Quick Reference

Registration and Titling

The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission offers various services to vessel owners to promote safety, establish ownership, and ultimately support the public's enjoyment of water sports and recreation. This site provides information about vessel registration and titling requirements, fees and frequently asked questions.

Renew a vessel registration using one of the following options:


  • Online using a VISA or MasterCard .
    Printer recommended.
  • By telephone at 800-628-3773, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • In person, at select  wildlife service agents.

Frequently Asked Registration and Titling Questions  (PDF)

Customer Service


Need assistance with vessel registration and titling? Contact customer service by phone at 800-628-3773 or by email at vessels@ncwildlife.org. Customer service is available Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Did you purchase your vessel from another state? You may owe "use" tax.

If your vessel was purchased from a dealer outside of North Carolina who is not required to collect N.C. tax, you may owe use tax on your vessel. It is the vessel owner's responsibility to remit any applicable amount of use tax due on the purchase of a vessel from another state. For more information, call the N.C. Department of Revenue at 877-252-3052 or visit http://www.dor.state.nc.us/.

Brochure:
Use Tax Information for Newly Registered Boats(PDF)