Summer has arrived, which means boat owners in New Jersey will be rushing to lakes, bays, and the Atlantic Ocean to enjoy their marine vessel. However, you might be asking if you need to insurance your boat. The solution is a little more complicated.
Before you can even contemplate insuring your boat in New Jersey, you must first register it. A boat must be registered if it is used for more than 180 days. If you rent, lease, or maintain property for boat storage, you must also register your boat. All boats more than 12 feet in length must be titled at a Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) Agency in order to use New Jersey’s waterways. Aside from those severe requirements, yacht insurance is not required in New Jersey. You may still buy it, though. You might be wondering why you should get boat insurance.
What is required on a boat in NJ?
- All boats 16 feet or longer, save canoes and kayaks: Each person on board should have one wearable (Type I, II, III, or V) and one throwable (Type IV) life jacket.
- All other boats shorter than 16 feet in length, including canoes and kayaks of any length: One I, II, III, or V PFD for each person on board. Operating a vessel without every child 12 years of age or younger on board wearing a Type I, II, III, or V Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device is an infringement punishable by a fine of up to $250 under state law (life jacket).
- the captain of a ship on which every youngster under the age of 13 is confined to an enclosed cabin. Inflatable PFDs – In 1996, the United States Coast Guard approved inflatable PFDs.
- Only a few brands have been certified by the US Coast Guard, and others are only for adults. The proper use of inflatable PFDs, including age limits, varies depending on the manufacturer. Before purchasing an inflatable PFD, thoroughly read the owner’s handbook and information leaflet. While automatic inflation is not necessary, inflatables must have both manual (pull) and oral (blow) inflation mechanisms at a least.
Is boat insurance a legal requirement?
Although boat insurance isn’t required by law on all waterways, the high value of boats and the risk of accident make it a risk not to have it. In addition, if you want to use a marina’s facilities, you’ll need at least third-party insurance.
If you plan on transporting your new boat to its mooring position by road, make sure you have boat insurance in place first. Any previous owner’s insurance does not cover you, and while your auto insurance may cover your boat while you’re on the road, there are sometimes limitations based on the length of your boat.
It’s a good idea to get some training if you’re a new boat owner. Reputable insurers prefer you to demonstrate that you’ve attained a specific degree of expertise, either via years of experience or by completing a course, such as one offered by the Royal Yachting Association.
Do boat trailers need insurance in NJ?
Trailers are owned by residents of the Garden State for a number of reasons, both business and personal. Recreational vehicles, boats, labor equipment, and cattle can all be transported with them. Residents of New Jersey must register their trailers with the Department of Motor Vehicles, but they are not required to have liability insurance. Regardless, if you want to protect your possessions and income, you need get a trailer insurance policy.
An independent insurance agent from our network can assist you in finding a trailer insurance coverage. These independent agents can assist you in determining your coverage requirements, answering any insurance-related questions you may have, and providing you with a wide range of competitively priced plans from which to pick. To learn more, contact a local member agency, and you can begin comparing New Jersey trailer insurance prices right away.
Do you have to register a boat with a trolling motor in NJ?
Vessels with less than 1 horsepower, vessels with 12 volt electric trolling motors, and vessels 12 feet or longer with less than 10 total horsepower are free from the licensing requirement.
Out-of-state citizens who have completed a boat safety course and have documented proof of completion are exempt from the boat license requirement.
Do I need a boat license in NJ?
Motorboat and personal watercraft licenses are issued by the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) for usage on fresh, non-tidal waters such as lakes, creeks, and rivers that are not impacted by tidal conditions. To operate a motorized vessel or personal watercraft – jet ski or wave runner – on non-tidal waterways of New Jersey, you’ll need a boat license and a New Jersey Boat Safety Certificate. Non-powered watercraft do not require a boat license.
To operate a power watercraft on tidal waterways in New Jersey, you must complete a boating safety course recognized by the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) and acquire a New JerseyBoating Safety Course Certificate. For further information, go to the NJSPMarine Service Bureau website.
You must be at least 16 years old to participate. If you are under the age of 17, you must produce a letter signed by your parent or guardian.
American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, checks, money orders, and cash are all accepted at the MVC.
Following the methods outlined above for obtaining the original license, a license can be renewed.
How to title and register a boat
All boats must be titled and registered in order to use New Jersey’s waterways, with the exception of:
- Those who are not based in New Jersey or have been in operation for less than 180 days.
- Non-motorized boats that are only used on private property’s small lakes and ponds.
- Surfboards, racing shells, dinghies, canoes, and kayaks are examples of non-motorized inflatables.
- Tender/dinghy used primarily for direct transit from a ship to the shore.
*You will not receive a title if your boat is smaller than 12 feet in length or if it is not documented by the US Coast Guard.
How to get an initial boat title and registration
A $25 penalty applies if a boat is not titled within 10 working days of acquisition.
- Fill out the Universal Title Application (Form OS/SS-UTA) and the Boat Registration Application (Form OS/SS-UTA) (BA-51)
- Provide a correctly assigned Manufacturers Certificate of Ownership (MCO), title, or proof of ownership from the seller (their registration) together with a notarized bill of sale if coming from a state that does not issue titles (Documentedvessels see separate instructions below.)
- Provide the lien holder’s name and address if the boat is financed. (All lien holders in New Jersey are required to have an Entity Identification Number, formerly known as a corp code.) The lien holder will receive the original title.
