Boat owners can now help support conservation efforts in Alabama when renewing their boat registration. First made available in 2018, the purchase of a distinctive registration identification sticker for their vessels provides boaters the opportunity to help financially support certain college and university programs as well as state parks, the Forever Wild program, and freshwater fisheries conservation in Alabama.
The distinctive identification sticker, which is displayed on the bow of the vessel, is similar to the personalized license plate program for motorcycles, cars, and trucks. The stickers are 4 ½ inches by 28 ¼ inches, display the vessel’s registration number, and can be issued with a variety of Alabama university and college logos or feature one of three Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) designs including Alabama State Parks, Freshwater Fishing, and the Forever Wild Land Trust. However, unlike the car tag program, the sticker cannot be personalized.
The cost of the distinctive identification sticker for boats is $50 in addition to the regular vessel registration and county issuance fee. For each sticker sold, $20 is allocated to ADCNR for the operation of Alabama’s state parks. When purchasing one of the three ADCNR-themed stickers, that amount increases to $40 with the additional $20 being allocated to State Parks, Forever Wild or the ADCNR Fisheries Section, depending on which sticker is purchased.
The distinctive identification sticker fee applies each year one is purchased. Available from probate offices throughout the state (either in person or online), the sticker is valid for one year from the date of purchase. Once purchased, the distinctive identification sticker is printed and mailed to the vessel owner usually arriving within one to two weeks. A new sticker will be issued for each year the registration is renewed.
For more information about the availability of the distinctive vessel identification stickers, contact your local probate office.
In addition to renewing their boat registration, boaters are reminded to always practice safety on the water including wearing a lifejacket. For more safe boating tips, visit www.safeboatingcampaign.com.
The distinctive vessel identification sticker program is administered by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA). ALEA’s mission is to efficiently provide quality service, protection and safety for the State of Alabama through the utilization of consolidated law enforcement, investigative and support services. Learn more at www.alea.gov.
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through four divisions: Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR, visit www.outdooralabama.com.
