The Best Place To Display Your Boat's Registration Year

Boat registration is a legal requirement, much like registering a car. The specific rules and guidelines depend on the location, but generally, boats with motors or engines must be registered. Sailboats without auxiliary power may also need to be registered if they are over a certain size. The registration number is like a boat's license plate and must be displayed on the hull, near the bow, on the front third of the boat, on both sides. The registration authority will also provide a validation sticker to show that the registration is valid for that year, which should be placed within a few inches of the registration number.

Registration requirements vary by state

Boat registration requirements do vary by state, so it's important to check the specific requirements for your state. In general, boats must be registered in their state if they have a gasoline, diesel, or electric motor, including a trolling motor. Personal watercraft (PWCs) are considered motorized crafts and must be registered in most states.

Some states may require an unpowered boat permit for using canoes, kayaks, sailboats, etc. at state-owned facilities. Federally documented vessels are usually exempt from state registration requirements. These are large vessels used on navigable waters, documented through the US Coast Guard.

Most states require boats to be registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles, but this can vary. In some cases, it may be with the Department of Fish and Game, the Department of Licensing, or the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Registration fees vary by state and vessel size. The registration authority should automatically send a renewal form and bill when it's time to renew.

Alabama

Alabama boat registration laws are found in § 33-5-9 of the 2016 Alabama Code. Registration numbers are required for all vessels on the waters in Alabama, including sailboats. All other boats that are not powered by motors are exempt from registration laws.

Alaska

Alaska boat registration laws are found in section 05.25.053 of the 2016 Alaska Statutes. Undocumented boats in Alaska must be registered in the state. Vessels that do not need to be registered include non-motorized boats and handmade, non-motorized umiaq boats with a walrus or seal skin covering.

Arizona

Arizona boating registration laws can be found in Title 5-321 of the 2016 Arizona Revised Statutes. As with most states, registration numbers are required for all motorized watercraft. Vessels documented with the US Coast Guard do not need to be registered.

Arkansas

Arkansa boating registration laws can be found in § 27-101-301 of the 2015 Arkansa Code. All watercraft must be registered and have the corresponding registration number displayed on both sides of the bow. This includes all boats propelled by a sail or motor.

California

California boating registration laws can be found in Title 13 § 190.00 of the California Code of Regulations. State law explains that all watercraft must be registered with the state. Vessels used on private lakes and waterways must also be registered. Watercraft that are exempt from registering include vessels that are only propelled with oars or paddles, non-motorized sailboats less than 8 feet in length, and surfboards propelled by a sail with a mast held upright by the user.

Colorado

Colorado boat registration laws are set forth in the Colorado Revised Statutes. Section 33-13-103 explains the necessity for vessels to display registration numbers; all vessels with motors and sailboats must be registered and display numbers. Vessels that do not need to be registered include canoes, kayaks, non-motorized rafts (owner's name and address must be displayed on these vessels), vessels with a valid marine document issued by the United States, vessels registered within another state that have been in Colorado for less than 60 consecutive days, and vessels from another country that are temporarily using the waters of the state.

Connecticut

The boat registration laws of Connecticut are outlined in Sec. 15-142, and Sec. 15-144 of the Connecticut Revised Statutes. Registration is necessary for all vessels used on the waters within the state, except those that are less than 19 ½ feet in length and not a motorboat, and any vessel that is propelled only by oar or paddle.

Delaware

Delaware boat registration laws can be found in Title 23 Chapter 21 of the Delaware Code. Registration numbers are required to be displayed on all motorized vessels. Vessels that do not need to be registered include vessels owned by the state and vessels from another country that are temporarily using the waters of the state.

Florida

Florida boating regulations are outlined in section 328.48 of the 2016 Florida Statutes. All motorized vessels must be registered through your local tax collector’s office. Vessels that are exempt from registering include non-motor-powered vessels less than 16 feet, non-motorized canoes, kayaks, racing shells, and rowing sculls, and vessels that are stored, used, or operated on private lakes and ponds.

