Owning a boat in sunny Broward County is a dream come true for many Florida residents. But whether you’re cruising the Intracoastal or fishing off the coast, it’s important to make sure your paperwork is in order, especially when it comes to your vessel title and registration.
At Auto Tags of East Broward, we help boat owners throughout Pompano Beach, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs, and surrounding areas understand the difference between these two essential documents. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Florida Vessel Title?
A vessel title proves legal ownership of a boat, much like a car title does for a vehicle. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), any motorized boat over 16 feet in length must be titled, unless it is documented through the U.S. Coast Guard.
If you’re buying a boat, you must transfer the title into your name within 30 days or face potential fines. You’ll need the original title signed by the seller, a bill of sale, and proof of ID.
💡 Want help with a title transfer? Visit our Vessel Services Page to learn how we can assist.
What Is Vessel Registration?
Vessel registration, on the other hand, allows your boat to legally operate on Florida waterways. This is handled through the county tax collector or licensed tag agencies like ours. You’ll receive a registration decal that must be displayed on your hull.
Registration must be renewed annually or biennially, and you’ll need:
- Proof of title
- Valid ID
- Payment for registration fees (based on vessel length)
Key Differences at a Glance
| Title | Registration |
| Proves ownership | Legalizes operation |
| One-time (until sale) | Must be renewed |
| Required for transfer/sale | Required for use on water |
Why It Matters
Failure to properly title or register your boat in Florida can result in:
🚫 Fines from FWC (Florida Fish & Wildlife Commission)
🚫 Denial of insurance claims
🚫 Trouble when reselling or docking at marinas
Need Help? Auto Tags of East Broward Makes It Easy
Our team provides stress-free vessel title and registration services for new owners, seasonal residents, and long-time Broward boaters.
We offer:
✅ Title transfers
✅ Duplicate titles
✅ Registration renewals
✅ Fast, DMV-free service
📍 Serving all of Broward County, including Coconut Creek, Margate, and Lighthouse Point.
Auto Tags of East Broward is your best choice of service provider to get your car assessed for the right title – contact us to get your car title in Florida! There’s no point in wasting your time at the East Broward DMV when you can stop by East Broward Auto Tags today. We offer everything you need regarding East Broward tag renewals and East Broward tag and title services. We are a premier East Broward tag agency. Stop by today, call us, or check out our website. We also have an online renewals page here.
Check out these other great resources to learn more about the basics of getting a replacement car title:
Resource 1 | Resource 2 | Resource 3
