Boat Registration and Licenses in Massachusetts

What to Register

• All motorized boats used on the state's public waterways, including vessels that don't primarily depend on mechanical propulsion.

Exemptions

• Documented vessels.

• Vessels currently registered in another state that will be used in Massachusetts for less than 60 days.

Massachusetts Requirements and Procedures

All boats must be registered through one of the five regional registration offices. However, registration procedures vary slightly depending on if your boat is new or used, and its length.

Boats without a Hull ID number may require an inspection prior to registration.

No matter the length of your boat, keep your registration available for inspection whenever your boat is in operation. The state provides information on the proper placement for your registration number and decal.

Boats 14 Feet and Longer

1. Complete an application.
2. Locate the bill of sale.
3. Locate the title (used boats only).
4. Locate the Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (new boats only).
5. Locate the proof of payment of sales tax (ST-6, ST-6E, or bill of sale).
6. Obtain a pencil tracing of Hull ID number.
7. Be prepared to pay the required fees.
8. Go the nearest regional registration office.

You can pay your sales tax online. To find it, go to "Individuals and Families," then "Programs and Services." From there, click on "Recreational Vehicle Sales Tax." Sales tax must be paid within 20 days of your purchase.

If you purchase a boat from a private party living in a state where titling is not required, substitute its registration form for the title.

Boats Less Than 14 Feet Long

1. Complete an application.
2. Locate the bill of sale.
3. Locate the proof of payment of sales tax (ST-6, ST-6E, or bill of sale).
4. Obtain a pencil tracing of Hull ID number.
5. Be prepared to pay the required fees.
6. Go the nearest regional registration office.

You can pay your sales tax online. Sales tax must be paid within 20 days of your purchase.

Fees

Registration fees vary with the length of the vessel, as follows:
Registration fees vary with the length of the vessel, as follows:

• Less than 16': $40

• 16' to 26': $60

• 26' to 40': $80

• Longer than 40': $100

Renewals and Replacements

Registrations are valid for two years. You should receive a renewal notice in the mail about one month before your expiration date.

Renew by Mail

Send the renewal notice and a check or money order (payable to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts) for your renewal fee in the enclosed return envelope.

Renew Online

Visit the renewal site and follow the instructions. Pay your fee with your Visa, MasterCard, or American Express credit card.

Renew in Person

Bring your renewal card and fee payment to a regional registration office.

Replace Lost Registration

Receive a replacement registration by completing the registration application form and marking the boxed marked "duplicate." Then, mail it to your nearest regional registration office.

The duplicate registration costs $10, while replacement decals cost another $5. If you're requesting decals, you must explain why you need them.

You can receive a duplicate registration at a regional registration office, too. Fill out the form, or have your registration number with you.

MA Boater License

You are not required to obtain a boater license. However, you must obtain a boating safety certificate if:

• You're between the ages of 12 and 15 and want to operate a motorboat by yourself.

• You're 16 or 17 years old and want to operate a personal watercraft by yourself.

If you're younger than either of those ages, you can't operate the watercraft listed by yourself, period.

Obtain your certificate by successfully completing a state-approved safety program.

Boater Safety Courses

Courses are available in classroom settings throughout the state. These free classes are between 10 and 12 hours long, and are normally split across two days.

The only online course currently available for issuance of a Massachusetts-issued safety certificate is through the New Hampshire Department of Public Safety.

Even if you're not required to take these classes, doing so is a good way to improve your boater safety, and possibly reduce your insurance costs.

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