Boat Registration and Licenses in Colorado

Colorado Boats Requiring Registration

• Sail-powered boats used on Colorado's public waters.

• Motor-powered boats used on the state's public waters.

CO Boat Registration Exemptions

• Boats currently registered in another state that will be used on the state's waterways for less than 60 days.

• Canoes and kayaks.

CO Vessel Registration Requirements and Procedures

While you may use your newly purchased boat for 30 days without registering it, be aware that processing your application can take up to eight weeks. You may register your boat in person or by by mail. Here's how:

In Person

Most State Park offices handle boat registrations. Before visiting, call to guarantee the service is offered. Bring with you:

1. A completed registration form.
2. Payment to cover the registration fee (see below).

By Mail

Send a completed registration form and your fee payment to:

• Colorado State Parks

• Registration Unit

• 13787 S. Highway 85

• Littleton, CO 80125

Additional Information

You will be assigned a Colorado Registration Number. Paint or attach the number in, at least, 3 inch block letters to each side of the bow of your boat. Make sure the color of the number contrasts the color of your vessel for easy visibility.

Colorado Boat Registration Fees

Your fee is determined by the length of your boat, as follows:

• Less than 20': $35.25

• 20' to 29' 11": $45.25

• 30'' and longer: $75.25

Each fee represents a flat yearly rate. No prorated fees are offered.

Boat Registration Renewals and Replacements

Registrations expire on December 31 of each year, regardless of when you obtained the registration. Renewal forms are mailed in November.

Renew by Mail

Send the renewal form and your fee payment in the enclosed envelope.

Renew Online

1. Go to the online renewal page.
2. Enter your vessel's information.
3. Pay your fee using Visa or MasterCard.
4. Print your temporary receipt.

The state offers a FAQs section for online renewals.

Replace Lost Registration

Receive a duplicate registration by calling (303) 791-1920. Replacement registrations cost $5.

You can also pick up a replacement for $5 at:

• Colorado State Parks

• Registration Unit

• 13787 S. Highway 85

• Littleton, CO 80125

CO Boater License

You must be at least 16 years old to operate a boat in Colorado. Or, you may operate a vessel if you're 14 or 15 years old provided you complete a state-approved safety course (see below for details) and receive a boating license.

Colorado Boater Education

Course providers, such as BoaterExam.com allow you to complete the course and take the test online.

Or, you can fulfill the state's licensing requirements by studying the "Boating Safely in Colorado" manual and scoring at least 70% on the exam. Obtain the manual by calling (303) 791-1954, or write to boating.safety@state.co.us with your name, mailing address, date of birth, phone number and the location and date you're thinking of attending. There will be a $15 certification fee. The state's website provides additional information on the course.

Your Opinion Matters To Us!