Michigan Non-Resident Boating: 60-Day Rule, Registration & Safety (2026)

The Short Answer for Visiting Boaters

Michigan honors watercraft registered in another state when the boat is used only temporarily in Michigan. The Secretary of State FAQ says owners of watercraft registered in another state may use Michigan waterways up to 60 days; after that, Michigan registration is required.

This is especially important for seasonal visitors, marina customers, and Great Lakes boaters who cross into Michigan waters often. A weekend trip with valid home-state registration is different from keeping a boat stored or anchored in Michigan and using it there all season.

If Michigan is becoming the boat's main state of use, start with our Michigan boat registration guide and Michigan title transfer guide.

When Michigan Registration Is Required

Register in Michigan when the boat is no longer just a temporary visitor. Michigan says a boat stored or anchored in Michigan and exclusively used on Michigan waterways over 60 days must be registered in Michigan.

Michigan law also recognizes that if a vessel is removed to Michigan as the new state of principal use, an out-of-state number is valid for only a limited period. Do not wait until a busy holiday weekend to start the office process.

What to Carry During Temporary Use

Bring the same records you would expect an officer to ask for at home: current registration card, visible numbers and decals from the issuing state, proof of ownership if you are moving or selling the boat, and a boater safety card if your age or vessel type requires one.

Safety equipment must match Michigan waters, not just your home lake. Have enough USCG-approved PFDs, a throwable device when required, sound-producing device, fire extinguisher when required, lights for reduced visibility, and visual distress signals for Great Lakes use.

Boater Education for Non-Residents

For non-PWC motorboats, Michigan DNR says operators born on or after July 1, 1996 need a boating safety certificate to operate a motorboat over 6 horsepower; operators under 12 also have separate horsepower and supervision limits. For PWC, Michigan uses a separate cutoff: operators born after December 31, 1978 need a certificate.

Carry your home-state or NASBLA-approved certificate when boating in Michigan. For a PWC, also check the minimum-age and supervision rules in our Michigan PWC laws guide.

Great Lakes and Border-State Trips

Great Lakes trips can move between Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Minnesota, and Canadian waters. Registration reciprocity covers temporary use, but it does not erase safety rules, border requirements, or the need to comply with each jurisdiction you enter.

Before crossing a state or international line, confirm navigation rules, fishing licenses, invasive species requirements, and weather. A Michigan registration question is only one part of a Great Lakes trip plan.

How to Register if Michigan Becomes the Main State of Use

Visit a Michigan Secretary of State office with license or ID and proof of ownership. Michigan lists proof examples including previous registration with seller signature, bill of sale with vessel details, MCO, watercraft title when required, surety bond, self-certification in qualifying cases, or USCG documentation.

Michigan registration fees are based on watercraft type and length. Michigan also lists 6% sales tax due at registration unless proof of tax paid or an exemption applies.

Mistakes That Trigger Registration Problems

Do not assume the 60-day allowance applies to a boat that is effectively based in Michigan. Also avoid operating with expired home-state registration, missing decals, no proof of ownership after a recent purchase, or a PWC operator who lacks the required certificate.

If your Michigan use is close to the limit, registering in Michigan may be simpler than trying to prove every launch date later.