Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Louisiana, all motorized vessels, sailboats 12 feet or longer, and non-motorized houseboats. There are 3 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorized vessels, sailboats 12 feet or longer, and non-motorized houseboats
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized vessels under 12 feet
- Vessels registered in another state temporarily in Louisiana
- Federally documented vessels
Registration Fees & Costs
Louisiana boat registration fees range from $36.00 to $99.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 4.45% sales tax, and title fees are $15.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Class A (17'11" or less) | $36.00 | $36.00 |
| Class I (18'–26') | $57.00 | $57.00 |
| Class II (26'1"–38') | $78.00 | $78.00 |
| Class III (38'1" or greater) | $99.00 | $99.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 4.45%
Title Fee: $15.00
How to Register Your Boat in Louisiana
To register a boat in Louisiana, you must apply within Within 30 days of purchase of purchase through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF). Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 3 years.
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) portal
- In Person: At your local Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) 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
Louisiana requires a boat title for financed boats or outboard motors (25+ hp), boats titled in another state, homemade boats, and boats with incorrect hin. The title application fee is $15.00, and transfers cost $15.00.
Title required: Yes — Financed boats or outboard motors (25+ HP), boats titled in another state, homemade boats, and boats with incorrect HIN
Title application fee: $15.00
Title transfer fee: $15.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (new vessels from dealer)
- Previous title or registration (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale or Invoice
- Proof of Louisiana sales tax paid or Tax Payment Certification Form (R-1331)
- 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
Louisiana requires a boater safety course. Operators born after January 1, 1984, operating motorboats with more than 10 HP or any PWC. The minimum age to operate a vessel is 10.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: Operators born after January 1, 1984, operating motorboats with more than 10 HP or any PWC
Accepted courses: LDWF approved courses, Boat Ed, BoatUS Foundation
Course cost: Free (LDWF in-person, BoatUS online) or paid providers
Minimum age to operate: 10 years old
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: LA 1234 AB
Minimum font height: 3 inches minimum
Font style: Block letters, contrasting color to hull
Placement: Both sides of bow, forward half
Sticker placement: Within 6 inches of registration number
For federal rules on registration number display, see our Number Display Rules Guide.
How Louisiana Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $36.00 | 3 years | Yes | 4.45% |
| Arkansas | $7.50 | 3 years | Yes | 6.5% |
| Mississippi | $10.99 | 3 years | No | 7% |
| Texas | $32.00 | 2 years | Yes | 6.25% |
Louisiana Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Louisiana?
Do I need a title for my boat in Louisiana?
Is a boating safety course required in Louisiana?
How long is boat registration valid in Louisiana?
Can non-residents operate boats in Louisiana?
What vessels must be registered in Louisiana?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Louisiana? Visit the official Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) 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 Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) at 225-765-2898 for the most current information.