Other Facts About Titling and Registering Your Vessel

Here are some additional facts about registering and titling your vessel.

• A Certificate of Number is valid for three years from the date of issue. The registration must be renewed within 60 days of the expiration date.
• If you change your address, you must write the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) within 15 days of the change.
• If your numbered vessel is sold, lost, destroyed, or abandoned, you must report it to the LDWF within 15 days. If your numbered vessel is stolen, you must report it to the LDWF within 5 days.
• If you lose or destroy your Certificate of Number or decal, you must apply to the LDWF for a duplicate and submit a processing fee within 15 days of the loss.
• Vessels registered in another state or country may operate on Louisiana waters for 90 consecutive days before Louisiana registration and numbering is required.
• Registration application and renewal forms plus title forms can be obtained from:
  • The Boat Registration Office of the LDWF
  • LDWF’s website
  • Many marine dealers
  • Any LDWF district office
• Larger recreational vessels owned by U.S. citizens may (at the option of the owner) be documented by the USCG. Call the USCG’s Documentation Center at 1-800-799-8362 for more information.