Boat Registration and Licenses in Hawaii

What to Register

• All commercial and recreational vessels, unless exempted.

Exemptions

• Documented vessels.

• Lifeboats used strictly for that purpose.

• Recreational vessels that are manually propelled.

• Recreational vessels eight feet long or less that are propelled only by sail.

• Motorboats used only for racing.

• Vessels owned by the U.S. government.

Registrations and Procedures

To obtain your registration certificate, boat decal, and certificate of number, you need to:

1. Locate your proof of boat ownership.
2. Have your personal identification (driver's license or Hawaii ID card).
3. Figure out the necessary registration payment.
4. Go to any Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR) office.
5. While at the office, you'll be asked to complete the boat registration form.
6. You'll receive a registration certificate, boat decal, and certificate of number. The DOBOR provides information on how to properly display your registration number.

Fees

Registration fees vary according to the vessel's length, as follows:

• Vessels less than 20': $18

• Vessels 20' or longer: $30

Renewals and Replacements

Registrations are valid for one year. Before your expiration date, you should receive a renewal card reminder in the mail.

Renew in Person

Bring your renewal card and payment to your local DOBOR office.

Renew Online

1. Visit the renewal site.
2. Enter your name or registration number.
3. Then follow the instructions given to complete the renewal process.

Replace Lost Registration

You have two options for replacing your lost registration:

1. Go to a DOBOR office and pay the $5 fee to receive a duplicate registration.
2. Visit the renewal site and follow the instructions provided.

Boater License

Hawaii doesn't issue boater licenses, although taking a boater safety course is encouraged.

Boater Safety Courses

Even though you're not required to take these courses to operate a vessel, doing so allows you to become a better educated boater, while possibly reducing your insurance costs in the process.

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