FAQ: Does a Documented Boat Need to Be Registered in Pennsylvania?

Vessels which are used for recreational purposes must be registered in Pennsylvania. US Coast Guard Documented vessels used for non-recreational purposes do not require registration in Pennsylvania.

Documented Recreational Vessels are only required to display the validation decals. They should not display a Pennsylvania registration number. Federal law prohibits the display of state registration numbers on documented vessels; only the state’s validation decals should be visible on the bow of the boat.

Documented vessels used for recreational purposes are exempt from displaying a PA Boat Registration number on the boat. Boat owners receive a set of PA Validation Decals and a PA Boat Registration Card. The PA Validation Decals must be displayed.

Complete Form REV-336, Application for Pennsylvania Boat Registration and/or Title. Check the
box indicating DOCUMENTED VESSEL at the top of the REV-336 form.

1. Agents must ensure that application forms are completed correctly and signed properly. Agents
   should take reasonable steps to ensure that all information presented is true and correct.
2. PA Registration Number – Complete if previously registered in Pennsylvania.
3. Date of Purchase – The date that the applicant received, purchased or was assigned ownership to
   the boat.
4. Section A – Check the “Documented Vessel” box.
5. Section B – Current owner name(s) and mailing address information.
6. Section C – Enter all available boat data. Note: the “Use” code for a documented vessel is an
   “A”.
7. Sections D – Optional Information.
8. Section E – Lienholder information is not required on documented vessels.
9. Section F – Seller information is required.
10. Section G – Applicant is eligible to receive a temporary registration. Enter the expiration date,
    agent number and agent name.
11. Section H – Proof of the payment of Sales Tax is required. Attach a copy of the Bill of Sale (to
    support proof of taxes paid) to the REV-336 form.
12. Section I – Complete if sales transaction is exempt from PA sales tax.
13. Section J – All parties involved in the ownership, purchase and/or sale of the boat must sign and
    date the form. A bill of sale signed by the seller may be substituted for the seller’s signature on
    the REV-336. REV-336’s will not be processed without the required signatures.

Reference: Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission

https://www.fishandboat.com/LearningCenter/FAQs/Pages/BoatRegistrationTitling.aspx