Free Vl 1 Form in PDF

Instructions on Writing Vl 1

Filling out the VL-1 form is a straightforward process that allows individuals in North Carolina to register and title their vessels. This form serves as the primary document to legally recognize the ownership and registration details of your vessel with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Ensuring that every section is accurately completed and that you have all the necessary attachments before submitting will streamline the process, making it quicker and smoother. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you fill out the VL-1 form accurately.

1. Begin by selecting the appropriate Transaction Type in Section 1. Check the box that corresponds to the registration and title option that fits your vessel's length, type, and whether you need a title.
2. In Section 2 – Proof Of Ownership, check the box that indicates the type of document you are submitting as proof of ownership (e.g., Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin, Dealer’s Bill of Sale, Original NC Title, etc.). Attach the required documentation.
3. If the vessel is homemade, complete Section 3 by attesting and notarizing the statement provided for homemade vessels. This includes providing the owner’s signature, the date, and notary information.
4. Section 4 requires the Vessel Number Information, including the Manufacturer’s Hull ID # and any existing registration or title numbers. A pencil tracing may be required for certain Hull ID numbers.
5. In Section 5 – Owner Information, fill in all the fields with the primary and, if applicable, secondary owner’s information. This includes names, contact information, addresses, and driver license numbers.
6. Section 6 – Vessel Information asks for detailed information about the vessel including year, make, model, exact length, and the county where the vessel will be taxed.
7. Provide Purchase Information in Section 7, including details about the seller, purchase price, and date of purchase.
8. If there is a lienholder, complete Section 8 – Lienholder Information with their details, including name, address, and telephone number.
9. Lastly, the form must be signed by the primary and secondary owner (if applicable) to certify that the information provided is true and correct. A signature from a duly authorized attorney may be needed if applying through power of attorney.

Once you have completed both sides of the form, attach any necessary documents and fees, then mail it to the address provided at the bottom of the form. Remember, incomplete applications or those without the required attachments will be returned. Taking your time to fill out the form accurately will help ensure a smooth process for registering and titling your vessel.

What does the VL-1 Form entail?

The VL-1 Form is a comprehensive application for the registration and titling of vessels in North Carolina. It requires applicants to provide detailed information about the vessel, including its type, size, use, and ownership, alongside the necessary fees. The form serves two main purposes: it registers the vessel with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and, if applicable, prepares the vessel for titling.

Who needs to complete the VL-1 Form?

Any individual or business seeking to register and possibly title a vessel in North Carolina must complete the VL-1 Form. This includes new registrations, renewals, and changes in ownership or vessel information. Specifically, titling is mandated for vessels 14 feet or longer, personal watercraft, or vessels with a lien against them.

What are the costs associated with the VL-1 Form?

The cost varies depending on the length of the vessel and the registration period chosen. For instance, registration for a vessel less than 26 feet with a title costs $70 for one year and $130 for three years. Larger vessels and those without a title have different fees. Additionally, a $30 titling fee is included where applicable, and all fees include an administrative surcharge mandated by NCGS 75A-5.2(c).

What documentation is required for proof of ownership?

Proof of ownership is mandatory and varies based on the vessel's history and origin. Documentation can include a Manufacturer's Statement of Origin, a dealer’s bill of sale, an original NC title, a notarized bill of sale, or out-of-state title and registration, among others. Absence of this documentation will result in the return of the application.

How are homemade vessels handled?

Homemade vessels, which are never before registered, require a special procedure detailed in Section 3 of the form. The applicant must certify the vessel as homemade in a statement that is then notarized and submitted along with the complete application to the NCWRC Headquarters for processing.

What information is needed about the vessel?

Detailed information about the vessel is required, including the manufacturer’s hull ID number, the vessel’s year, make, model, length, motors (if applicable), and the intended use of the vessel. Additionally, the county where the vessel will be taxed must also be specified.

Is there a provision for dealer or government entity registrations?

