Here is the problem in California. If the boat has not been registered in 12 years, the registration has fallen out of the system. It can't be brought back to life. I once bought a boat that was 4 years behind in registration. It cost me $800 in fees to register.If that boat is not in the DMV system, it can be registered with the DMV after a grand total of 3 minutes at the counter. The trailer, however, will require CHP VIN verification and/or an ID number plate assigned before going to DMV.
LO