Vessel Types & Exemptions
In New Mexico, all motorized and sail-powered vessels on new mexico waters. There are 2 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorized and sail-powered vessels on New Mexico waters
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized vessels under 10 feet
- Non-residents with valid home-state registration for up to 90 consecutive days
Registration Fees & Costs
New Mexico boat registration fees range from $60.00 to $180.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 5% sales tax, and title fees are $15.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| < 16 ft (3-yr) | $60.00 | $60.00 |
| 16–25 ft (3-yr) | $75.00 | $75.00 |
| 26–39 ft (3-yr) | $120.00 | $120.00 |
| 40–64 ft (3-yr) | $150.00 | $150.00 |
| 65+ ft (3-yr) | $180.00 | $180.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 5%
Title Fee: $15.00
How to Register Your Boat in New Mexico
To register a boat in New Mexico, you must apply within Before operating on public waters of purchase through the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue, Motor Vehicle Division / NM Department of Game and Fish. Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 3 years.
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue, Motor Vehicle Division / NM Department of Game and Fish portal
- In Person: At your local New Mexico Taxation and Revenue, Motor Vehicle Division / NM Department of Game and Fish 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
New Mexico requires a boat title for all motorized and sail-powered vessels 10 feet or longer. The title application fee is $15.00, and transfers cost $15.00.
Title required: Yes — All motorized and sail-powered vessels 10 feet or longer
Title application fee: $15.00
Title transfer fee: $15.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale
- 5% excise tax on sales price
- Apply within 30 days of purchase
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
New Mexico requires a boater safety course. Anyone born on or after January 1, 1989, who operates a motorized boat, sailboat, or PWC must complete an approved boater education course.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: Anyone born on or after January 1, 1989, who operates a motorized boat, sailboat, or PWC must complete an approved boater education course
Accepted courses: NM-approved courses, NASBLA-approved online providers
Course cost: Varies by provider
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: NM 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 New Mexico Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $60.00 | 3 years | Yes | 5% |
| Arizona | $20.00 | 1 year (12 months) | No | 5.6% |
| Colorado | $60.25 | 1 year (January 1 – December 31) | No | 2.9% |
| Oklahoma | $3.25 | 1 year or 3 years (July 1 – June 30) | Yes | 4.5% |
| Texas | $32.00 | 2 years | Yes | 6.25% |
| Utah | $45.50 | 1 year (annual renewal) | Yes | 6.1% |
New Mexico Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in New Mexico?
Do I need a title for my boat in New Mexico?
Is boater education required in New Mexico?
Can non-residents operate boats in New Mexico?
When were NM registration fees last updated?
Do motorboats under 10 feet need a title in New Mexico?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in New Mexico? Visit the official New Mexico Taxation and Revenue, Motor Vehicle Division / NM Department of Game and Fish 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 New Mexico Taxation and Revenue, Motor Vehicle Division / NM Department of Game and Fish at 505-827-7700 for the most current information.