Vessel Types & Exemptions
In New York, all motorboats regardless of size or motor type (electric or fuel-driven). There are 4 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorboats regardless of size or motor type (electric or fuel-driven)
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized boats
- Lifeboats and commercial vessels
- Boats used exclusively for racing
- Boats from another state not kept in NY for more than 90 consecutive days
Registration Fees & Costs
New York boat registration fees range from $22.50 to $75.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 4% sales tax, and title fees are $50.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| < 16 ft (3-yr) | $22.50 | $22.50 |
| 16–25 ft (3-yr) | $45.00 | $45.00 |
| 26+ ft (3-yr) | $75.00 | $75.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 4%
Title Fee: $50.00
How to Register Your Boat in New York
To register a boat in New York, you must apply within Before operating on public waters of purchase through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / OPRHP. Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 3 years.
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / OPRHP portal
- In Person: At your local New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / OPRHP 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 York requires a boat title for boats model year 1987 and newer, at least 14 feet long, registered in ny. The title application fee is $50.00, and transfers cost $50.00.
Title required: Yes — Boats model year 1987 and newer, at least 14 feet long, registered in NY
Title application fee: $50.00
Title transfer fee: $50.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale
- Proof of sales tax payment
- 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
New York requires a boater safety course. All motorboat operators regardless of age must possess a NY boating safety certificate (Brianna's Law, fully effective January 1, 2025). The minimum age to operate a vessel is 10.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: All motorboat operators regardless of age must possess a NY boating safety certificate (Brianna's Law, fully effective January 1, 2025)
Accepted courses: OPRHP approved courses, NASBLA-approved online providers
Course cost: Free (NYS Parks) or paid online providers; 8+ hours classroom + proctored exam
Minimum age to operate: 10 years old
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: NY 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 York Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $22.50 | 3 years | Yes | 4% |
| Connecticut | $75.00 | 1 year | Yes | 6.35% |
| Massachusetts | $44.00 | 2 years | Yes | 6.25% |
| New Jersey | $12.00 | 1 year | Yes | 6.625% |
| Pennsylvania | $22.00 | 2 years | Yes | 6% |
| Vermont | $33.00 | 1 year or 2 years | Yes | 6% |
New York Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in New York?
Do I need a boating safety certificate in New York?
Do I need a title for my boat in New York?
Can non-residents operate boats in New York?
How long is boat registration valid in New York?
What is Brianna's Law?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in New York? Visit the official New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / OPRHP 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 York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / OPRHP at 518-486-9786 for the most current information.