Boat Registration and Licenses in Pennsylvania

What to Register

Any motorized boat.

What Not to Register

• Non-motorized kayaks.

• Non-motorized sculls.

• Non-motorized sailboards.

• Non-motorized rowboats.

*Non-motorized boats must be registered if used at a Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) lake or area, or at a Pennsylvania State Park lake.

Exemptions

• Lifeboats.

• U.S. government-owned ships.

• Foreign boats temporarily in Pennsylvania.

• Search and rescue boats.

• Documented boats used for non-recreational purposes.

What to Title in PA

• Any boat powered by an inboard motor that has a model year of 1997 or newer.

• Any boat powered by an outboard motor that is 14 feet or longer and has a model year of 1997 or newer.

• Any boat with a Pennsylvania title when purchased.

• Any boat used primarily in Pennsylvania even though it's titled in another state.

Pennsylvania Requirements and Procedures

1. Complete an Application for Pennsylvania Boat Registration and/or Boat Title.
2. Provide proof of ownership, either in the form of a title or a Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin, along with a bill of sale.
3. Pay all applicable fees.
4. Mail to the address on the application, or drop it off at any any PFBC office.

Fees

• Non-motorized boats: $18

• Motorboats less than 16 feet: $26

• Motorboats 16-20 feet: $39

• Motorboats 20 feet and longer: Motorboats 20 feet and longer

Renewals and Replacements

Boat registrations are valid for two years, expiring March 31 of the second year.

Renew Online

Renew online using American Express, Visa, MasterCard, or Discover.

Renew by Mail

Mail the renewal to the address on your renewal notification card. If you did not receive a renewal notice, submit a Boat Registration Renewal application.

Renew in Person

Drop your renewal notice off at any PFBC office.

Replace Lost Pennsylvania Registration

Complete a Request for Duplicate Certificate of Registration application and mail to the address located in top right corner of the form. Cost: $3

PA Boater License

A boating safety certificate is required for:

• Anyone operating a personal watercraft (Jet Ski).

• Anyone born on or after January 1, 1982, who operates a motorboat with an engine of 25 horsepower or greater.

Boater Safety Courses

• Online: Take a state-approved online course through BoaterExam.com.

• Classroom: Courses are offered throughout the state.

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