you write anything on it or even if you laminate it, which can make it difficult to read, thus rendering it ineffective and invalid. The request for a duplicate must be accompanied by the information required to identify you and some characteristics of your vessel. 


Application Process, Anytime, and Anywhere With Our Online Forms 
At the National Vessel Registry Center, we make it simple to submit your PCL application online. You can submit your extra documents and finish an application in just a few minutes by using our SSL-encrypted website. Why take the time to go to the post office when our straightforward web forms can make things much simpler? You can work on the online application for a pleasure craft licence during lunch breaks at work or anytime you have access to the internet with the peace of mind that your data is secure and in good hands.

For all of your vessel's paperwork requirements, we also offer a wide variety of different online encrypted forms. If you would like to learn more about the services we offer, visit our detailed FAQs page at the National Vessel Registry’s website. You may also contact us by phone or email right now to find out more about how we can assist you. 

 

Not everyone is lucky enough to find the boat they want to purchase right in their own backyard. It would be ideal if you had a broker, previous owner, or manufacturer around the corner offering just the vessel you want at the price that is perfect for you, but things rarely work out that way. Many Canadians do end up buying boats that are manufactured and registered in the United States, and if you end up doing something like this, it is important that you familiarize yourself with the process involved before you get ready to bring the boat into Canada. Knowing the best ways to import a boat from the USA can save you from potential headaches and problems when you are bringing the vessel across the border.
Import a Boat from the USA: Gathering Information Before Import
You want to make sure that you have all your paperwork in order before the date in which you are planning to bring your boat into Canada. Preparing ahead of time will help ensure that you do not overlook something you may need or make an error on any of your paperwork that could cause a problem or delay. A bill of sale is a necessity when importing, so you want to make sure you have something from the broker or the deal to help smooth the transition. You will also need to have your identification so that you can prove you are a Canadian citizen.


The Day of Import
When the day arrives that you are going to import a boat from the USA into Canada, you will have a few steps to take. If you are transporting the boat by water, you will need to stop at one of the designated ports on your route so that you can contact the proper customs officials. They will inspect your paperwork and the boat to make sure everything is correct. If you are traveling by land, you will need to stop at the border to have everything confirmed by Canadian customs officers at the border. In either situation, you will also need to pay any appropriate tax or duty that may be owned (the amount can vary) before the vessel can be brought into Canada.
Registration After Import
Once you have gone through the process so you can import a boat from the USA, you will want to look into the registration process or licensing so that your vessel can have all the legal information you need to operate in Canada. Here at the National Vessel Registry Center Corp., we can assist you with any and all the paperwork you might need to file with Transport Canada as part of the process. We provide all the applications in electronic form so that you can do everything on your computer, and our fast and secure system allows you to complete everything quickly and get it to us so that we can send your paperwork to Transport Canada for you. With our assistance, you can accomplish all you need to do so that your new ship is ready to go.

When you are operating a pleasure craft during your leisure hours in Canadian waters, you will need to make sure that you have obtained the right kinds of license. There are plenty of risks around in the open water, from high waves to other sailors, and so it is necessary for you to be clearly marked for the Coast Guard to read. If you are wondering what it takes to apply for a  pleasure craft licence in Ontario and what you need to do afterward, the National Vessel Registry Center can help you to understand more about what is being asked from you and the benefits that you can gain by licensing your vessel.
Operator Or Licence Card
When you are operating a boat in the Ontario region, you need two types of cards with you to be displayed at all times. The first is known as the Pleasure Craft Operator Card, which is the license for you, giving you permission to drive the vessel. The second is the pleasure craft license, which is the permission for the boat to be in the water and be driven. Without both of these cards, you are not legally in the water. The Coast Guard will make sure that you are complying with these requirements, and may fine you as much as $250 if you are not able to produce these cards on request. It is important that you take the time to apply for these documents before you start using your vessel as a pleasure craft.