Yes, the form includes options for dealer registrations, which are used solely for demonstration purposes, and permanent registrations for government entities. These categories have distinct processes and fee structures detailed on the form.

What if more than two owners exist?

If a vessel is owned by more than two individuals or entities, a separate sheet with additional owner information must be attached to the application.

Can the application be mailed, and is there a charge for returned checks?

The complete application, alongside the appropriate fee and documentation, can be mailed to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. If a check is returned, a service charge of up to $25 may be applied according to G.S. 25-3-506.

What happens if my application is incomplete?

Incomplete applications, those missing necessary attachments or fees, or with illegible handwriting, will be returned. This necessitates verifying all sections are thoroughly and correctly filled out to avoid delays in processing.

Filling out the VL-1 Form for vessel registration and title in North Carolina requires attention to detail to avoid common mistakes. One frequent error is not choosing the correct transaction type in Section 1. Each transaction type has different requirements and fees based on the vessel's length and whether it needs a title, which can confuse applicants. This mistake can cause delays or the need to submit additional payments.

Another mistake lies in failing to provide proof of ownership as mandated in Section 2. Applications sent without the necessary documentation, such as the Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin, dealer's bill of sale, or previous title, are returned. This oversight can significantly delay the registration process.

Incorrectly completing the Homemade Vessel section (Section 3) for vessels built by the owner is also a common mistake. This section requires detailed information and a notarized statement, which applicants sometimes overlook. Many fail to realize that applications for homemade vessels must be processed in person or by mail at the NCWRC Headquarters.

Some applicants make errors in Section 4 by not accurately reporting the Manufacturer’s Hull ID number. Providing an incorrect number, or omitting it altogether when it’s applicable, can lead to processing delays. It is essential to include a pencil tracing if the Hull ID does not conform to standard formats.

A crucial yet often overlooked detail is providing accurate Owner Information in Section 5. Both primary and secondary owners must complete this section fully. Leaving out details, particularly the driver license number and mailing address, hinders communication and processing.

In Section 6, detailing Vessel Information correctly is pivotal. Errors in reporting the year, make, model, and especially the propulsion type and primary use, can affect registration. Applicants sometimes neglect to indicate the exact length of the vessel or the correct county for taxation, which is essential for proper documentation.

Incorrectly filling out the Lienholder Information in Section 8 is another typical mistake. This mistake can cause legal issues. It's vital to provide accurate information about any lien on the vessel, including the lienholder's name and contact information, to ensure all legal requirements are satisfied.

Lastly, failure to sign and date the application is a common yet easily avoidable mistake. A signature not only completes the form but also certifies that the information provided is correct. An unsigned application is considered incomplete and will be returned.

When applying for vessel registration and title through the VL-1 form, one navigates the initial step in a sequence of required procedures and paperwork necessary for legally owning and operating a vessel. This process safeguards your investment and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements. Below, you will find a curated list of other forms and documents that are often used in conjunction with the VL-1 form, each playing a vital role in the broader spectrum of vessel ownership and registration.

1. Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO): This document is crucial for newly manufactured vessels. It verifies the vessel's origin from the manufacturer, serving as the primary ownership document before the vessel is sold to the end user.
2. Dealer’s Bill of Sale: This document is provided by a dealer upon the sale of the vessel and serves as proof of the transaction. It includes important details such as the sale price and identification of the vessel.
3. Notarized Bill of Sale: For private sales, a notarized bill of sale confirms the transaction between individuals, including the terms and conditions of the sale.
4. Original NC Title or Out-of-State Title: If the vessel was previously registered or titled in North Carolina or another state, the original title must be submitted as proof of ownership.
5. Out-of-State Vessel Registration: For vessels previously registered outside of North Carolina, the out-of-state registration card is needed alongside a bill of sale if the state does not issue titles.
6. Certificate of Documentation: For vessels documented with the U.S. Coast Guard, this certificate is a federal form of registration and must be submitted for documented vessels.
7. Homemade Vessel Statement: This notarized statement is required for homemade vessels, declaring the vessel as homemade and providing details about its construction.
8. Proof of Identity and Residency: Owners must provide acceptable documentation to verify their identity and North Carolina residency as part of the application process.
9. Lien Release: If there was a lien on the vessel, a lien release document is necessary to prove that the lien has been satisfactorily settled.
10. Power of Attorney (if applicable): In cases where someone else is signing the application on the owner's behalf, a properly executed power of attorney must be attached, authorizing the individual to act for the owner.

