Boat Registration and Licenses in Nevada

What to Register

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) requires registration of all motorboats (including jet skis).

What Not to Register

• Non-motorized sailboats.

• Canoes.

• Kayaks.

• Any other non-motorized vessel.

Exemptions

• Any motorboat from another country temporarily using Nevada's waters.

• A ship's lifeboat.

• A public vessel of the U.S. government, a state or a political subdivision of a state.

• Any boat already registered in another state.

Requirements and Procedures

To register a new or previously untitled vessel, first gather the following:

1. Bill of sale as proof of ownership.
2. Verification of sales tax paid, if applicable. (Casual sales between two individuals do not require sales tax.)
3. Original Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO). If you don't have an MSO or if the hull identification number (HIN) isn't typed out, the NDOW must inspect your boat. (The Carson City NDOW office does not do inspections, but all other locations do.)
4. Previous state's registration (if applicable).
5. Social Security number.
6. Applicable fees.

And then apply in person at your nearest NDOW office. Whether you need info on registering out-of-state untitled vessels and Nevada titled vessels, this agency will have the answers you need. Once you complete the registration process, remember:

• Registration expires on December 31st of the year it was registered.

• Carry your registration card whenever operating your vessel.

Fees

• Less than 13 feet: $20

• Thirteen feet or longer but shorter than 18: $25

• Eighteen feet or longer but shorter than 22: $40

• Twenty-two feet or longer but shorter than 26: $55

• Twenty-six feet or longer but shorter than 31: $75

• Thirty-one feet or longer: $100

A Note About Sales Tax

All boats sold by dealers require the payment of sales tax. Sales tax does not apply to sales between two individuals. If you haven't paid the tax, contact one of the following offices for information on where to pay it:

• Reno: (775) 688-1295

• Carson City: (775) 684-2135

• Las Vegas: (702) 486-2300

Registration Renewal

Online

Use Nevada's online renewal system. Access via the code printed on your renewal notice, which will be mailed to you before December 31st.

Renewing online will give you a temporary authorization number, allowing you to legally operate your boat for 10 days from the renewal date.

Renew in Person

Visit a NDOW office.

Replace Lost Registration

Visit any NDOW office. No charge for a replacement.

Boater License

No license is required. But persons born after January 1st, 1983 must complete a boating education course to operate a motorboat of more than 15 horsepower on Nevada's interstate waters.

Boater Safety Courses

• Online: BoaterExam.com

• Classroom or by mail: contact NDOW.

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