FEBRUARY 24, 2005

With the start of the boating season just weeks away, Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land today encouraged residents to take advantage of the convenience and timesavings provided by online watercraft registration renewal.

Owners of boats, including personal watercraft, may renew online at www.Michigan.gov/sos beginning March 1. Registration decals are mailed within 10 days.

The Web-based program allows residents to renew from their homes or offices anytime of the day or night. Watercraft registrations may also be renewed by touch-tone telephone, mail or at a branch office. Internet and touch-tone renewal options are available through Aug. 31.

"It’s easy to save time by renewing online," said Land, who oversees the registration and titling of more than a million watercraft. "That way you can spend time on your boat, not in line. Watercraft renewal is just one of many convenient online customer services provided by the Department of State."

All watercraft on Michigan waters, including privately owned lakes and waterways, must be registered except:

— Watercraft 16 feet or less, propelled by oars or paddles, and not used for rental or commercial purposes

— Nonmotorized canoes and kayaks not used for rental or commercial purposes

— Rafts, surfboards, sailboards and swim floats, regardless of length

— Watercraft registered in another state and used only temporarily in Michigan

The notices include instructions for renewing online, along with a personal identification number needed to use the system. Payment is by VISA, MasterCard or Discover credit cards. Nearly 300,000 renewal notices will be mailed this year.

Residents will also find information about ordering a Great Lakes Protection Fund decal with their renewal notice. The colorful decal costs $35. It is decorative only and not required for watercraft registration or identification purposes. Proceeds from sales will help fund research and education to control invasive species, such as zebra mussels, in the Great Lakes and other Michigan waters. This special decal may also be purchased online at www.michigan.gov/michiganestore using a VISA or MasterCard credit card.