Navigating through the process of registering and titling a vessel can seem complex due to the array of required documents. Understanding the purpose and necessity of each document can simplify the process, ensuring a smooth path to legal vessel ownership and operation. Taking care to gather and correctly fill out these associated documents, along with the VL-1 form, is crucial in successfully navigating regulatory requirements and protecting one's investment in marine adventures.

The VL-1 Form for vessel registration and title in North Carolina shares similarities with a Vehicle Title and Registration application used for motor vehicles. Just as the VL-1 Form requires detailed information about the vessel, including length, make, and hull identification number, a Vehicle Title and Registration form necessitates specific data about a vehicle such as make, model, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Both forms serve to establish legal ownership and are necessary for the operation of the vehicle or vessel in public domains. They also both include sections for lienholder information, evidencing any financial interests in the property.

Another document similar to the VL-1 Form is a Bill of Sale. This document is crucial when transferring ownership of property, including vessels and vehicles. Like the VL-1 Form, a Bill of Sale typically outlines the make, model, and identification number of the item being sold. It also includes the seller and buyer's information and the sale price. While the VL-1 Form requires a Bill of Sale for vessels not previously titled or registered, the essence is the same - both confirm a transaction between a buyer and a seller and serve as proof of ownership.

The Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) shares a close resemblance to the VL-1 Form in its purpose for vessels. The MSO is issued by the manufacturer to the first owner and lists the vessel's hull identification number, make, and year of manufacture, similar to the information required on the VL-1 Form. When a vessel is initially titled, the MSO is submitted along with the VL-1 Form to prove that the vessel is new and to establish the chain of ownership from manufacturer to first owner.

Finally, the Certificate of Documentation from the U.S. Coast Guard, required for certain vessels on the VL-1 Form, compares to a passport for international travel. This document serves as national registration of a vessel, allowing it to engage in commerce and travel in international waters, similar to how a passport identifies a citizen's nationality and allows for international travel. Both documents signify a level of legitimacy and authorization; the Certificate of Documentation enables a vessel to operate under the U.S. flag, while a passport allows a traveler the protection and the right to enter foreign countries.

When completing the VL-1 form for vessel registration and title application, it is important to follow a set of guidelines to ensure the process is done correctly and efficiently. Below are the dos and don’ts for filling out the VL-1 form.

• Complete both sides of the application thoroughly.
• Sign the application before returning it to the address listed at the bottom.
• Include all necessary attachments and the fee with your application.
• Ensure that your handwriting is legible.
• Provide proof of ownership by attaching the required documentation.
• Check the appropriate box under the "Transaction Type" based on your vessel's specifications.
• Include the Hull ID number if applicable, ensuring it contains the correct number of digits.
• Provide clear and complete owner information, including email and telephone numbers, if available.
• Include detailed vessel information such as year, make, model, and propulsion type.
• Accurately report the purchase information and lienholder details if applicable.

• Submit the form without checking that all sections are filled out.
• Forget to sign the form or have the owner’s signature notarized if it’s a homemade vessel.
• Leave out any attachments that prove ownership of the vessel.
• Use unclear or illegible handwriting, which could lead to delays in processing.
• Overlook the need to attach a copy of the Certificate of Documentation for U.S. Coast Guard documented vessels.
• Ignore the specific requirements for homemade vessels, which must be processed at NCWRC Headquarters.
• Fail to include the administrative surcharge in your payment.
• Omit additional owner information if more than two owners exist by not attaching a separate sheet.
• Provide incomplete or inaccurate information about the vessel’s primary use and propulsion type.
• Disregard the requirement to list any liens or encumbrances on the vessel.

