How to Register a Boat

Submitting Your Boat Registration

1. 
   Get a boat registration application from the appropriate state agency. You're required to register your boat in the state where you keep it. States vary when it comes to the agencies that handle boat registration. Common state agencies that handle boat registration include the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Department of Fish and Game or the state agency specifically dedicated to managing waterways.^[2]

   1. You can pick up an application from the appropriate state agency in-person or download one from the agency's website.
   2. If you just bought a brand new boat, the dealer most likely will give you a boat registration application and tell you where to send it.
   3. You can also search online to find out which agency in the state where you park your boat handles registration.
2. 
   Fill out the boat registration application. Boat registration applications are detailed and ask for information such as your name and address. You have to state truthfully that you are the owner of the boat and attach proof of ownership. You also must provide details about what the boat is made out of as well as the hull identification number.^[3]

   1. On your boat registration application, be prepared to state truthfully that you have paid taxes on your boat.
3. 
   Gather your proof of ownership documents. You're required to show proof of ownership of your boat. A boat title in your name is the best proof of ownership, but if you don't have one, a bill of sale, which is basically a sales receipt for your boat, works fine. If you bought the boat and haven't yet paid off the owner, you can provide your sales contract as proof of ownership.^[4]

   1. Be prepared to show documentation of any loans you have on your boat as part of the registration process.
4. 
   Mail in the application, copies of supporting documents and fee. Boat registration fees vary widely among the states but are mostly affordable. In most cases, you can expect to pay less than $100 for the boat registration sticker and documents combined. You can drop off the application in person or send it to the appropriate state government agency by mail.^[5]

   1. Send your payment for initial registration by personal check, cashier's check or money order. Avoid sending cash.
   2. If you drop off your application in person, you might be able to pay with your credit card.
5. 
   Affix your registration number to your boat with paint or decals. When the state processes your boat registration, you'll get a registration number and a decal to put on your boat. With rare exceptions, you're required to display your registration number and the decals on both sides of the front half of your boat.^[6]

   1. You can purchase waterproof block letters at your local boating or home improvement store.
   2. It's a good idea to purchase waterproof paint and block letter and number stencils so that your registration number is in compliance and easy to read from a distance.
   3. Boat registrations usually expire after two years and must be renewed.