Georgia

Laws regarding Georgia boat registration can be found in § 52-7 of the 2015 Georgia Code. All motorized vessels are required to register with the state. Vessels that do not need to be registered include non-motorized vessels, sailboats less than 12 feet in length, vessels used exclusively on private ponds or lakes, vessels documented with the US Coast Guard, vessels from another country temporarily using the waters of the state, and vessels exclusively used for racing.

Hawaii

Hawaii boat registration requirements are explained on the Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation website. All motorized, undocumented vessels must be registered with the state. Vessels that do not need to be registered include boats that are manually propelled, vessels propelled only by sail that are eight feet in length or less, vessels documented with the US Coast Guard, foreign vessels and vessels from another state in Hawaii waters for less than 60 consecutive days.

Idaho

Idaho boat registration laws are set forth in the 2016 Idaho Statutes. Sections 67-7008 and 67-7009 outline the requirements and exemptions for the numbering of vessels. All motorized watercraft must be registered with the state. Vessels that are exempt from registering include non-motorized vessels, a vessel’s lifeboat, vessel’s owned and operated by the United States, and a vessel from another country using the waters of the state for less than 61 days.

Illinois

Illinois boating registration laws can be found in the Illinois Boat Registration and Safety Act (found in 625 Illinois Compiled Statutes 45). The law states that every watercraft other than non-powered watercraft on waters within the jurisdiction of this State shall be numbered. The numbers shall be displayed on each side of the bow of the vessel.

Indiana

Indiana boat registration laws can be found in the 2016 Indiana Code. Section 9-31-3 outlines registration requirements and exemptions for the state. All sailboats and motorboats must register with the state. Vessels that do not need to be registered include canoes, rowboats, paddleboats, vessels from another country temporarily using the waters of the state, watercraft registered in another state that has been in Indiana for less than 60 consecutive days, and watercraft moored in the Indiana portion of Lake Michigan for no more than 180 consecutive days.

Iowa

Iowa boat registration laws are located in section 571-38 the 2016 Iowa Administrative Code. The state requires watercraft to be registered through the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Vessels that do not need to be included are inflatable vessels that are 7 feet or less in length and non-motorized canoes and kayaks that are 13 feet or less in length.

Kansas

Kansas boat registration laws are outlined in section 32-11 of the 2014 Kansas Statutes. Registration numbers must be displayed on the forward top half of the boat. Numbers need to be at least three inches in height and be block characters, with the color contrasting with the background color of the boat.

Kentucky

Kentucky boat registration laws are outlined in chapter 235 of the 2016 Kentucky Revised Statutes. Like with most states, Kentucky requires the displaying of the registration number on both sides of the forward half of the vessel.

Louisiana

Louisiana boat registration laws are outlined in §851.20 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes. The law states that the owner shall paint on or attach to each side of the bow of the motorboat or sailboat the certificate of number in such a manner as may be prescribed by rules and regulations of the department in order that it may be clearly visible. The number on the motorboat or sailboat shall be maintained in legible condition.

Maine

Maine boat registration requirements are listed on the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife (IFW) website. All motorboats of any size must be registered within the state. Exceptions to this include non-motorized canoes and kayaks, vessels owned by the US Government, watercraft with a valid registration from another state that has been in Maine for less than 60 consecutive days, motorboats from another country which are not in Maine for over 60 consecutive days, and motorboats used exclusively for racing purposes that displays a valid boat number issued by the racing association.

Maryland

Maryland boat registration laws are found in the 2016 Code of Maryland. Displaying registration numbers is outlined in §8–712 of the code. Numbers must be displayed on all vessels that are equipped with a motor for propulsion.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts boat registration laws are found in the Massachusetts General Laws. Chapter 90B Section 3 outlines the necessity for displaying registration numbers on vessels. All motorized watercraft must be registered through the Massachusetts Department of Energy and Environmental Affairs.

Michigan

Michigan boat registration laws are set forth in Section 324.80124 of the Michigan Compiled Laws. Registration and numbering are required for all motorized vessels, and vessels that are 16 feet or longer. Those that do not need to be registered include watercraft 16 feet or shorter that are propelled by oars or paddles, and not used for rental or commercial purposes, non-motorized canoes and kayaks not used for rental or commercial purposes, rafts, surfboards, sailboards, swim floats, vessels registered in another state that temporarily use the waters of the state, vessels owned and operated by the US Government, and watercraft that are registered must display registration numbers on the forward half of each side of the bow in block, bold letters that are no less than three inches in height.

