Other Facts About Titling and Registering Your Vessel

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

• You must obtain a title for all outboard motors, just as you would for a vessel. Battery-operated trolling motors are an exception.
• A Certificate of Number is valid for two years. You will receive a renewal notice about three months prior to the expiration date. The expiration date is on the certificate and the decals.
• If you have changed your address within those two years, you must call or write Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) within 15 days of your change of address in order to get your renewal notice.
• If you abandon or destroy your vessel, you must report it to TPWD within 20 days and surrender your Certificate of Number and your title if applicable.
• If you lose or destroy your Certificate of Number, you must complete a PWD 143 form and submit a processing fee to get a replacement.
• To apply for a Certificate of Number and decals for a homemade vessel, you must submit the following, in addition to completed application forms and required fees:
  • An affidavit regarding the origin of the vessel and receipts for the materials used in its construction
  • Proof of an inspection and certification by a Texas game warden
• Larger recreational vessels owned by U.S. citizens may (at the option of the owner) be documented by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). Call the USCG at 1-800-799-8362 for more information. Documented vessels also must be registered with TPWD. Call TPWD at 1-800-262-8755 for more information.