Boat Registration and Licenses in Vermont

VT Boats Requiring Registration

All motorized boats, regardless of size or type, must register with Vermont's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Vermont Boat Registration Exemptions

• Any vessel registered in another state and not used in Vermont for more than 90 consecutive days.

• Vessels documented by the U.S. Coast Guard.

• All non-motorized kayaks, canoes and sailboats.

Boat Registration Requirements and Procedures

• Complete a Vermont Motorboat Registration and Title Application.

• Include, for tax purposes, your bill of sale. For tax exceptions, read page three of instructions that accompany the registration form.

• Provide a Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) if it's new, or the boat's title if previously owned.

• Pay all registration fees (see below) and taxes.

Vermont Boat Registration Fees

• Class A, less than 16 feet: $27

• Class I, between 16 and 26 feet: $43

• Class II, between 26 and 40 feet: $70

• Class III, 40 feet and longer: $136

VT Boat Registration Renewals and Replacements

All registration certificates are valid for one year and expire on December 31st. You should receive a renewal form approximately three weeks prior to expiration.

Renew Online

To renew online you'll need:

• Your registration renewal number, listed on your renewal notice.

• A Visa, MasterCard, or Discover credit or debit card.

After submitting, print the receipt and use as a temporary registration (valid for 10 days) until your permanent one arrives in the mail within four to six days. If you need a permanent registration certificate immediately, renew in person.

NOTE: You will not be charged an additional service fee for renewing online.

Renew in Person

Take renewal form to any Department of Motor Vehicle's (DMV) office or to your Town Clerk. If you do not have a renewal form, bring your current boat registration certificate.

You also have the option to renew via a self-serve kiosk located in all DMV offices.

Renew by Mail

Send registration renewal form and payment to:

• Department of Motor Vehicles

• 120 State St.

• Montpelier, Vermont 05603-0001

Renew by Phone

Dial (866) 259-5368 and follow the voice instructions. Pay using a credit or debit card (Discover, Visa, MasterCard).

Replace Lost Boat Registration

Visit any DMV office with a completed a duplicate registration form. Cost: $2

VT Boater License

Anyone born after January 1, 1974, must complete a Vermont-approved boating safety course to operate a motorized boat. And yes, this does include personal watercraft (PWC). In addition:

• You must be at least 12 years old to operate a boat with more than six horsepower.

• You cannot operate a PWC if younger than 16, regardless if you own a boating safety certificate.

Vermont Boater Safety Course

State-approved classes are offered by the Vermont State Police.

• Classroom courses are offered throughout the state.

• Online courses are offered year-round.

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