Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Maine, all motorized watercraft operating on maine waters. There are 2 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorized watercraft operating on Maine waters
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized vessels (canoes, kayaks, rowing boats)
- Vessels registered in another state for fewer than 60 consecutive days
Registration Fees & Costs
Maine boat registration fees range from $16.00 to $60.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 5.5% sales tax, and title fees are $33.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| 0–10 HP (inland) | $41.00 | $41.00 |
| 11–50 HP (inland) | $46.00 | $46.00 |
| 51–115 HP (inland) | $52.00 | $52.00 |
| 116+ HP (inland) | $60.00 | $60.00 |
| 0–10 HP (tidal) | $16.00 | $16.00 |
| 11–50 HP (tidal) | $21.00 | $21.00 |
| 51–115 HP (tidal) | $27.00 | $27.00 |
| 116+ HP (tidal) | $35.00 | $35.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 5.5%
Title Fee: $33.00
How to Register Your Boat in Maine
To register a boat in Maine, you must apply within Before launching of purchase through the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IF&W). Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 1 year (January 1 – December 31).
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IF&W) portal
- In Person: At your local Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IF&W) 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
Maine requires a boat title for boats with model year within the last 25 years (model year 2001+ as of 2026). The title application fee is $33.00, and transfers cost $33.00.
Title required: Yes — Boats with model year within the last 25 years (model year 2001+ as of 2026)
Title application fee: $33.00
Title transfer fee: $33.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Bill of Sale with serial/HIN number
- Previous title or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin
- Valid photo ID
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Registration Renewal
Validity period: 1 year (January 1 – December 31)
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
Maine requires a boater safety course. Persons born on or after January 1, 1999, must complete a boater safety course to operate a motorboat 25+ HP or PWC. The minimum age to operate a vessel is 12.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: Persons born on or after January 1, 1999, must complete a boater safety course to operate a motorboat 25+ HP or PWC
Accepted courses: Maine IF&W approved courses, online providers
Course cost: Varies by provider
Minimum age to operate: 12 years old
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: ME 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 Maine Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maine | $16.00 | 1 year (January 1 – December 31) | Yes | 5.5% |
| New Hampshire | $47.50 | 1 year (expires December 31) | No | 0% |
Maine Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Maine?
Why are inland registration fees higher in Maine?
Is boater education required in Maine?
Do non-residents need the milfoil sticker in Maine?
Does Maine require boat titles?
When does boat registration expire in Maine?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Maine? Visit the official Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IF&W) 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 Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IF&W) at 207-287-8000 for the most current information.