What Is Needed To Apply For A licence?
If you want to apply for a license for your vessel, there are a few things that you will need to submit when you make your application to Transport Canada. First, you will need to download and complete an application form that must be filled in according to the questions asked on the form. This is not always easy, and you may need to talk to us in order to get help with the completion of this part of the task. Second, you need to have proof that you are the owner of the vessel, and that it is currently in Canadian waters. Lastly, you will have to provide a valid government ID that shows you and be clearly identified by you as the owner of the boat.
Get Assistance With The Forms
When you are trying to claim a pleasure craft licence in Ontario, you will need help with completing the filing of the forms. Many of these forms seem to be deliberately complicated, often asking the same or similar questions more than once. If you want to make sure that you submit the forms correctly at the first attempt, and want to avoid errors, then you need to speak to the National Vessel Registry Center. We are here to make applying for a PCL much easier.

Do you need info on how to change the name of a boat in Canada? Are you looking to change the name to something else but aren’t exactly sure where to start? We can help. Changing the name of your vessel is natural, the kind of thing that happens all the time. At the National Vessel Registry Center Corp., we believe the process should be as simple as possible. To that end, we make it easy to take care of this documentation as well as many, many other forms. 


A Simple Way to Change the Name of a Boat in Canada 
In just a few steps, you can apply to change the name of your vessel and do it through our site. First, go to “Registry Forms,” and then click on “Change of Vessel Name and/or Transfer of Port of Registry.” Then, fill out the form. To expedite the process further, we marked some parts of the form with red asterisks - those are the blanks you absolutely have to fill out, the rest are optional. Then, send the form to us. That’s it. In just a few button clicks, you’ll be on your way to a new name for your vessel. 
What to Keep in Mind About Your Vessel’s Name 
If there’s one piece of advice we give vessel owners about their vessel’s name, it’s: remember, the name will be associated with you. Something that seems “cute” and “clever” in conversation or at the bar ends up feeling labored and annoying if you have to explain it to everyone who sees it on your vessel, whether on the water or at port. Name it something that you’ll be glad to have associated with you for as long as you own the vessel (and probably beyond). 
Where to Make Other Alterations 
It’s important to note that changing the name of your vessel is just one of the many different alterations you can make to your registration at our site. For example, we have a form called just “alterations”. With that, you’ll be able to update your vessel’s description, horsepower, tonnage, type of propulsion, and more. If there’s been some significant change to your vessel (such as transfer ownership, paying off the mortgage, and more) we have the type of documentation to keep you in compliance with the powers that be. 
All the Canadian Boat Forms You Could Need 
In fact, we have so many different kinds of Canadian boat forms at our site, we even have the ones for folks who aren’t getting their vessel’s documentation. To that end, we have pleasure craft license forms, too. If you aren’t going to use your vessel for commerce, to make money, and are just going to use it to have fun with family and friends, then we’ve got these forms as well. Moreover, as our site is mobile optimized, you can fill out these forms from everywhere. To see all that we offer, head to our site. 

To update your boat’s information after a hull modification, you must submit an application for an alteration to Transport Canada through the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. 

Use this form for “alterations.” 

This process involves providing details about the changes made to the boat, such as its new dimensions, tonnage, or other relevant specifications. The required forms and supporting documents can be completed and submitted online via the NVRCC platform.
Why is it important to update my boat’s registration after a hull modification?
Updating your boat’s registration after a hull modification is crucial to ensure that your boat’s documentation remains accurate and compliant with Transport Canada regulations. Hull modifications can affect the boat’s specifications, such as its length, tonnage, or structural characteristics, which must be reflected in the official records. 

Failure to update may result in penalties or complications during inspections or renewals.
How long does it take to process an update after a hull modification?
Processing times for updates after a hull modification can vary depending on the complexity of the changes and the completeness of the submitted application. 

Using the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. can help expedite the process by ensuring that all required information is accurately submitted.
Can I use the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. for other documentation needs?
Yes, the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. can assist with a wide range of documentation needs, including initial boat registration, renewals, transfers of ownership, and updates to boat information. 

