Title Law Takes Effect For Boats Requirement Should Help Deter Thefts, Aid Law Enforcement

Idaho boaters who buy new vessels this year must shell out $8 for a title.

A new law requires all boats or personal watercraft purchased after Jan. 1 be titled.

The law protects owners from buying stolen boats, helps law enforcement track stolen boats and protects banks and other lenders, state officials say.

The law was spurred by the Idaho State Independent Automotive Dealer Association, representing used car and boat dealers, said Kim Jensen, a spokeswoman for the Idaho Transportation Department.

“When somebody trades in for a newer boat, there’s no proof they own it,” Jensen said. “Anybody can go in and pay the registration. The title shows they own it.”

People can purchase titles at county assessor’s offices or the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Titling legislation was presented to the Legislature four times, according to Jensen. Many states, including Washington, already require boat titles.

Boat dealers say the new title regulation isn’t going to make waves.

“It’s just a little bit more paperwork,” said Kathy Reid, title clerk at the Coeur d’Alene Honda Superstore. “We knew this was coming.”

Reid said the new policy should help deter boat thefts. But it’s also a money-maker for the state: “Absolutely. Isn’t it always?”

Boat owners are required to title certain types of boats, model year 2000 or newer, acquired on or after Jan. 1. Boat owners have the option of titling boats purchased before that date, but it is not required. Nonmotorized boats and outboard motorboats, 12 feet in length or less, cannot be titled.

No estimates were available on anticipated revenue to the state.

There are nearly 85,000 motorized boats registered in North Idaho.