Minnesota

Minnesota boat registration laws are set forth in the 2016 Minnesota Statutes. The display of registration numbers can be found in section 86B.301 of the statutes. As with most states, Minnesota requires numbers to be displayed on both sides of the forward half of the bow of motorized watercraft.

Mississippi

Mississippi boat registration laws are located in Title 59 Chapter 21 of the 2015 Mississippi Code. Registration is required for all motorized vessels and sailboats that are not documented with the US Coast Guard. Vessels that do not need to be registered include watercraft used specifically for racing, vessels documented with the US Coast Guard, foreign vessels temporarily in Mississippi waters, and a ship’s lifeboat(s).

Missouri

Missouri boat registration law are detailed in the 2017 Missouri Code of State Regulations. Section 10-23.270 outlines the necessity for displaying registration numbers on watercraft. Boat registration numbers are referred to as “MO” numbers and are to be attached to the forward half of the vessel so that it is clearly visible. Numbers must be in block letters and no less than three inches in height. The MO number must contrast with the background of the vessel.

Montana

Montana boat registration laws are explained in the 2015 Montana Code Annotated. The requirement for displaying registration is found in section 23-2-512. Registration numbers (referred to as an identifying number) must be displayed on all sailboats that are 12 feet or longer, motorboats, and personal watercraft.

Nebraska

Nebraska boat registration laws are detailed in the Nebraska Revised Statutes. Section 37-1211 sets forth the requirements for displaying registration numbers on your vessel. All vessels that are propelled using a motor or mechanical device over public and private waters of the state must be registered.

Nevada

Nevada boat registration laws are found in the 2015 Nevada Revised Statutes. Section 488.965 outlines the operation of watercraft with a proper registration number displayed. All motorboats, including personal watercraft, must be numbered according to Nevada law.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire boat registration laws are outlined in Chapter 270-E of the New Hampshire Statutes. Registration is required for all vessels with an inboard and outboard motor. Vessels that are exempt from registration include sailboats under 12 feet in length not powered by a motor, rowboats, and canoes that are not powered by motors, vessels registered in another state or country that are temporarily using the waters for less than 30 consecutive days, and vessels owned by the US Government.

New Jersey

New Jersey boat registration laws are found in the 2016 New Jersey Revised Statutes. Sections 12:7-34.38 and 12:7-34.39 set forth the requirements for operating a motorized vessel or personal watercraft on state waters with registration numbers displayed.

New Mexico

New Mexico boat registration laws are found in the 2016 New Mexico Statutes. Section 66-12 contains the regulations regarding registering and numbering your vessel. Sailboats that are 10 feet in length or longer and all motorboats must be registered.

New York

New York boat registration laws and requirements are found on the New York DMV website. Boats that use a motor (no matter the size of the motor or boat) must be registered with the state. Boats that are exempt from registering include watercraft without motors, boats registered in another state that in New York for less than 90 consecutive days, boats used in racing competition, and boats documented with the US Coast Guard must be registered through the state; registration stickers will be provided by the state to place on the your vessel instead of registration numbers.

North Carolina

North Carolina Boat registration requirements are outlined in chapter 75A of the North Carolina General Statutes. Registration numbers are required on all motorized vessels – including jet skis – used on public waters, as well as sailboats that are more than 14 feet in length.

North Dakota

North Dakota boat registration laws are set forth in Chapter 20.1-13 of the North Dakota Century Code. Registration is required for all motorboats that operate in North Dakota except a motorboat owned by the United States and a motorboat from a foreign country that is temporarily using the waters of the state.

Ohio

Ohio boat registration laws are detailed in the Ohio Revised Code. Sections 1547.53 and 1547.531 contain the requirements and exemptions for displaying registration numbers. All watercraft that operate on state waters must display registration numbers except for canoes, rowboats, and inflatable watercraft (must apply for alternative registration), kiteboards, paddleboards, belly boats (float tubes), vessels documented by the US Coast Guard, vessels from another country temporarily using the waters of the state, and canoes, rowboats and inflatable watercraft must display the 3”x6” decal on the port and starboard bow (provided for by the state instead of registration numbers).

