Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Oregon, all motorboats (regardless of length) and sailboats 12 feet and longer operated on oregon waters. There are 2 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorboats (regardless of length) and sailboats 12 feet and longer operated on Oregon waters
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized boats under 12 feet (kayaks, canoes) — waterway access permit required starting 2026
- Non-residents with valid home-state registration (AIS prevention permit required: $30/year)
Registration Fees & Costs
Oregon boat registration fees range from $115.10 to $138.90 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 0% sales tax, and title fees are $75.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Per-foot biennial rate (example: 18 ft boat) | $107.10 | $115.10 |
| Per-foot biennial rate (example: 22 ft boat) | $130.90 | $138.90 |
Sales Tax Rate: 0%
Title Fee: $75.00
How to Register Your Boat in Oregon
To register a boat in Oregon, you must apply within Before operating on public waters; late title transfer penalty ($25) if over 30 days of purchase through the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB). Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 2 years (biennial, expires December 31).
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) portal
- In Person: At your local Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) 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
Oregon requires a boat title for all motorboats (regardless of length) and sailboats 12 feet and longer. The title application fee is $75.00, and transfers cost $75.00.
Title required: Yes — All motorboats (regardless of length) and sailboats 12 feet and longer
Title application fee: $75.00
Title transfer fee: $75.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale
- Valid photo ID
- Late transfer penalty ($25) if submitted 30+ days after purchase
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Registration Renewal
Validity period: 2 years (biennial, expires 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
Oregon requires a boater safety course. All operators of motorboats with 10+ HP on Oregon waters must complete a state-approved boating safety course and carry a Boater Education Card; youth 12-15 must also complete the course. The minimum age to operate a vessel is 12.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: All operators of motorboats with 10+ HP on Oregon waters must complete a state-approved boating safety course and carry a Boater Education Card; youth 12-15 must also complete the course
Accepted courses: OSMB-approved courses, NASBLA-approved/USCG-recognized providers
Course cost: Varies by provider
Minimum age to operate: 12 years old
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: OR 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 Oregon Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon | $115.10 | 2 years (biennial, expires December 31) | Yes | 0% |
| California | $36.00 | 2 years | No | 7.25% |
| Idaho | $41.50 | 1 year (expires December 31) | Yes | 6% |
| Nevada | $20.00 | 1 year (expires December 31) | Yes | 6.85% |
| Washington | $43.25 | 1 year (annual renewal) | Yes | 6.5% |
Oregon Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Oregon?
Do I need a title for my boat in Oregon?
Is boater education required in Oregon?
Do non-residents need an AIS permit in Oregon?
How are Oregon registration fees calculated?
Does Oregon have sales tax on boats?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Oregon? Visit the official Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) 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 Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) at 503-378-8587 for the most current information.