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California Department of Motor Vehicles
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Application Requirements for a Vessel Agent License

Purpose

The purpose of this page is to assist the prospective vessel agent by describing the requirements to become a vessel agent.

What is a Vessel Agent?

A "vessel agent" is any individual who offers to sell or register watercraft capable of being used as a means of transportation on the water, except as listed in California Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 9840 (1) - (3) .


Background Investigation

A background investigation is conducted on all applicants.  Failure to disclose any and all convictions may result in the refusal or denial of your acting as a vessel agent.  The department may refuse to issue an approval to any applicant who has been convicted of a crime or committed any act or engaged in any conduct involving moral turpitude which is substantially related to the qualifications or duties of the licensed activity. A conviction based on plea of nolo contendere is a conviction within the meaning of this section.  CVC Section 11703 .  Persons previously working under a license issued by DMV, which was revoked or suspended for cause may also be denied a license.  In addition, the California Code of Regulations (CCR) and other sections of the California Vehicle Code provide guidelines used by the department in determining whether a license should be issued. CCR, Title 13, Chapter 1.


Requirements for a Vessel Agent

Every applicant who desires to issue DMV boat stickers will be required to file an application with the Department of Motor Vehicles.  


Click on the following links for the fees, forms and additional information related to the Vessel Agent's Application.

Vessel Agent License application forms.

Vessel Agent Frequently Asked Questions.