Quick answer
In Alaska, registration is required for: All motorized vessels, barges, sport fishing guide boats, and tenders principally used in Alaska. Registration is handled by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / Office of Boating Safety, is valid for 3 years, and costs $10.00 to $75.00 before any purchase tax or local add-ons.
Official source: Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / Office of Boating Safety · Last checked in site data: March 13, 2026 · All official state agencies
Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Alaska, registration is required for: All motorized vessels, barges, sport fishing guide boats, and tenders principally used in Alaska. There are 4 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorized vessels, barges, sport fishing guide boats, and tenders principally used in Alaska
Exempt from registration:
- Non-powered boats (unless used for sport fishing guiding or with auxiliary power)
- Ship's lifeboats, seaplanes, inspected passenger vessels
- Government-owned boats
- Non-residents with valid home-state registration for up to 90 consecutive days
Registration Fees & Costs
Alaska boat registration fees range from $10.00 to $75.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 0% sales tax, and title fees are $20.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Powered boat (3-yr) | $24.00 | $24.00 |
| Non-powered boat (3-yr) | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Barge (3-yr) | $75.00 | $75.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 0%
Title Fee: $20.00
How to Register Your Boat in Alaska
To register a boat in Alaska, you must apply within Before operating on public waters of purchase through the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / Office of Boating Safety. Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 3 years.
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / Office of Boating Safety portal
- In Person: At your local Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / Office of Boating Safety 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
Alaska Boat Title & Title Transfer
Alaska requires a boat title for undocumented boats over 24 feet in length; boats previously USCG-documented now subject to state registration. Optional for boats 24 ft and under.. The title application fee is $20.00, and transfers cost $20.00.
Title required: Yes — Undocumented boats over 24 feet in length; boats previously USCG-documented now subject to state registration. Optional for boats 24 ft and under.
Title application fee: $20.00
Title transfer fee: $20.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title or registration (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale or CG-1261 Builder's Certification
- Valid photo ID
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Buying or Selling a Boat in Alaska
If you are selling a boat in Alaska, give the buyer a signed bill of sale, current registration records, and any title or ownership documents required by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / Office of Boating Safety. If you are buying, do not rely on the seller's word alone: match the Hull Identification Number (HIN) on the paperwork to the boat and confirm whether liens or title defects exist before paying.
| Transfer item | What to prepare in AK |
|---|---|
| Seller | Signed bill of sale, current registration, and release of interest. Sign the existing title exactly as the owner name appears. |
| Buyer | Photo ID, application, payment for registration fees, tax if due, and proof of ownership. Verify the HIN before filing. |
| Title | Required for undocumented boats over 24 feet in length; boats previously USCG-documented now subject to state registration. Optional for boats 24 ft and under.; title transfer fee is $20.00. |
| Tax | 0% sales or use tax may apply. |
For buyer and seller paperwork, use the boat bill of sale template, check how to look for liens, and compare boat title transfer fees by state.
Alaska Boat Registration Renewal
Validity period: 3 years
Alaska boat registration renewal follows the same agency channel as initial registration. Online renewal or online registration services are listed as available in current AK state data. Renew before the expiration date to avoid operating with expired registration.
For more details, see our Boat Registration Renewal Guide.
Boater Safety Education Requirements
Alaska does not require a boater safety course for boat operators.
Required: No
Who must complete it: Alaska does not mandate boater education. The Office of Boating Safety strongly recommends completing a safety course. Operators under 14 must be accompanied by an adult in state park waters.
Accepted courses: BoatUS Foundation (free), NASBLA-approved online providers
Course cost: Free (BoatUS Foundation) or paid online options
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: AK 1234 AB
Minimum font height: 3 inches minimum
Font style: Block letters, contrasting color to hull
Placement: Both sides of bow, forward half, left to right
Sticker placement: Within 6 inches of registration number
For federal rules on registration number display, see our Number Display Rules Guide.
Alaska Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Alaska?
Do I need a title for my boat in Alaska?
Is boater education required in Alaska?
Can non-residents operate boats in Alaska?
Does Alaska have sales tax on boats?
How long is boat registration valid in Alaska?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Alaska? Visit the official Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / Office of Boating Safety 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 Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / Office of Boating Safety at 907-269-5551 for the most current information.