Oklahoma

Oklahoma boat registration laws and requirements can be found on the Oklahoma Tax Commission website. All boats within the state are required to register, except non-motorized canoes and kayaks, and vessels from another state or country that have been in the state less than 60 days in one calendar year.

Oregon

Oregon boat registration laws are found in Chapter 830 of the 2015 Oregon Revised Statutes. Sections 830.770 and 830.780 outline the rules surrounding the display of registration numbers on your vessel. All motorized boats, including jet skis and personal watercraft must display registration numbers. Boats that do not need to be registered include non-motorized vessels, boats documented with the US Coast Guard, boats marked as a livery boat, and vessels that are required to paint or display numbers must do so in block characters that are no less than three inches in height to allow for clear identification.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania boat registration laws are outlined in the Pennsylvania Code. Requirements for displaying numbering on vessels is found in § 93.5 of the Code. Any boat powered by motor, vessels documented by the US Coast Guard, and sailboats that use motors for auxiliary power must be registered.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island boat registration laws are found in the Rhode Island General Laws. Requirements for numbering motorboats is found in § 46-22-4 and § 46-22-6 of the General Laws. The displaying of registration numbers is required for all motorized watercraft. Vessels that are exempt include rowboats that are 12 feet in length or less, motorboats that are owned by the United States, and vessels from another country that are temporarily using the waters of the state.

South Carolina

South Carolina boat registration laws are explained in the 2016 South Carolina Code of Laws. Section 50-23-310 is where the requirements for numbering vessels are outlined. All watercraft are required to be registered and titled except the following: vessels documented with the US Coast Guard, watercraft propelled solely by human power using oars or paddles, outboard motors with less than 5 horsepower are not required to be titled, vessels from another country temporarily using the waters of the state, and vessels owned by the United States.

South Dakota

South Dakota boat registration laws are located in Chapter 32-3A of the South Dakota Codified Law. Registration numbers must be displayed on all motorized vessels. All non-motorized vessels that are over 12 feet in length must display validation stickers, but registration numbers are optional for these types of vessels. Vessels that do not need to be registered include non-motorized vessels that are less than 12 feet in length, a racing boat competing in a boat race approved by the state government, boats owned by the US Government, and boats with a temporary license owned or operated by a person participating in a fishing tournament that has been permitted by the Department of Game, Fish and Parks.

Tennessee

Tennessee boat registration laws are found in the 2015 Tennessee Code. Section 69-9-206 outlines the regulations and exemptions for displaying registration numbers on your vessel. All vessels propelled by machinery or sail must register within the state

Registration numbers must be displayed on the hull

Boat registration is required by law and the rules and guidelines for this process depend on where the vessel will operate. Generally, boats must be registered in their state if they have a gasoline, diesel, or electric motor.

Boat registration numbers are like a boat's license plate and must be displayed on the hull, near the bow, on the front third of the boat, on both sides. The letters and numbers must be read from left to right and are usually around 3 inches tall. The numbers can be bought from hardware stores or painted on.

The registration numbers must be displayed in such a way that they are clearly visible and easily readable. The colour of the letters and numbers must contrast with the colour of the hull. For example, black letters and numbers on a white hull. The numbers should be block letters, not script, and there should be spaces or hyphens between numerals and letters. For example, MD 1234 AB or MD-1234-AB.

In addition to the registration number, boats will also have a Hull Identification Number (HIN). This is a 12-digit serial number that indicates the boat manufacturer, its serial number, and the month and year of production. The HIN is usually located on the upper right portion of the vessel's transom.

Registration stickers must be placed near the registration numbers

Registration stickers are a crucial aspect of boat ownership, serving as proof of valid registration. These stickers are typically issued annually or biennially, depending on the state, and must be displayed properly to avoid fines and legal repercussions. Here are some detailed instructions and guidelines for placing registration stickers near the registration numbers on your boat:

Placement Guidelines:

Adhering the Stickers:

When applying the registration stickers, use a level and blue painter's tape to create a straight line for alignment. This ensures that the stickers are neatly and evenly applied. Make sure the stickers are securely attached and cannot be easily removed or fall off.

