Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Alaska, all motorized vessels, barges, sport fishing guide boats, and tenders principally used in alaska. There are 4 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorized vessels, barges, sport fishing guide boats, and tenders principally used in Alaska
Exempt from registration:
- Non-powered boats (unless used for sport fishing guiding or with auxiliary power)
- Ship's lifeboats, seaplanes, inspected passenger vessels
- Government-owned boats
- Non-residents with valid home-state registration for up to 90 consecutive days
Registration Fees & Costs
Alaska boat registration fees range from $10.00 to $75.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 0% sales tax, and title fees are $20.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Powered boat (3-yr) | $24.00 | $24.00 |
| Non-powered boat (3-yr) | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Barge (3-yr) | $75.00 | $75.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 0%
Title Fee: $20.00
How to Register Your Boat in Alaska
To register a boat in Alaska, you must apply within Before operating on public waters of purchase through the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / Office of Boating Safety. Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 3 years.
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / Office of Boating Safety portal
- In Person: At your local Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / Office of Boating Safety office
- By Mail: Download forms from the official website
Required Documents
- Completed registration application form
- Bill of Sale or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO)
- Valid photo identification
- Proof of sales tax payment
- Hull Identification Number (HIN) verification
Title & Title Transfer
Alaska requires a boat title for undocumented boats over 24 feet in length; boats previously uscg-documented now subject to state registration. optional for boats 24 ft and under.. The title application fee is $20.00, and transfers cost $20.00.
Title required: Yes — Undocumented boats over 24 feet in length; boats previously USCG-documented now subject to state registration. Optional for boats 24 ft and under.
Title application fee: $20.00
Title transfer fee: $20.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title or registration (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale or CG-1261 Builder's Certification
- Valid photo ID
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Registration Renewal
Validity period: 3 years
Renewal is available through the same channels as initial registration — online (if available), in person, or by mail. Be sure to renew before your registration expires to avoid late fees.
For more details, see our Boat Registration Renewal Guide.
Boater Safety Education Requirements
Alaska does not require a boater safety course for boat operators.
Required: No
Who must complete it: Alaska does not mandate boater education. The Office of Boating Safety strongly recommends completing a safety course. Operators under 14 must be accompanied by an adult in state park waters.
Accepted courses: BoatUS Foundation (free), NASBLA-approved online providers
Course cost: Free (BoatUS Foundation) or paid online options
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: AK 1234 AB
Minimum font height: 3 inches minimum
Font style: Block letters, contrasting color to hull
Placement: Both sides of bow, forward half, left to right
Sticker placement: Within 6 inches of registration number
For federal rules on registration number display, see our Number Display Rules Guide.
Alaska Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Alaska?
Do I need a title for my boat in Alaska?
Is boater education required in Alaska?
Can non-residents operate boats in Alaska?
Does Alaska have sales tax on boats?
How long is boat registration valid in Alaska?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Alaska? Visit the official Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / Office of Boating Safety website or use our tools to estimate costs.
Related Resources
This information is provided for reference purposes only. While we strive to keep data accurate and verified for 2026, registration requirements and fees may change. Contact the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / Office of Boating Safety at 907-269-5551 for the most current information.