Back registration fees

[Kent Rogers]

Can anyone tell me if (in California) when you buy a boat that has not been registered for some years do you owe the unregistered years when you do the transfer paperwork.

 

[ThomW]

Can anyone tell me if (in California) when you buy a boat that has not been registered for some years do you owe the unregistered years when you do the transfer paperwork.

In CA I believe the new owner is responsible for the penalties or fees for however many years it was not registered. Unless the previous owner received the Cert. of Non-Operation prior to the lapse of registration. Depending on how many years it sat, your penalty will vary.
I have heard many people get fess of close to $1,000! They often will register it out of state, wait a few months and then transfer registration to CA to avoid the fees.

 

[GA_Boater]

Instead of guessing or assuming, I would talk to the CA people that take your money to get the right answer.

 

[Kent Rogers]

Thanks both of you. I will go by DMV (and take a number) if it becomes "need to know". I tried using their phone inquiry never could speak to a human. Was told leave my number they would call sometime. Missed their call.....back to square one.