Registering and titling your Cajo: state-by-state primer

This is the high-level primer for U.S. registration and titling on Cajo kayaks. The honest short answer: a paddle-only or pedal-only Cajo is exempt from registration in most states. Add a motor — including an electric trolling motor — and you're usually registering, sometimes titling.

We can't keep a 50-state matrix current (rules change every legislative session), so this article covers what you need to know to call your state's boating agency and ask the right questions. Each state's rules are different. The U.S. Coast Guard publishes a state-by-state boat registration list — start there.

Step 1: Find your HIN

The HIN (Hull Identification Number) is your boat's VIN. It's a 12-character code etched into the hull. On a Cajo:

• Rigid kayaks (Outpost 100, Outpost 128, Terra 116): etched into the stern, starboard side (back of the boat, right side as you sit in it facing forward).
• Highlander inflatables (100, 120, 140T): the HIN is on a fixed plate near the stern, also typically starboard side.

For exact location detail: Hull serial number (HIN) location.

The HIN starts with the manufacturer code (CAJO), followed by the serial number, model year, and certification year. Your state will ask for it on the registration form.

Step 2: Figure out if your state requires registration

Paddle-only or pedal-only Cajos

In most states, a kayak that's propelled only by paddle or human-powered pedal drive (like the Traverse) is exempt from registration. You can paddle without a sticker.

States where this is the rule (non-exhaustive — confirm before you launch):

• Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, Texas, most of the Southeast
• California, Oregon, Washington (paddle-only)
• New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts (paddle-only)
• Most other states for non-motorized vessels

A few states are stricter and require registration of all boats over a certain length, regardless of propulsion:

• Iowa, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania (some districts), Illinois — confirm with your state. Some require registration of any boat over 16 feet, which catches the Highlander 140T.

Cajos with a trolling motor (or any motor)

If you add a motor — even a tiny electric trolling motor — almost every state requires registration. Many also require titling.

Common triggers:

• Any electric trolling motor (Bixpy, Newport, Minn-Kota, MotorGuide) — almost always triggers registration
• Any gas outboard (we don't recommend; see the gas outboard article) — always triggers
• Some states base requirements on horsepower or thrust equivalent — a 30 lb-thrust motor may be below the threshold in one state and above it in another

States with strict trolling-motor rules

• Minnesota — registers and titles all motorized vessels, including kayaks with trolling motors.
• Florida — registers any vessel with a motor regardless of size.
• Iowa — requires registration of all kayaks plus motorized vessels.
• California, Washington, Oregon — register motorized vessels; rules vary.

Don't trust any list dated more than a year old. State legislatures change these rules frequently. Call your state's boating agency before you assume.

Step 3: What an MSO is and when you need one

The Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO) is the document that proves Cajo built the boat and sold it to the first owner (or dealer). Some states require an MSO to title the boat, especially for motorized vessels.

Do I have an MSO?

• Direct purchase from caminojourney.com — your order confirmation + invoice serves as proof of purchase. If your state wants an MSO specifically, email support with your HIN and we can issue one.
• Dealer purchase — your dealer typically provides the MSO at delivery, similar to how a car dealer provides a vehicle MSO. Ask your dealer.
• Second-hand purchase — the title (if your state titles kayaks) transfers from the previous owner. If there's no title and no MSO, your state may require an affidavit of ownership. Call them.

States that commonly require an MSO

• Minnesota (motorized)
• Iowa
• Texas (for titled vessels)
• Florida (for motorized)
• Pennsylvania (for motorized)

Check with your state before you assume.

Step 4: How registration usually works

Generic flow (varies by state):

1. Get the registration form from your state's boating agency website (often Department of Natural Resources, Department of Wildlife, or DMV depending on state).
2. Fill in your HIN, model name, year, length, and propulsion type.
3. Attach your bill of sale (and MSO if required).
4. Pay the fee — usually $20-$60 for a multi-year registration.
5. Receive your registration sticker(s) — typically two stickers to apply to both sides of the bow.
6. Apply the stickers per state rules — usually a few inches behind the bow, both sides, with the registration number painted or applied as decals.

Some states also require annual renewals; others issue 2-3 year registrations.

Step 5: Trolling motor titling specifics

If you're adding a trolling motor and your state requires titling:

• The title is typically issued for the kayak itself, with the motor noted as accessory equipment.
• Some states title the motor separately (this is rarer).
• Buy your motor from a dealer who provides documentation — Bixpy, Newport, MotorGuide, Minn-Kota all provide serial numbers and proof of sale that title agents accept.

What we ship with the boat

A Cajo arrives with:

• The HIN etched on the hull
• An invoice (for direct purchases) or dealer paperwork (for dealer purchases)
• Brand book + product manuals
• Spare parts kit
• Drive + accessories per your order

We do not include an MSO by default because most owners (paddle/pedal-only) don't need one. If your state requires it, ping support with your HIN and we'll generate one.

Things we can't help with

• State-specific forms. Your state's website is the source of truth — we can't keep up with all 50 sets of rules.
• Title transfer between owners. That's between you, the previous owner, and your state.
• Sales tax registration. That's a state-by-state DMV/DOR question, not a Cajo question.
• Out-of-country registration. International rules are way outside what we can help with — check with your country's maritime authority.

When you call your state

Have ready:

• Your HIN
• Cajo model name + year
• Boat length (Outpost 100: 10', Outpost 128: 12'8", Terra 116: 11'6", Highlander 100: 10', Highlander 120: 12', Highlander 140T: 14')
• Whether the boat has a motor (yes/no, type, thrust)
• Your address (registration is tied to your state of residence)

Ask:

1. Do I need to register this kayak as-configured (with or without my planned motor)?
2. If yes, do I also need to title it?
3. What documentation do you require from the manufacturer? (MSO, bill of sale, both)
4. What's the fee and the renewal cycle?
5. Where on the boat do the stickers go?

Related links

• Hull serial number (HIN) location
• Trolling motor buyer's guide: Cajo edition
• What to expect after you place your order
• Cajo User Care