Registration of Watercraft Trailer Dealers
Registration (Va. Code)
Va. Code §§ 46.2-1992.6, 46.2-1992.17 and 46.2.1992.55
If you sell watercraft, are licensed by the Department of Game and Island Fisheries, and sell only trailers specifically designed for watercraft, you may elect to register with DMV, rather than being licensed by DMV as a trailer dealer.
If you sell any type of trailers other than watercraft trailers, then the dealership must be licensed by DMV as a trailer dealer.
Please note that is is unlawful for any person to engage in business in the Commonwealth of Virginia as a watercraft trailer dealer or salesperson without first obtaining a license as provided for by the Virginia Code sections referenced above.
Registration Process
To obtain a Virginia Certificate of Dealer Registration to sell only watercraft trailers, you must:
- Hold a valid Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) Dealer License and include a photocopy of that license with your initial or renewal application for registration.
- Complete the application for a Watercraft Trailer Dealer Certificate of Registration (Form DSD-15).
- Complete the Application for Dealer/Drive Away/Office Trailer Plates (Form DSD-9). If you are a franchised trailer dealer, please submit proof of franchise for the issuance of franchise dealer plates.
Registration Fees for One Year
The fee for the Virginia Certificate of Registration (DSD 15) is $50. The Certificate of Registration will expire concurrently with your DGIF license.
The fee for the first two trailer dealer license plates is $30. The cost of the third and any subsequent plate is $13 each.
Additional Information
For watercraft dealer licensing information, please contact the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.