Boat Registration and Licenses in Delaware

What to Register

• Every boat

• Every vessel

• Jet Skis

• Surf jets

• Ski craft

• Other personal craft

If they are intended to be operated on Delaware's waterways.

Exemptions

• Non-resident boats and other vessels used or stowed on Delaware's waterways for 60 days or less.

Requirements and Procedures

The registration procedure varies according to a few factors, as outlined in the application form. However, most boaters will need to do the following:

1. Complete the application.
2. Locate your bill of sale.
3. Bring the pertinent fee.
4. Take the necessary paperwork to the Delaware Boat Registration License Agency.
5. You may also mail the required documents and fee to:

• Division of Fish & Wildlife

• Boat Registration

• 89 Kings Highway

• Dover, DE 19901

You can choose either a single year or a three-year registration.

Fees

Fees vary, depending on the length of the boat and the length of registration:

Single Year

• Class A: Less than 16': $10

• Class 1: 16' ― 26': $20

• Class 2: 26' ― 40': $30

• Class 3: 40' ― 65': $50

• Class 4: 65' and longer: $60

Three-Year

• Class A: Less than 16': $30

• Class 1: 16' ― 26': $60

• Class 2: 26' ― 40': $90

• Class 3: 40' ― 65': $150

• Class 4: 65' and longer: $180

Renewals and Replacements

Online

To renew online:

1. Go to the renewal site.
2. Enter your hull ID number.
3. Enter your name.
4. Enter your payment information.
5. Finish the checkout procedure.

In Person

Renew your registration in person by visiting a Delaware Boat Registration License Agency with your current registration card or receipt and your registration fee.

By Mail

Send your renewal form and fee payment to the address indicated on your renewal form.

Replace Lost Registration

Call (302) 739-9916 to receive a duplicate registration. You'll need to supply your boat information. Replacement registrations cost $2.30.

Boater License

Anyone born after January 1, 1978 who wants to operate a watercraft with an engine of more than 10 horsepower must be licensed. This includes personal watercraft, such as Jet Skis.

Additionally, you must be at least 12 years old to obtain a boater license, and you need to be at least 14 years old and licensed to operate a personal watercraft. Even then, if you're under 16, a licensed adult operator must be on board with you.

To obtain a license, you'll need to successfully completed an approved boater safety course.

Boater Safety Course

Courses such as those offered by BoaterExam.com allow you to fulfill the licensing requirements mandated by the state.

Times and fees for the courses vary with the provider.

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