Why Boat Owners Choose Tags Clinic for Vessel Registration
Same-Day Processing
Get your tags and registration card printed on-site, without delays.
DMV-Authorized Partner
We’re licensed and authorized by the California DMV to handle renewals, issue plates, tags, and more.
Multilingual Customer Support
Spanish, Arabic, and other language support available for a smoother experience.
Support for All Vessel Types
Boats, jet skis, sailboats, and other personal watercraft.
Expert Help With Complex Cases
Out-of-state boats, inherited vessels, and missing titles.
Central San Diego Location
Visit us at 3845 University Ave with free parking and easy access.
Book Your Boat Registration Appointment
Walk-ins welcome, but appointments ensure priority service.
Booking Steps
- Choose a convenient time slot
- Receive instant email and text confirmation
- Arrive for expedited processing
What is Boat Registration & Title Transfer?
Boat registration and title transfer is required when buying, selling, or relocating a vessel in California. This includes both recreational boats and certain watercraft. The process establishes ownership and allows for legal operation on California waterways.
When Do You Need a Boat Title Transfer?
- You’ve purchased a used boat
- You’re transferring ownership of a vessel
- You moved to California with a titled boat
- You’re correcting ownership or lienholder information
What You Need for Boat Registration & Title Transfer
Required Documents:
- California or out-of-state boat title (signed by seller if applicable)
- Bill of Sale (highly recommended)
- Hull Identification Number (HIN)
- Valid photo ID
- Proof of payment (if purchased recently)
- Completed BOAT 101 or REG 343 form (we'll help complete this on-site)
If Applicable:
• REG 227 – For lost title • REG 256 – For family/gift transfers or tax exemptions • Smog and insurance NOT required for boat registration
Common Title Transfer Scenarios
- Private party boat sales
- Used jet ski or PWC transfers
- Family or gifted watercraft transfers
- Inherited or deceased owner vessel transfers
- Out-of-state boats moved to California
- Missing or duplicate boat title issues
• Boats and watercraft must display a CF number
• Registration is valid for 2 years
• DMV issues a Certificate of Number (registration card) and decals
• Display your CF number and stickers on both sides of the forward hull
We'll walk you through proper registration, display placement, and compliance tips.
Fees vary depending on:
• Vessel length
• Type of watercraft (e.g., sailboat vs. motorized)
• County of residence
• Sales/use tax (based on purchase price)
• Duplicate title or CF number issuance (if applicable)
Tags Clinic will provide a full estimate before submission—no surprise fees.
Watch: How to Register or Transfer a Boat in California
Coming soon — A step-by-step video walkthrough showing how to transfer or register your boat with the help of Tags Clinic.
Customer Testimonials
I bought a jet ski from a friend and had no idea how the DMV worked. Tags Clinic got me my CF numbers and decals in under 30 minutes.
Smooth process and great staff. They handled my out-of-state sailboat transfer like pros.
Cities We Serve Within 50 Miles of San Diego
Tags Clinic proudly provides dealership and fleet DMV services across Southern California, including:
We’re located at 3845 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105—convenient for clients across the region.
Request a Boat Title or Registration Quote
We’ll send you a checklist and price estimate based on your vessel and situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Register or Transfer Today
Tags Clinic makes your register or transfer fast, legal, and stress-free, saving you time and hassle.
- Walk In: Stop by during business hours
- Book Online: Reserve your spot quickly
- Call Now: (619) 777-9046
- Request a Quote: Submit details online
We’re here to help you get it done — the same day.
Contact Us
- Monday–Friday: 9 AM – 7 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 6 PM