TX Boaters with USCG Documentation
 

Just got this from a fellow Power Squadron member. It seems the state has figured out they can get some money by dinging us documented vessels for registration fees now. :hothead:

Please be aware of the following changes in the new Water Safety Act Digest:

"Effective January 1, 2004, vessels documented by the U.S. Coast Guard are no longer exempt from state registration requirements.
Exempted vessels: Documented commercial vessels used in coastal shipping; and documented vessels exceeding 115 feet in length. Documented recreational vessels, shrimp boats and other commercial fishing boats are not exempt from state registration, unless they exceed 115 feet in length.
The (Texas) certificate of number must also be aboard USCG Documented vessels that require Texas registration. USCG Documented Vessels: May display ONLY the Validation Decal (not the Registration Number) on both sides of the bow of the vessel and maintain current USCG Documentation; OR Display the state assigned TX numbers and the Validation Decal."

Pretty standard in most states. In Ohio it's like $60-70 for three years, less than 30 minutes of fuel. Having a state registration sticker keeps (or at least minimizes) the local morons from pulling you over for not having numbers on the boat...

Thats what Im sweating out now!!! The documentation process takes several months to to get the certificate and they wont issue me a registration without the certificate. So Im dodging the marine units so I don`t have to hassle with the explanation. Everyone has there own interpretation on what the law says about no numbers visable.

I just have a state registration sticker with a port of call on the transom...no problems. Keep your sales receipt with you and the application for USCG registration. Typically you have 45 days but you can get a letter from the lender stating the application has been filed. Depending on the cop this usually works...