Boat Registration

Just about any type of a boat with a motor―and there are an estimated 150,000 of them in Massachusetts―must be registered with the Massachusetts Environmental Police Registration and Titling Bureau. Registration is mandatory for any boat with a motor that uses state waterways. Titling is mandatory for any boat that uses an engine and is 14 feet or longer.

How to Register and Title a Boat in Massachusetts

To register and title a boat, you need to first pay your 5% sales tax to the Department of Revenue. Once you have proof of payment, you can complete a registration and title application from the MA Enviromental Police. The application is available online or from any of the regional Enviromental Police offices in Massachusetts. Once you've completed the application, take it to the nearest Environmental Police regional office.

For boats 14 feet or longer, you will need to bring the following documents:

• Bill of sale (including the name and address of the seller).

• Title or, if the vessel is documented with the Coast Guard, a Termination of Documentation ("Deletion Letter") from the Coast Guard. This will indicate that there are no outstanding mortgages on the vessel.

• If the boat was purchased new from a registered boat dealer or store, an original "Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin" is required in lieu of title.

• Proof of payment of sales tax. You can also pay your sales tax online.

• A pencil tracing of the boat's hull ID number (serial number).

• Titling and registration fees.

Once you complete the registration process, you will receive a registration number, a registration certificate, and a decal. The registration number and decal must be displayed at the front of the boat. The certificate must be kept on the boat at all times while it is in operation.

Renewing a Massachusetts Boat Registration

You should receive a registration renewal notice in the mail at least one month before your registration expires.

The easiest way to renew your Massachusetts boat registration is to do it online. You can also mail your renewal form and payment back in the enclosed return envelope along with a check or money order payable to the "Commonwealth of Massachusetts." Be sure to write your registration number on the check. (The fee schedule varies for different sized boats and is listed below.)

You can also bring the renewal card and fees to any regional Environment Police office in Massachusetts. However, there are often long lines during the peak registration season from April through August and you might save time using the Internet or mail.

Boat Registration and Titling Fees

Be prepared to pay the following to register and title your boat in Massachusetts:

• $25 for a title certificate. This is a one-time fee.

• A registration fee, good for two years. Exact cost depends on the size of your boat:

• Less than 16 feet: $40

• 16 to 26 feet: $60

• 26 to 40 feet: $80

• More than 40 feet: $100

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Boat Registration

You can get a duplicate registration or title for a boat registered in Massachusetts from any regional Environmental Police office. A duplicate registration costs $10 and a duplicate title costs $15.

Insuring a Boat in Massachusetts

Unlike with motor vehicles, insuring your boat is optional in Massachusetts.