There are several misconceptions about the VL-1 Form, which is used for North Carolina Vessel Registration & Title Application. Understanding these misconceptions can help ensure applicants complete the process efficiently and correctly.

• Misconception 1: Titling is optional for all vessels. Many believe that titling is an optional step for the ownership of all types of vessels. However, titling is mandatory for vessels 14 ft or longer, personal watercraft (i.e., jet skis), or those that carry a lien. This requirement is in place regardless of the vessel's size for these specific categories.
• Misconception 2: The VL-1 Form can be used for any vessel registration, regardless of its documentation status with the U.S. Coast Guard. This belief is incorrect because vessels documented with the U.S. Coast Guard may not be titled through this process. For these documented vessels, a copy of the Certificate of Documentation must accompany the application, and the application options differ based on the vessel's length.
• Misconception 3: Homemade vessels do not need a specific process for registration. Actually, homemade vessels have a unique requirement. They must be processed directly at NCWRC Headquarters by mail or in person. This ensures the homemade vessel has never been registered before and complies with state requirements.
• Misconception 4: The proof of ownership documentation is flexible. Some applicants think that the proof of ownership documentation is more of a formality than a strict requirement. However, the application must include specific documents like the Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin, dealer's Bill of Sale, or the original title from NC or another state. Without this documentation, the application will be returned.
• Misconception 5: The VL-1 Form doesn't require detailed owner information. There's a misunderstanding that the form does not need comprehensive owner details. In reality, the form requires specifics such as name, driver license number (for individuals), birth date, telephone number, email address, and both mailing and resident addresses. This detailed information is crucial for the registration and titling process.

Understanding these common misconceptions can help applicants correctly complete and submit the VL-1 Form, avoiding delays in their vessel registration and titling process.

Filling out the VL-1 form correctly is crucial for the swift processing of vessel registration and titling in North Carolina. The form encompasses several aspects, from personal ownership details to the specifics about the vessel itself. Understanding the key takeaways about this form can ensure accuracy and compliance with the state requirements. Below are some essential points to remember.

• Every section of the VL-1 form must be completed thoroughly. Incomplete applications, those without the necessary attachments or fees, or applications featuring illegible handwriting will be returned. This step ensures that all required information is clearly presented, avoiding delays in processing.
• Proof of ownership is mandatory and varies depending on the vessel's history and type. Acceptable documents include a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO), an original NC title (if the vessel was previously titled in NC), a notarized bill of sale, or a Certificate of Documentation for U.S. Coast Guard documented vessels, among others. The correct documentation must accompany the application to verify ownership.
• Titling is a prerequisite for all vessels that are 14 feet or longer, personal watercraft, or vessels with a lien. The titling fee is included in the registration fees listed on the form. Ensuring your vessel meets these criteria and is appropriately titled is fundamental for legal operation.
• Special provisions are noted for homemade vessels and dealer registrations. Homemade vessels have specific requirements, including a signed and notarized statement, and dealer registrations, intended only for demonstration purposes, do not qualify for titling. These specialized categories follow unique guidelines directly related to their designation.
• The application must be mailed with the appropriate documentation and fee to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC). Payments must be made via check or money order, and transactions are finalized only after the payment has been successfully processed, highlighting the importance of accurate and timely financial submissions.

Understanding and adhering to these essentials when filling out the VL-1 form can streamline the registration and titling process of vessels in North Carolina. Accurate completion and provision of necessary documentation ensure compliance with state guidelines, facilitate legal use of watercraft, and contribute to the protection and sustainability of the state's water resources.