You bought a boat or moved to Florida with your vessel. Now you need to make it legal on the water. The process to register a boat in Florida can feel confusing with different requirements for titling versus registration, various forms to fill out, and fees that vary by boat length. Add in questions about where to go and what documents you need, and it’s easy to put off the task.
The good news? Registering your boat takes less time than you think. Florida’s process is straightforward once you know the steps. You’ll visit your county tax collector office, bring the right paperwork, pay the fees, and walk out with your registration. Most people complete everything in one visit.
This guide walks you through each step to register your vessel. You’ll learn which boats need registration, what documents to bring, how much you’ll pay, and where to display your numbers and decal. We’ll also cover titling requirements and help you understand the difference between the two. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to get your boat legally on Florida waters.
Check if your vessel requires registration
Not every boat needs registration in Florida. Understanding which vessels require it saves you time and money while keeping you compliant with state law. The requirement depends on your vessel’s size, power source, and how you use it.
Vessels that need registration
You must register a boat in florida if it has any type of motor attached, regardless of how small the engine. This includes gas engines, electric trolling motors, and outboard motors of all sizes. Sailboats longer than 16 feet also require registration, even without a motor. Personal watercraft like jet skis always need registration because they have built-in motors.
The registration requirement applies to:
- Any boat with a motor (gas, electric, or diesel)
- Sailboats over 16 feet in length
- Personal watercraft like jet skis and wave runners
- Pontoon boats and houseboats with motors
Vessels exempt from registration
Some vessels skip the registration process entirely. Non-motorized boats shorter than 16 feet fall into this category, which includes most canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and rowboats. Vessels documented with the U.S. Coast Guard also avoid state registration, though you still pay annual county taxes on them.
If you add a motor to a previously exempt vessel, you must register it within 30 days.
Other exempt vessels include government-owned ships and those used exclusively on private lakes or ponds. Racing shells, rowing sculls, and race boats recognized by the U.S. Rowing Association also avoid the requirement. Once you confirm your vessel needs registration, you can move forward with gathering the necessary paperwork.
Step 1. Gather necessary documents
The documents you need depend on whether you bought a new or used boat and where you purchased it. Collecting everything before visiting the tax collector saves you multiple trips and speeds up the process. Most sellers provide some paperwork, but you’re responsible for ensuring you have all required items.
Required documents for all boats
You need proof of ownership to register a boat in florida. For new boats, bring the manufacturer’s statement of origin (MSO) and your sales receipt. Used boats require a signed title from the previous owner or a notarized bill of sale if the boat was never titled. Add a valid photo ID like your driver’s license or passport to confirm your identity.
Florida residents must complete Form HSMV 82040 (Application for Certificate of Title). Download it from your county tax collector website or pick one up at their office. If the boat has a lien, bring lien holder information including their name, address, and the loan amount.
Additional paperwork for specific situations
Boats purchased out of state need extra documentation. You’ll submit the out-of-state title plus Form HSMV 87002 for sales tax purposes. Homemade vessels require a builder’s affidavit describing the construction details and materials used.
Keep copies of all documents you submit for your records.
Step 2. Apply at a tax collector office
You submit your application in person at any Florida county tax collector office during regular business hours. The process works the same whether you register a boat in florida for the first time or renew an existing registration. Bring all your documents in a folder to stay organized and make the submission smooth.
Where to submit your application
Your county tax collector office handles all boat registrations. You can visit any office in your county, not just the one closest to your home. Most counties run multiple locations to serve residents better. Call ahead to confirm hours since some offices close during lunch or have shortened Friday schedules.
Search for your county tax collector website to find addresses and contact information. Many offices also handle vehicle registrations, property taxes, and licenses, so expect some wait time during busy periods. Plan to visit on weekday mornings for shorter lines.
What happens during your visit
The clerk reviews your documents and enters your information into the state system. They verify your proof of ownership matches the vessel details you provide. You’ll sign the title application and confirm your mailing address for the registration renewal notice.
Bring exact change or a card since not all offices accept large bills.
The entire process takes 15 to 30 minutes once you reach the counter. You leave with a temporary registration that stays valid until your permanent documents arrive by mail.
Step 3. Pay the title and registration fees
The fees to register a boat in florida combine several charges into one payment. You pay for both the title and registration at the same visit, plus any applicable sales tax on your purchase. The registration amount varies based on your vessel’s length, while the title fee stays constant. Your total cost also includes a handling fee that covers administrative processing.
Fee breakdown by vessel length
Registration costs increase with your boat’s size. Vessels under 12 feet pay the lowest rate, while larger boats up to 65 feet pay progressively more. Your clerk calculates the exact amount based on the length measurement on your title or manufacturer’s statement.
| Vessel Length | Registration Fee | Title Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Under 12 feet | $5.50 | $5.25 |
| 12 to <16 feet | $11.50 | $5.25 |
| 16 to <26 feet | $20.50 | $5.25 |
| 26 to <40 feet | $53.50 | $5.25 |
| 40 to <65 feet | $111.50 | $5.25 |
| 65 feet and over | $153.50 | $5.25 |
First-time buyers often underestimate the sales tax portion, which typically exceeds the registration fee.
Payment methods accepted
Most tax collector offices accept cash, checks, and major credit cards including Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. Some locations add a convenience fee for card payments, usually 2 to 3 percent of your total. Bring multiple payment options in case one method has issues or you want to avoid extra charges.
Step 4. Attach the decal and numbers
You receive your permanent registration card and validation decal by mail within 2 to 4 weeks after you register a boat in florida. The state also issues your boat registration numbers that identify your vessel on the water. Florida law requires you to display these items correctly before operating your boat. Law enforcement officers check for proper display during routine inspections and safety checks.
Displaying your registration numbers
Your registration numbers appear on both sides of the bow in the forward half of your vessel. Paint or affix the numbers using block letters at least 3 inches high. Choose a color that contrasts sharply with your hull. White boats need black numbers, while dark boats need white or light-colored numbers. Space the letters and numbers to match this format: FL 1234 AB. Place a space or hyphen between the letter groups, but never within them.
Numbers must remain visible and unobstructed by dock lines, fenders, or other equipment.
Placing the registration decal
Stick your validation decal within 6 inches of your registration numbers on the port side (left side when facing forward). The decal shows your expiration date and proves your registration stays current. Replace it each time you renew. Clean the surface with rubbing alcohol before applying the new decal to ensure it sticks properly and lasts through sun exposure and water spray.
Ready to get on the water?
You’ve completed the process to register a boat in florida and your vessel displays the proper numbers and decal. Your registration stays valid for two years from the issue date. Mark your calendar to renew before the expiration to avoid late fees and penalties on the water. Keep your registration card on board at all times since law enforcement officers can request it during routine inspections or safety checks.
Now that your boat meets all legal requirements, you can explore Florida’s incredible waterways without any concerns. The Emerald Coast offers some of the clearest waters and most stunning beaches in the entire state. Discover Crab Island with your newly registered vessel and experience why this famous sandbar destination attracts thousands of boaters every season. Whether you bring your own boat or need equipment, Original Crab Island provides pontoon rentals, jet ski rentals, and guided tours to help you make the most of your time on the water.
