Lawton City in the state of Oklahoma requires that all boats in an operational condition that ply on its waters be registered, with a few exceptions. You should also register any outboard motor exceeding ten horsepower. Here are guidelines on how and where to register your boat, as well as exceptions and additional information relevant to the process.
Oklahoma completes all its boat registration and title processes at the Oklahoma Tax Commission's offices. It is also the office to visit if you need any information about what you need to operate watercrafts and other water vessels in the state.
Before you submit your registration application, ensure that you have all your proper documents. These include proof of ownership such as your manufacturer's certificate of origin, transfer documents if it was a second-hand purchase and any registration documents if you are relocating from another state where you had already registered.
The charges, which include the registration fee, boat title fee and excise tax vary depending on the size, period of registration and other factors. You have the option to register your boat for a year or three, and the state will send you a renewal notice before the next expiration date. You can also opt to complete the process in person, through your email or with an agency.
The registration period runs from the first day of July through the last day of June the following year. If you are an active military personnel, the state grants special rates under the same guidelines as those that outline car registration for them.
Exceptions to the boat registration and titling rule in Oklahoma include any oars- or paddle-propelled boats, a visiting boat whose user will be in Oklahoma for less than 60 days, all government, state or municipality-owned boat as well as those that belong to the US Coast Guard unit. The state also exempts vessels that are in the state for a racing event, commercial floating devices and lifeboats from this rule.
If you lose or damage your boat's certificate of title or registration decals, you can request a duplicate. You will need to complete an affidavit for a replacement license and fill an application form for the same. You will also require your Oklahoma registration card, a valid form of identification and the necessary fees. Keeping a copy of your certificates can help you find relevant information faster if you lose the originals.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol's Marine Enforcement requires that any 12- to 15-years-olds hold a boating safety certificate to operate certain boats. These include personal watercrafts, boats with greater than ten horsepower and sailboats 16 feet or longer. The state also requires them to complete a boating safety education class successfully.
The state of Oklahoma also requires that you adhere to safety and operational rules. If you fail to do so, they can revoke your certificate. Like other states, the U.S. Coast Guard and government Power Squadrons offer educational courses for boat owners and operators. You can complete these courses for insights on laws and regulations, violations and safety, insurance, registration, buying and selling, among others. It is your responsibility as a boat owner to stay abreast of new boating legislations, safety measures and your responsibilities on the waters.
Motor vehicle and boat registration processes can be easy or extremely time-consuming depending on how much information you have. Companies such as Motor Vehicle Tag Agency in Lawton have garnered enough experience to assure you a fast and accurate experience, and you get professional services. Visit their website for expert advice and to schedule an appointment.
