Boat Registration

Boat registration in Texas is handled by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The TPWD has created an automated boat registration system that is expected to be online in 2006. If you need assistance, you can contact the Boat Information Hotline directly at (800) 262-8755.

When you first register, you'll need to appear in person at a TPWD registration office. Your registration will be valid for two years. The following water vessels must be registered in Texas:

• Any motorized boat of any length

• Any sailboat 14 feet or longer, and sailboats of any size if they carry an engine

• U.S. Coast Guard documented vessels (previously exempt; registration required as of 2004)

Nonmotorized vessels are exempt. These include canoes, kayaks, punts, rowboats, rubber rafts, and similar vessels. If any of these are used with a motor, then they must be registered.

How to Register

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has compiled a number of charts to illustrate the documents you will need to provide in order to register a boat that you've bought:

• New from a dealer

• Used (already registered in Texas)

• Used (not already registered in Texas)

While a dealer will usually handle the registration paperwork for you, if you buy a used boat from a private party who had it registered in Texas, that chart shows that you will need to produce the title, the bill of sale or invoice, and a completed application form.

Registration Fee Schedule

The following fees apply for a two-year registration and are based on the length of the boat:

• Less than 16 feet: $30

• Livery boat less than 16 feet: $30

• 16 feet but less than 26 feet: $50

• 26 feet but less than 40 feet: $70

• 40 feet or more: $90

Renewal

To renew your boat's registration, you'll need to send in the appropriate fee along with either the renewal notice sent to you, a completed records maintenance request, or a request letter that includes the boat's Texas number, your mailing address, and your signature. You may submit this paperwork in person at a TPWD office location or mail it to the address below.

Additional Information

In addition to reading the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's boat registration requirements, you may wish to peruse the department's FAQ page for answers to a number of specific boat titling and registration questions. The TPWD also offers a number of registration-related forms for download (at the bottom of the page).

You may contact the department for more information at the following address:

• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

• 4200 Smith School Road

• Austin, TX 78744

• (512) 389-4828 or (800) 262-8755