The platform is designed to simplify these processes and ensure compliance with Transport Canada regulations.
Is there a fee for updating my boat’s registration after a hull modification?
Yes, there is a fee associated with updating your boat’s registration after a hull modification. The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. provides pricing and guidance on the fees involved.
What happens if I don’t update after a hull modification?
Failing to update after a hull modification can lead to discrepancies in your boat’s documentation. This may result in fines, delays during inspections, or issues with insurance coverage. Keeping your boat’s information up to date ensures compliance with regulations and avoids potential complications.

Updating your boat’s information after a hull modification is a critical step to ensure that your boat’s documentation remains accurate and compliant with Transport Canada regulations. Hull modifications can significantly alter the boat’s specifications, such as its length, tonnage, or structural characteristics. 

These changes must be reflected in the official records to maintain the boat’s legal standing and operational integrity. Keeping your boat’s information up to date ensures compliance with regulations and avoids potential legal or operational challenges.
How can I get help with updating my boat’s registration?
For assistance with updating your boat’s information after a hull modification, you can visit the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. website. The platform offers step-by-step guidance, access to required forms, and support to ensure that your application is completed accurately and efficiently.
What is the National Vessel Registry Center Corp.?
The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. is an online service that assists boat owners in managing their boat documentation and registration with Transport Canada. The platform streamlines processes such as initial registration, renewals, transfers, and updates to boat information.
What Are the Benefits of Registering a Vessel?

Canadian boat registration offers numerous advantages, particularly for those using their boat for commercial purposes or international travel. Registration provides legal proof of ownership, which is essential for financing, selling, or insuring the boat. It also allows the boat to be issued a unique name, which can be important for branding or identification purposes. 

Additionally, registered boats are recognized internationally, making it easier to travel across borders and comply with foreign regulations. Registration also establishes a clear record of ownership and can help resolve disputes or claims related to the boat.
How Long Does the Licensing or Registration Process Take?
The processing time for licencing or registering a boat can vary. Generally, a pleasure craft licence can be processed within a few business days, while boat registration may take longer due to the additional documentation required. 

The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. aims to expedite the process by offering an online platform that ensures applications are submitted correctly and efficiently. By providing clear instructions and support, the platform helps boat owners avoid common mistakes that could delay the process. 

Can I Transfer Registration to a New Owner?

Yes, you can. For a registered boat, the process involves submitting a transfer application along with the bill of sale and other supporting documents. The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. provides the necessary forms and guidance to facilitate this process, ensuring a smooth transition of ownership and compliance with Transport Canada regulations.
What Happens If I Lose My License or Registration Certificate?
If you lose your pleasure craft licence or boat registration certificate, you can request a replacement through the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. 

For a pleasure craft licence replacement, you will need to provide your licence number and proof of identity. 

For a registered boat, you will need to submit a request for a replacement certificate along with the required fee. The online portal makes it easy to submit these requests and receive your replacement documents promptly, ensuring that your boat remains compliant and operational.
Do I Need to Renew My License or Registration?
Yes. A pleasure craft licence needs to be renewed every 10 years. Boat registration has to be renewed every five years. 

The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. makes it easy to achieve timely renewal and avoid any lapses in registration. Renewing your registration on time is essential to maintain compliance with Canadian regulations and avoid potential penalties.
Is There a Fee for Licensing or Registering a Vessel?
Yes, there are fees associated with licencing and registering a boat. The cost varies depending on the type of application, such as a new licence, registration, transfer of ownership, or replacement certificate. The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. provides a transparent fee structure on their online portal, allowing you to understand the costs before submitting your application. By offering clear pricing and guidance, the platform helps boat owners budget for these expenses and avoid unexpected costs.
Can I Use the Online Portal for All Vessel-Related Services?
The National Vessel Registry Center Corp.’s online portal is designed to handle a wide range of boat-related services, including licencing, registration, transfers, renewals, and replacements. 

The platform is user-friendly and ensures that all necessary documentation is submitted correctly, reducing the likelihood of delays or errors. 

Whether you are a first-time boat owner or an experienced mariner, the portal simplifies the process of managing your boat’s documentation, making it easier to stay compliant with Canadian regulations.
Do Canadian Pleasure Craft Have to Be Registered?
In Canada, not all pleasure craft are required to be registered. However, certain conditions make registration mandatory. If your pleasure craft is equipped with a motor of 10 horsepower (7.5 kilowatts) or more, it must be licenced. 

