Georgia Online Help System

Start Your Online Vessel Registration Application Here

To begin your registration application, please enter your vessel Hull Identification Number (HIN) or Georgia Registration Number (If the vessel was previously registered in the State of Georgia) Please note: In order to register your vessel, you will be required to provide proof of ownership documents (such as a Bill of Sale / Registration Card / Manufacturers Statement of Origin (MSO) To view required documents based on your vessel sale type or download registration forms (such as an Affidavit of Vessel Ownership Form or Sample Bill of Sale), click here: http://georgiawildlife.com/boating/registration

Vessel Identification Form (This Page)

The Vessel Identification form allows you to locate your vessel with the Hull Identification Number, Georgia Registration Number, or the United States Guard (USCG) Document Number. At least one identifier is required to submit a complete application. If you do not have the required identification, you can click on the Continue(Submit) button to proceed and receive further instructions later.

What is a Hull Identification Number (HIN)?

The Hull Identification Number (HIN) is a 12 or 14 character serial number that uniquely identifies a boat. The HIN is analogous to a VIN on a car. All boats manufactured or imported on or after November 1, 1972, must bear a HIN, and this HIN must be identified during the boat registration process. Vessels manufactured or imported before 1972 are EXEMPT because they often do not have a HIN. For more information on locating your HIN, click here: http://georgiawildlife.com/boating/registration#hin

How Do I Get a Hull Identification Number (HIN)?

Boat owners should use every effort to determine if a boat has an existing HIN or resolve problems with a HIN for use in the registration process. If the HIN cannot be found or problems cannot be resolved, a Vessel/HIN inspection is necessary. DNR will assign a HIN number after the inspection process has been completed and will notify you in writing of the HIN assigned. The registration process must be initiated and paid for before an inspection can be scheduled.

Vessel/HIN Inspection

A Vessel/HIN Inspection is necessary when boat owners do not have a valid Hull Identification Number on the vessel, or if there are questions about the HIN that cannot be resolved by the DNR Service Desk, or for other reasons specified on a case by case basis.

Vessel/HIN Inspection Requirements

  • Customers must have initiated the registration process (paid for a registration) before a Vessel/HIN Inspection can be scheduled or performed.
  • Vessel/HIN Inspections are conducted at the vessels location by Regional DNR Officers.
  • BOAT OWNERS (not a friend or other family member) should provide all documents and correspondence at the inspection location that relate to the boat, boat purchase, or registration process that may be helpful during the Vessel/HIN Inspection to support registration.
  • Although boats manufactured before November 1, 1972 are not required to have a HIN, DNR will assign a HIN to an older vessel if desired and the boat is registered. Having a HIN will make your registration more secure, your vessel less susceptible to theft, and easier to recover if it were stolen.

    If having difficulties registering a vessel online, please contact the DNR Service Desk at (800) 366-2661 for assistance.