US Coast Guard Documented recreational vessels operating in New York State must also be Registered. US Coast Guard Documented Commercial vessels operating in New York State are exempt from registration.
If your boat was documented by US Coast Guard, you do not receive an NYS registration number. You received NYS registration stickers only. Attach the stickers in the position where the registration numbers are normally located.
Boat registration requirements
In New York, boats (watercraft) without a motor do not need to be registered. If you use a motor (electric or fuel-driven), regardless of the size of your boat or the motor, you must register your boat.
Your boat is exempt from New York State registration if it is
- a lifeboat
- registered in another state and not kept in New York for more than 90 consecutive days
- a commercial boat with either U.S. or foreign documentation
- a boat racing in competition
There is no age requirement to own or register a boat in New York. However, there are restrictions according to age for legal operation. These restrictions are outlined in the pamphlet, “New York State Boater’s Guide”, issued by the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation.
Boat registrations are issued for 3 years.
How to register
Before visiting a DMV office to register your boat, please read the instructions, Registering / Titling a Boat in New York State (PDF) (MV-82.1B), and complete the Document Guide to make sure you bring the correct documents with you.
Find your proofs for registration
Summary of what you need
- a completed Boat Registration / Title Application (PDF) (MV-82B)
- proof of ownership (see the list of acceptable proof in New York State DMV – Boat / Vessel Registration Information)
- find out how to transfer ownership of a boat or what to do if proof of ownership is not available
- proof of identity
- the bill of sale if purchased from a licensed New York State boat dealer (this can also serve as proof of sales tax payment)
- cash, check, money order, or credit/debit card for payment of fees and sales tax (or proof of sales tax payment or exemption)
Registration fees
There are a registration fee and a surcharge for boating safety. The fees and surcharges are calculated based on the length of the boat.
| LENGTH | REGISTRATION FEE | SURCHARGE | TOTAL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 16 feet | $22.50 | $3.75 | $26.25 |
| 16 feet to less than 26 feet | $45.00 | $12.50 | $57.50 |
| 26 feet or longer | $75.00 | $18.75 | $93.75 |