The Texas Boat Registration Guide: How to Register

From fishing and wakesurfing to leisurely cruises along the coast, Texans love to enjoy our pristine waters. But before you head out, it’s important to make sure your Texas boat registration is up to date. While not every boat needs to be registered, most boats with motors must be registered with the state. 

Wondering how to register a boat in Texas? Our guide will cover everything you need to know to get your boat legal for the water without any surprise fees at the ramp! 

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How to Register a Boat in Texas

All Texas boat registrations go through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. To register your boat, follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Gather your documents. You’ll need proof of ownership (such as a manufacturer’s certificate of origin, previous title, or bill of sale), your driver’s license or other valid photo ID, and a completed Vessel/Boat Application (Form PWD 143) and/or Outboard Motor Application (Form PWD 144). If you’re titling and registering an out-of-state vessel, you’ll need the old registration and Verification of Vessel or Outboard Motor Serial Number (Form PWD 504). For vessels that have never been titled, registered, or documented, bring a completed Affidavit of Fact (Form PWD 314). 
2. Pay the fees, which are due at the time of application. You can pay by cash, check or credit card, depending on the office. 
3. Get your registration sticker. You’ll receive a decal to place on your boat on the port side of the bow. 
4. Display your registration numbers. Texas assigns a registration number that must be painted or applied as decals on the forward half of both sides of the hull. The numbers need to be in block letters at least 3 inches high and in a color that contrasts with the boat. 

Once you’ve got your registration numbers and decal in place, you’re ready to hit Texas lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. 

What Boats Need to Be Registered in Texas?

The following vessels need Texas boat registration before they can be used legally on public Texas waters:

• All motorized boats must be titled and registered, no matter the length. Even boats with outboard/trolling motors have to be registered
• Any sailboat over 14 feet long or that uses a motor 
• Any non-motorized boat over 14 feet long
• U.S. Coast Guard documented vessels

Boats that are exempt from registration include:

Non-motorized boats under 14 feet long, including canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, punts, rowboats, or rubber rafts

• USCG documented vessels that are used in coastal shipping

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Texas Boat Registration Cost

The cost to register your boat in Texas depends on its length. Texas sets fees based on the overall length from the tip of the bow to the stern, excluding outboard motors. Here’s  a breakdown of the costs:

• Original and renewal registration:
  • Less than 16 feet: $32
  • 16 feet to less than 26 feet: $53
  • 26 feet to less than 40 feet: $110
  • 40 feet or more: $150
• Vessel/outboard motor title: $27
• Registration transfer fee: $11
• Replacement registration card: $11
• Replacement decals and registration card: $22
• Replacement title: $27
• Taxes: 
  • New Texas residents: $15
  • Sales/use: 6.25% of the purchase price

How Often Do You Need to Register Your Boat?

Texas boat registration is valid for 2 years. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will send a notice when it’s time to renew. You can renew online, by mail, or in person. The notice typically comes 4 to 6 weeks before your registration expires. If you let your registration lapse, you’ll pay a $10 late fee on top of the renewal cost.  

Texas Boat Trailer Registration

While most people remember to register their boats, many boat owners forget about the trailer. Your boat trailer is treated like any other vehicle trailer in Texas and must be registered annually with the TxDMV, not with TPWD. 

To register your boat trailer:

• Determine the weight class (for example, under 4,500 lbs or over 7,000 lbs). You may need to provide a certificate of weight.
• Bring proof of ownership, such as the manufacturer’s certificate, a previous title, or bill of sale, to your local tax collector’s office.
• Complete Form 130-U Application for Title and/or Registration. 
• Pay the required fees, which will depend on the weight of the trailer and the county you’re in. Expect to pay $45 for trailers up to 6,000 lbs.
• The TxDMV will provide a license plate for your boat trailer along with a registration sticker. This is separate from your boat registration sticker and is not interchangeable.

Hit the Water in Style with Tipton Ford

Buying a boat is exciting, but before you take it for a spin, make sure your boat and trailer are properly registered. To legally operate your boat on Texas public waters, you’ll need a current boat registration sticker and a current trailer registration and plate. 

Need a vehicle that can haul your boat? Come visit Tipton Ford in Brownsville today! We have a huge selection of F-150 and Super Duty inventory to tow your boat. Our team will make sure you leave with everything you need for your next day on the water. We’re located in Brownsville, but we serve the entire state, including McAllen, Harlingen, and even places like Corpus Christi and San Antonio. 

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