How to Register a Boat in Florida

Registering a boat in Florida might not be as easy as it is with a car, but it’s still a relatively straightforward process. Whether you’ve just purchased a new boat or a used one, the following steps will guide you through the registration entire process.

What Are the Prerequisites for Boat Registration in Florida?

Before you can register your boat in Florida, you need to have proof of ownership. This can be a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO), a Builder’s Certificate, or an executed bill of sale. You will also need to provide a complete description of the vessel, including the hull identification number.

How to Register a New Boat in Florida?

Registering a new boat in Florida involves several steps that I have listed below:

1. Obtain Proof of Ownership: For a new boat, you will need a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) or a Builder’s Certificate as proof of ownership.
2. Visit Your Local Tax Collector or License Plate Agent Office: You must apply for titling and registration at your local tax collector or license plate agent office.
3. Title the Vessel: A Florida Certificate of Title must be issued prior to registration. In addition to the appropriate titling fee, you have to present proof of ownership documents.
4. Pay the Vessel Registration Fee: The registration fee depends on the length of your boat. You can choose to register your boat for one or two years.
5. Pay Sales Tax (If Applicable): If you haven’t already paid the sales tax, you will need to pay it during the registration process.

How to Register a Used Boat in Florida?

The process of registering a used boat in Florida is similar to that of a new boat. However, for a used boat, you will need an executed bill of sale rather than a statement from the boat’s manufacturer:

1. Obtain Proof of Ownership: For a used boat, you will need an executed bill of sale, a federal marine document, or other acceptable documents as proof of ownership.
2. Visit Your Local Tax Collector or License Plate Agent Office: You must apply for titling and registration at your local tax collector or license plate agent office.
3. Title the Vessel: A Florida Certificate of Title must be issued prior to registration. In addition to the appropriate titling fee, you have to present proof of ownership documents.
4. Pay the Vessel Registration Fee: The registration fee depends on the length of your boat. You can choose to register your boat for one or two years.
5. Pay Sales Tax (If Applicable): If you haven’t already paid the sales tax, you will need to pay it during the registration process.

Remember that you have 30 days after purchasing a boat to title and register it. Failure to register within this period may result in penalties.

See also: Where to place your boat registration numbers

What Are the Fees Associated with Boat Registration in Florida?

The registration fee for your boat in Florida depends on its length.

Class	Length	Registration Fee	Reduced Fee (with EPIRB or PLB)
Class A-1	Less than 12 feet	$5.50	$2.95
Class A-2	12 to less than 16 feet	$16.25	$11.00
Class 1	16 to less than 26 feet	$28.75	$20.40
Class 2	26 to less than 40 feet	$78.25	$57.50
Class 3	40 to less than 65 feet	$127.75	$94.95
Class 4	65 to less than 110 feet	$152.75	$113.40
Class 5	110 or more in length	$189.75	$141.15
Dealer Registration	N/A	$25.50	N/A

These fees do not include additional service fees, such as a $2.25 service fee and a $0.50 FRVIS fee. An additional $50 commercial vessel license fee is required for non-residents or aliens unless specifically exempted.

The fees collected are used to support the cost of maintaining and improving Florida’s boating infrastructure. In addition to the registration fee, you may also need to pay a titling fee and sales tax. Some counties may also charge an optional county fee.

How to Renew Your Boat Registration in Florida?

Boat registrations in Florida are valid for one or two years and must be renewed annually or biennially. You can renew your boat registration online, by mail, or in person at a local tax collector or license plate agent office. You will need to provide your current registration or renewal notice and pay the appropriate renewal fee.

Florida Boat Registration Renewal Fees:

Boat Length	1-12 months	13-15 months	16-24 months	25-27 months
Canoes and vessels less than 12 feet	$13.50	$21.75	$27.00	$40.50
12 feet to 15 feet 11 inches	$29.63	$54.01	$59.26	$88.89
16 feet to 25 feet 11 inches	$48.38	$91.51	$96.76	$145.14
26 feet to 39 feet 11 inches	$122.63	$240.01	$245.26	$367.89
40 feet to 64 feet 11 inches	$196.88	$388.51	$393.76	$590.64
65 feet to 109 feet 11 inches	$234.38	$463.51	$468.76	$702.14

These fees do not include additional service fees, such as a $2.25 service fee and a $0.50 FRVIS fee. An additional $50 commercial vessel license fee is required for non-residents or aliens unless specifically exempted.

What Happens If You Don’t Register Your Boat in Florida?

Failure to register your boat in Florida can result in penalties. If you are caught operating an unregistered vessel, you may be fined or even face criminal charges. Additionally, if you purchase a boat and fail to register it within 30 days, you may be subject to additional penalties.

Exemptions from Boat Registration in Florida

In Florida, the following types of vessels are exempt from boat registration:

• Non-motor-powered vessels less than 16 feet in length.
• Non-motor-powered canoes, kayaks, racing shells, or rowing sculls, regardless of length.
• Vessels operated, used, and stored exclusively on private lakes and ponds.
• Vessels owned by the United States government.
• Vessels are used exclusively as a ship’s lifeboat.
• Vessels from out of state with valid registration in full force and effect that are only in Florida for up to 90 days.

Keep in mind that these exemptions apply specifically to boat registration in Florida. If you plan to use your boat in other states, you should check their respective registration requirements.

What Are the Penalties for Not Registering Your Boat in Florida?

Operating an unregistered boat in Florida can result in fines and penalties. The severity of the penalty depends on the nature of the violation and whether it’s a repeat offense. In some cases, you may also have your boating privileges suspended.

Frequently Asked Questions About Boat Registration in Florida

This section can address common questions about boat registration in Florida.