How to title and register a homemade boat
Visit a motorvehicle agency with required identity (NJ Driver’s License, Non-Driver ID, Passport, or Birth Certificate) and the following documents to title and/or register a homemade boat:
- The NJ State Police, Marine Division, completed a “HIN Investigation Report” form OS/SS-10A (available exclusively at motor vehicle agencies).
How to register a Documented Vessel
Vessel documentation is a type of registration that is used across the country. Documentation proves nationality for international reasons, allows unrestricted trade between nations, and allows vessels to participate in some limited trades, such as coastwise trade and fisheries. With the exception of specific oil spill response vessels, a vessel must weigh at least five net tons and be completely owned by a US citizen in order to be documented.
- A Certificate of Documentation will be granted to a vessel that has been documented by the United States Coast Guard (USCG).
- The documented vessel must be registered in New Jersey if it is used in New Jersey waters for more than 180 days OR if the owner leases, owns, maintains, or rents space in New Jersey for storage, mooring, or maintaining the vessel on a non-transient basis. NJ titles are not given to documented vessels.
- Proper identification (New Jersey driver’s license, non-driver ID, passport, or birth certificate) is required.
- The USCG will issue a Certificate of Documentation (if the customer intends to keep the vessel documented) or deletion documents (if the new owner does not intend to keep the vessel documented).
**Boats with documentation do not acquire a New Jersey title. Transferring ownership, recording liens, and/or changing the state of record for a vessel all need fees.
What size boat requires a license in NJ?
Registration of Boats in New Jersey All boats over 12 feet in length must be titled at a Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) Agency in order to use New Jersey’s waterways. All boats with titles must be registered. Furthermore, regardless of length, all motorized vessels must be registered.
Can you drink on a boat in NJ?
There are plenty of journalists who wouldn’t mind spending a picture-perfect work day on the water, so the State Police took advantage of the chance to remind people that if you’re drunk and operate a boat, you’re going up the river to jail.
“One of the things that most people don’t realize is that if you’re convicted of operating a boat while intoxicated in New Jersey, you’ll lose both your driving and boating licenses,” said Sgt. Christopher Jones.
However, because drinking while boating is theoretically allowed, the message is difficult to spread.
“Obviously, you can’t drive around the state’s roadways with a beer or a cocktail in your hand, but you can do so behind the wheel of your boat on the state’s waterways. Obviously, as long as you’re not impaired, I’m not going to advise you to do that. And the legal limit is.08, which is the same as it is on the roads,” Jones explained.
“All you have to do now is be responsible. There are a lot of folks drinking out here. Many people use excessive amounts of alcohol. When you’re out here on your own, you have to keep an eye out for the other guy. It’s still one of the places where you can drink and operate a boat, and you can, but you have to be responsible and safe,” Kenilworth boater Pete Bessett said.
However, drinking is only one of the hazards that can be found on the water. Taking risks, not paying attention, and diving into water you’re unfamiliar with can all lead to disaster.
Wearing your life jacket is the most important safety precaution you can take. The boat operator is required to carry a life jacket on board for each occupant, but you are not required to wear one by state law.
According to the State Police, roughly six people drown each year as a result of not wearing a lift vest. As you can see, few people nowadays believe it is vital.
“They’ll toss them at the dogs, but they won’t toss them at themselves. “I mean, if you think more highly of your dog than you do of yourself, what will your dog think if you’re not there to care for it?” Jones wondered.
The message from the State Police is to drink responsibly and wear a life jacket this weekend to avoid hazardous seas.
What size boat can I register in NJ?
With the exception of a ship’s lifeboat, canoe, kayak, inflatable, surfboard, rowing scull, racing shell, and tender/dinghy intended for direct transfer between a vessel and shore for no other reason, all boats over 12 feet in length must be titled for use on New Jersey waterways.
Do you need yacht insurance?
There is no federal law in the United States that requires all sailboats to be insured. Â Most states do not need sailboat insurance, unlike vehicle insurance. Â Arkansas and Utah are the only two states that require boat insurance as of 2019. Surprisingly, Utah and Arkansas both have few navigable waterways (with the exception of the Mississippi and Arkansas rivers), and rivers aren’t the best area for sailing vessels anyhow. Â You’re unlikely to buy a full-size sailboat in either of those states, but if you do, you’ll be required to insure it.
There is no necessity to insure your yacht throughout the remainder of the country. While it may appear to be a great way to save a few dollars, the legal ramifications of an accident can be devastating. Â Even if it was an accident, you would most likely be held liable for any damage caused by your boat. Boat repair can be quite costly, and it only takes a small amount of damage to inflict significant harm. That isn’t to suggest you won’t have an accident; many seasoned sailors go their entire lives without having one. The point is that you’ll want to be covered if something unforeseen happens, regardless of how or who is to blame.
Insurance isn’t just for personal injury or property damage. The environment is protected by federal law in every state. Remember that if your boat sinks in a protected area, you are responsible for preventing (and, in some situations, correcting) environmental harm. Additionally, you may be responsible for the cleanup of fuel and chemical leaks. Â Someone will have to pull you out if you run aground or become stuck in a congested area. Â Towing services are costly, and you will be responsible for paying whoever comes to your rescue. Â It becomes significantly more dangerous if you collide with a commercial vessel. An insurance policy can cover the costs of emergency transportation as well as environmental cleaning. You could be forced against your will into an item or aground if a negligent speedboat disregards a âno wakeâ sign. Â Collisions with docks, buoys, and other marine infrastructure can cost thousands of dollars to repair, and they aren’t always your fault.