Maintaining Readability:

It is essential that your registration stickers remain clearly visible at all times. Avoid placing any other numbers, letters, or devices near the stickers, except for the vessel registration number and any required additional stickers, such as the Mussel Fee sticker for boats in California.

Renewing Stickers:

Remember to renew your registration stickers before they expire. In some states, such as California, you must renew your boat registration every odd-numbered year. Keep track of the expiration date and apply for renewal to ensure your registration remains valid.

State-Specific Requirements:

When placing your registration stickers, be sure to check your state's specific requirements. For example, some states mandate that the current sticker be placed within six inches before or after the boat numbers on the port side. Additionally, some states may have specific guidelines for the spacing, colour, and arrangement of the registration numbers and stickers.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your registration stickers are properly placed, visible, and compliant with the relevant regulations. This will help you avoid any legal issues and allow you to confidently enjoy your boat on the water.

Hull Identification Number (HIN) must be permanently affixed

The Hull Identification Number (HIN) is a unique 12-character serial number assigned to boats manufactured since 1972. It is used to identify and register boats, much like a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for automobiles. The HIN includes three letters, a five-character serial number, and the month and year of production.

The primary HIN location is typically on the starboard outer side of the boat's transom, above the waterline, and within two inches of the top of the transom, gunwale, or hull/deck joint, whichever is lowest. For outboard-powered boats, the HIN is often on the starboard side of the hull, under the gunwale, ensuring visibility even with the engine tilted up. Inboard-powered boats may have the HIN stamped into the fibreglass or imprinted on a metal plate fastened to the hull near the engine compartment.

The secondary HIN location can vary and is usually placed in an unexposed area inside the boat. It serves as a backup for verification, security, and theft prevention in case the primary HIN is altered, damaged, or obscured. The secondary HIN may be found inside the engine compartment, on the motor mount bracket, under a fitting or hardware, or even under the battery tray or a seat cushion.

Both HIN locations are essential for verifying the boat's authenticity and obtaining accurate information about its manufacturer, model, and production year. The primary HIN location is standardised and must be permanently affixed by the manufacturer. The secondary HIN location is not legally required but is a recommended practice for boat manufacturers.

The HIN must be carved, burned, stamped, embossed, moulded, bonded, or otherwise permanently affixed to the watercraft. It is illegal to alter, deface, paint over, destroy, or remove the HIN.

Registration requirements for boats without motors

Registering a boat is a legal requirement in the US, much like registering a car. The specific rules and guidelines for registering a boat without a motor depend on the state in which the vessel will be operated. While boats with motors are generally required to be registered, the requirements for boats without motors vary by state. Here are the registration requirements for boats without motors in a few states:

Washington State

In Washington, all vessels that require registration must be titled through the Washington State Department of Licensing. Canoes, kayaks, and other vessels not propelled by a motor or sail that are less than 16 feet in length and have a motor of 10 horsepower or less, used only on non-federal waters, are exempt from registration. However, they must still have a Washington title, registration card, and registration decals to be operated in the state.

Ohio

Ohio offers two registration options for human-powered (non-motorized) watercraft such as canoes and rowboats: traditional registration and alternative registration. With traditional registration, owners choose to have the craft numbered, pay a smaller registration fee, and obtain square tags. Under alternative registration, owners opt to not have the craft numbered, pay a higher registration fee, and obtain a rectangular tag that must be displayed in specific locations on the boat.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is one of the few states that require an unpowered boat permit for canoes, kayaks, sailboats, and other unpowered vessels used at state-owned facilities, such as access sites.

General Requirements

Regardless of the state, there are some general requirements for registering a boat without a motor. These include researching the specific boat registration requirements in your state, completing a registration form, providing proof of ownership, paying the registration fee, and renewing the registration before the expiration date. Additionally, federally documented vessels, which are large vessels used on navigable waters and documented through the US Coast Guard, are typically exempted from state registration requirements.

Frequently asked questions