Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Alabama, all mechanically propelled boats, sailboats, and boats for hire. There are 3 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All mechanically propelled boats, sailboats, and boats for hire
Exempt from registration:
- Boats registered in another state temporarily using Alabama waters
- Non-motorized vessels not for hire
- Vessels used exclusively on private ponds
Registration Fees & Costs
Alabama boat registration fees range from $25.00 to $105.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 4% sales tax, and title fees are $20.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 (< 16 ft) | $18.00 | $25.00 |
| Class 2 (16–25 ft) | $23.00 | $30.00 |
| Class 3 (26–39 ft) | $73.00 | $80.00 |
| Class 4 (40+ ft) | $98.00 | $105.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 4%
Title Fee: $20.00
How to Register Your Boat in Alabama
To register a boat in Alabama, you must apply within Within 15 days of purchase of purchase through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Marine Patrol Division. Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 1 year (October 1 – September 30).
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Marine Patrol Division portal
- In Person: At your local Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Marine Patrol Division 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
Alabama requires a boat title for vessels built after december 31, 2023, for which alabama is the state of principal use, or vessels under 18 feet with engines of 75+ hp. The title application fee is $20.00, and transfers cost $20.00.
Title required: Yes — Vessels built after December 31, 2023, for which Alabama is the state of principal use, or vessels under 18 feet with engines of 75+ HP
Title application fee: $20.00
Title transfer fee: $20.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title signed by seller (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale
- Valid photo ID
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Registration Renewal
Validity period: 1 year (October 1 – September 30)
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
Alabama requires a boater safety course. All operators age 12 and older of motorized boats must have a vessel operator's license. The minimum age to operate a vessel is 12.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: All operators age 12 and older of motorized boats must have a vessel operator's license
Accepted courses: Boat Ed, BoaterExam.com, ALEA Marine Patrol in-person classes
Course cost: Free (ALEA in-person) or $29.95+ (online providers)
Minimum age to operate: 12 years old
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: AL 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 Alabama Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $25.00 | 1 year (October 1 – September 30) | Yes | 4% |
| Florida | $11.25 | 1 or 2 years | Yes | 6% |
| Georgia | $45.00 | 3 years | Yes | 4% |
| Mississippi | $10.99 | 3 years | No | 7% |
| Tennessee | $15.86 | 1, 2, or 3 years | No | 7% |
Alabama Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Alabama?
Do I need a title for my boat in Alabama?
Do I need a boating license in Alabama?
Can I register my boat online in Alabama?
When does boat registration expire in Alabama?
Can non-residents operate boats in Alabama?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Alabama? Visit the official Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Marine Patrol Division 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 Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Marine Patrol Division at 334-242-4445 for the most current information.