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Boat Registration Tips
When you sell a watercraft, make sure you transfer the registration to the new owner, even if the decals are expired. When you buy a watercraft, make sure you ask the previous owner for the registration, as well as the Title, Statement of Origin, or notarized Bill of Sale, depending on the size and type of watercraft.
FAQ :

Q: What vessels are required to have a registration?

A: If it's used in Ohio waters and it has a serial #, it needs a registration. (Yes, even an inflatable raft with oars.) Owners of homemade vessels must apply for a serial # first, then obtain a registration.

Q: If my vessel's registration is already in my name, and my decal is expired, what do I need to do?

A: The quickest way to get your decals is to bring your mail-renewal from the State (don't separate the copies). If any information on the form is incorrect, or you don't have a mail-in form, take your most recently expired registration to the Indian Lake State Park Office.
Q: If I bought a used watercraft, what do I need to get a registration in my name?

A: Untitled vessels require a Statement of Origin, Dealer Invoice or Notarized Bill of Sale, showing the same information as a title. For titled vessels, the title is required. If you can't wait for the title to be issued, take proof of purchase/ownership. All vessels must be registered before using them on Ohio waters. Ohio now requires a 45-day temporary registration until the title is obtained, after which a permanent registration is issued.

Q: If I bought a used watercraft, what do I need to get a registration in my name?

A: The same paperwork is required as a new vessel, except you also bring the previous registration. The OH# is transfered instead of assigning a new one (the OH# stays with the vessel, not with the person). If the vessel is from out of Ohio a new OH# is assigned.

Q: If the decal isn't expired, do I just wait to transfer the registration?

A: No... The registration should be transferred to you immediately. The ODNR and other agencies often rely on the OH# to identify the vessel's owner(s), for example, if it has been stolen and recovered.

Q: What if I don't have the mail-in renewal form or the previous registration showing the OH#?

A: Take your proof of ownership (type of proof will depend on size and type of watercraft), and get the 8-digit OH# from the hull.

Q: What if I lost my registration and/or decals? 

A: The ODNR can issue duplicates. You can pick up a form and mail it to Columbus, or visit the Indian Lake State Park Office..