Where Montana Boat Title Work Happens
Montana residents obtain a Certificate of Ownership, a certificate of number, and pay registration fees through the County Treasurer in the county where the owner resides.
FWP describes the title as the Certificate of Ownership and lists a current title fee of $10. Registration is separate and is based on vessel class and length.
For the state registration overview, see our Montana boat registration guide.
Which Boats Must Be Registered and Numbered
FWP says sailboats 12 feet long and longer, all motorboats, and personal watercraft must be registered and numbered in Montana.
Nonmotorized sailboats less than 12 feet long and manually propelled boats, regardless of length, are exempt from registration and taxation. A vessel lifeboat and government-owned boats are also listed as exempt.
If a kayak, canoe, or small craft gets a motor, treat it as a motorboat for Montana registration purposes. For paddling-specific rules, use our Montana kayak registration guide.
Current Montana Title and Registration Fees
Montana permanent registration is a one-time fee for motorboats, personal watercraft, motorized pontoons, and sailboats 12 feet or longer. FWP lists no validation decal requirement for Montana boats under the current rules page.
| Item | FWP listing |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Ownership title | $10 |
| Under 16 ft motorboat/PWC/motorized pontoon; sailboat 12 ft to under 16 ft | $65.50 permanent registration |
| 16 ft to under 19 ft motorboat/motorized pontoon/sailboat; PWC 16 ft or longer | $125.50 permanent registration |
| 19 ft or longer motorboat/motorized pontoon/sailboat | $295.50 permanent registration |
Montana does not charge state general sales tax, but nonresident use, storage, or delivery in another state can create separate tax questions outside Montana.
Paperwork to Bring
For a used boat, bring enough documentation for the County Treasurer to connect the seller, buyer, and hull. A practical packet includes the prior title or ownership document when available, bill of sale, Hull Identification Number, photo ID, and lien release if a lien was recorded.
Homemade boats or boats made before 1972 that require registration must first get a Hull Identification Number. FWP says a HIN can be obtained from an FWP regional or area office, the application fee is $5, and the boat must be inspected by a peace officer after the HIN is affixed.
Out-of-State and Nonresident Boats
FWP says boats properly registered in another state or country may operate in Montana for up to 90 consecutive days without Montana registration.
If Montana becomes the main place the boat is kept or used beyond that temporary allowance, plan on Montana title and registration through the County Treasurer.
Nonresident watercraft launching in Montana also need the Vessel AIS Prevention Pass and must follow inspection rules. See our Montana nonresident boating guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a Montana boat title?
Where do I transfer a Montana boat title?
Which boats must be registered in Montana?
Are Montana validation decals still required?
How long can an out-of-state registered boat operate in Montana?
Sources
- Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks — Boating Rules and Regulations (https://fwp.mt.gov/activities/boating/rules-regulations)
- Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks — Boating Education (https://fwp.mt.gov/activities/boating/education)
This information is provided for reference purposes only. While we strive to keep data accurate and up-to-date, registration requirements, fees, and regulations may change without notice. Always contact your state's official registration agency for the most current and authoritative information before making any decisions.