Registration becomes necessary if the boat is used for commercial purposes, financed with a marine mortgage, or intended for international travel. The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. provides a streamlined online process to help you determine whether your boat needs to be licenced or registered and assists you in completing the necessary steps.
What is a Canadian Pleasure Craft Licence?
A Canadian Pleasure Craft Licence is a unique identification number issued to recreational boats powered by a motor of 10 horsepower or more. This licence is not proof of ownership but serves as a way to identify your boat. The licence number must be displayed on the boat’s hull, and it is required for all pleasure craft used for recreational purposes. 

The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. offers an efficient online platform to apply for or renew your pleasure craft licence, ensuring compliance with Canadian regulations.
What is Canadian Boat Registration?
Canadian boat registration is a formal process that provides legal proof of ownership for a boat. Unlike a pleasure craft licence, registration is mandatory for boats used commercially, those with a marine mortgage, or boats traveling internationally. Registration assigns a unique official number and allows the boat to have a reserved name, which must be marked on the hull. 

The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. simplifies the registration process, guiding you through the required documentation and ensuring your application is submitted correctly.
How is a Pleasure Craft Licence Different From Registration?
A pleasure craft licence and boat registration serve different purposes and are required under different circumstances. A pleasure craft licence is a simple identification number for recreational boats, while registration is a more formal process that provides proof of ownership and is necessary for commercial boats, those with a marine mortgage, or boats traveling internationally. 

The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. helps you understand which option is appropriate for your boat and assists you in completing the necessary steps.
Can a Canadian Boat Have a Pleasure Craft Licence and Registration?
No. A Canadian boat cannot have both a pleasure craft licence and registration. If a boat is registered, it does not require a pleasure craft licence.

The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. can help you determine the correct documentation for your specific situation and ensure compliance with Canadian regulations.
What Does It Mean for a Canadian Boat to Be “Used Commercially?”
A Canadian boat is considered to be “used commercially” if it is operated for profit or business purposes. This includes boats used for fishing charters, sightseeing tours, transportation of goods or passengers, or any other revenue-generating activities. 

For example, yours isn’t a “commercial boat” if a friend gave you gas money for a trip, or something similar. Commercial boats must be registered, and the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. provides the necessary tools and guidance to complete the registration process.
What is a Maritime Mortgage?
A maritime mortgage is a loan secured against a boat, similar to a traditional mortgage on a property. If a boat is financed with a maritime mortgage, it must be registered with Transport Canada. 

Registration provides legal proof of ownership and ensures that the boat can be used as collateral for the loan. The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. assists boat owners in completing the registration process, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements. For example, you can use this form when you apply for a boat mortgage in Canada. 
What Does It Mean for a Canadian Boat to Have a “Reserved Name?”
When a boat is registered, it can be assigned a unique, reserved name. This name is officially recognized and must be marked on the hull of the boat. A reserved name cannot be used by any other registered boat in Canada. 
Who Can Own a Registered Canadian Boat?
Registered Canadian boats must be owned by Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or corporations incorporated under Canadian law. Proof of citizenship or residency is required during the registration process. 

The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. guides owners through the documentation process, ensuring all requirements are met.
What Do I Need to Sell a Boat I Registered?
If you sell a boat that is registered, you must notify the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. and provide proof that the sale occurred, and so forth. The new owner will need to apply for a transfer of ownership and update the boat’s registration. 

The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. simplifies this process, ensuring a smooth transition of ownership.
How Can the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. Help?
The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. is dedicated to making boat documentation simple and efficient. Our online portal provides a user-friendly platform for licencing, registering, and managing your boat’s documentation. 
Whether you need to apply for a pleasure craft licence, register a commercial boat, or transfer ownership, our team is here to assist you every step of the way. With transparent processes, timely reminders, and expert guidance, the National Vessel Registry Center Corp. ensures that your boat remains compliant with Canadian regulations.