In the realm of nautical adventures within Alabama, the introduction of a new vessel titling law marks a significant milestone for boat owners and enthusiasts. It's essential to grasp the nuances of this regulation to ensure smooth sailing ahead. This guide aims to provide a quick yet detailed overview of what the new law entails, specifically focusing on the process of titling the hull of a vessel, while also clarifying that outboard motors and boat trailers fall outside the scope of this legislation.

Understanding the Scope: What's Included?

First and foremost, it's critical to note that the law solely applies to the hull of the vessel. This means outboard motors and boat trailers do not require titling under this new regulation in Alabama. The focus is purely on the main body of your watercraft.

Qualification Criteria: Is Your Vessel Eligible?

Determining whether your vessel qualifies for titling is straightforward with a simple examination of the Hull Identification Number (HIN). The key lies in the last four digits of the HIN, which reveal the following:

• The 9th digit (a letter) indicates the month of manufacture.
• The 10th digit (a number) shows the last digit of the year of manufacture. For a vessel to be eligible, it must be manufactured in 2024 or later, except for vessels 26 ft or longer, where the manufacture date is not a factor.
• The 11th and 12th digits signify the model year of the vessel.

Moreover, vessels under 18 ft in length are only titled if they are powered by an engine of 75 horsepower or greater.

Examples to Guide You:

• TII86321A424: Manufactured in January 2024, eligible for titling.
• BDF19953B424: Manufactured in February 2024, qualifies for titling.
• BUJ25947L324: Manufactured in December 2023, not eligible unless the vessel is 26 ft or longer.
• BUJ88349K324: Manufactured in November 2023, follows the same criteria as above.

The Titling Process: Essential Documents

Upon determining your vessel's eligibility, the following documents are indispensable for your title application packet:

1. Title application, duly signed and dated by both the customer and the designated agent.
2. Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO), marked as "Surrendered." It's imperative that title reassignment is meticulously completed on the back of the MSO.
3. Bill of Sale.
4. Any additional supporting documents as necessary, such as a power of attorney or correction affidavit.

Failure to include the correct documentation or providing incomplete information will result in your application being returned for corrections.

Additional Resources and Information:

For further inquiries and details regarding vessel titling and more, the Alabama Motor Vehicle Division's FAQ section offers a wealth of information. Additionally, the responsibilities and requirements for Designated Agents are outlined in the Administrative Rules available on the Revenue Department’s website.

Exploring these resources will equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate the new titling law successfully, ensuring your boating adventures in Alabama are both enjoyable and compliant with state regulations.