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Category: Boat

How do I obtain an antique boat decal, and how much does one cost?

This answer has been viewed 2026 times and was last updated on 08/05/2019.

For a boat to be considered antique, it must:

1. Be at least 30 years old.
2. Be used for non-commercial purposes.
3. Be powered by its original type power plant.
4. Have an assigned FL/DO number and a current registration. (If it is expired, you can renew through our online registration renewal service.)

If all of the criteria is met, the boat is eligible for an antique boat decal.

Next, a properly completed antique vessel registration certification form must be submitted and signed by the owner or a licensed marine surveyor certifying that the boat meets the definition of an antique boat. Once the form is complete, you will need to mail it along with a copy of your current boat registration to the address listed on the form. (There is no charge for an antique decal.)

The antique decal will be mailed to you from Tallahassee upon acceptance of your application. Once an antique decal is issued to a boat, it remains current for the life of the boat, provided the boat continues to conform to the definition of an antique boat.

However, you are still required to renew the registration annually (or biennially) and display an unexpired decal in addition to the antique decal. You can conduct a local business search (online or via the phone book or yellow pages) for the phone numbers of local marine surveyors or call the Marine Patrol at (888) 404-3922 for assistance.

Not a Manatee County resident? Out-of-county residents needing to process title and/or registration transactions for vehicles, boats, and mobile homes can only be served at First Manatee South County Tag Agency, located at 5756 14th Street West, Bradenton. For details on that location, including the services available, read our First Manatee South County Tag Agency FAQ.

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