Washington State Boat Registration Database Search
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Introduction
Oct 25, 2023 - The Washington State boat registration search lookup database is administered by the Department of Licensing (DOL). Boat title and registration records are integrated into its motor vehicle system which is accessible to owners and certain entitled parties. The following information will provide some insights on how to go about obtaining boat title and registration data in the State of Washington.
Privacy Restrictions
Washington State restricts access to its boat registration records under provisions of the Federal Driver's Privacy Protection Act (DPPA)(WikiTags). Although written for vehicles, it has been adopted to cover titled and registered boats. This means that such data is only available to the owner and certain qualified parties as defined by the DPPA and related state regulations.
Online Access
Boat title and registration searches in Washington State are available trough its online public record portal (WikiTags). However, this is restricted to the owner, an authorized representative(WikiTags) and certain entitled parties under the DPPA (WikiTags). The interface is fairly straight forward and contains additional information about the usage of this service.
Online access to boat title and registration records in Washington State is also available to qualified businesses under contractual arrangements (WikiLinks).
Telephone Access
The Washington DOL may confirm the presence of a hull identification number in their system or verify a registration certificate in hand. However, it will not likely provide any further details, especially as related to ownership data. DOL contact information is available in WikiLinks.
Boat Record Request Form
In addition to online and telephone access, a boat record requester may use the Boat Record Request Form (WikiLinks). This can be submitted by mail and contains full instructions and contact information. This service is free to the general public although a small fee is required of businesses.
Historical Records
Historical and archived boat registration records are available from the Washington State Department of Licensing in conjunction with the records access information provided in this page. Boat records are not maintained indefinitely in the database system, therefore, you will need to contact the DOL in order to address such concerns.
Bulk Records
Boat title and registration records are available as bulk downloads to certain qualified entities. See the WikiLinks for qualifications and further information.
Nationwide System
The Washington State subscribes to the Vessel Identification System (WikiTags) which is administered by the U.S. Coast Guard. This is a nationwide database wherein most states contribute boat registration data in real-time. Access is only available, however, to law enforcement agencies and other governmental institutions. Anyone concerned about a boat that may have been stolen, abandoned, involved in an incident or is being utilized for illicit activities in state jurisdictional areas should contact a local enforcement agency or boat registration office.
Conclusion
The information provided herein has been obtained from various sources and is subject to change without notice. Any such concerns should be addressed with the respective government agency.
Credits and References
Oct 25, 2023 - Page revised.
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