Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Arkansas, all motorboats, including those powered by trolling motors or sails, operating on public waters. There are 3 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorboats, including those powered by trolling motors or sails, operating on public waters
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized vessels not propelled by engine or sail
- Vessels registered in another state used in Arkansas for 90 or fewer consecutive days
- Vessels documented by the U.S. Coast Guard
Registration Fees & Costs
Arkansas boat registration fees range from $7.50 to $105.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 6.5% sales tax, and title fees are $10.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Motorboats < 16 ft | $7.50 | $7.50 |
| Motorboats 16–25 ft | $15.00 | $15.00 |
| Motorboats 26–39 ft | $51.00 | $51.00 |
| Motorboats 40+ ft | $105.00 | $105.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 6.5%
Title Fee: $10.00
How to Register Your Boat in Arkansas
To register a boat in Arkansas, you must apply within 30 days of purchase through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA). Online registration is not currently available. Registration is valid for 3 years.
Registration can be completed:
- In Person: At your local Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) 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
Arkansas requires a boat title for boats manufactured in 2020 and after (as of january 1, 2020). The title application fee is $10.00, and transfers cost $10.00.
Title required: Yes — Boats manufactured in 2020 and after (as of January 1, 2020)
Title application fee: $10.00
Title transfer fee: $10.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title or registration (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale
- Proof of paid property taxes
- Valid photo ID
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Registration Renewal
Validity period: 3 years
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
Arkansas requires a boater safety course. Anyone born on or after January 1, 1986, must complete an approved boater education course to operate a motorboat, PWC, or sailboat. The minimum age to operate a vessel is 12.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: Anyone born on or after January 1, 1986, must complete an approved boater education course to operate a motorboat, PWC, or sailboat
Accepted courses: Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) approved courses, Boat Ed, BoaterExam.com
Course cost: Free (AGFC classroom) or paid online providers
Minimum age to operate: 12 years old
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: AR 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 Arkansas Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $7.50 | 3 years | Yes | 6.5% |
| Louisiana | $36.00 | 3 years | Yes | 4.45% |
| Mississippi | $10.99 | 3 years | No | 7% |
| Missouri | $25.00 | 3 years | Yes | 4.225% |
| Oklahoma | $3.25 | 1 year or 3 years (July 1 – June 30) | Yes | 4.5% |
| Tennessee | $15.86 | 1, 2, or 3 years | No | 7% |
| Texas | $32.00 | 2 years | Yes | 6.25% |
Arkansas Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Arkansas?
Do I need a title for my boat in Arkansas?
Is a boating safety course required in Arkansas?
How long is boat registration valid in Arkansas?
Do non-residents need to register boats in Arkansas?
Do I need liability insurance for my boat in Arkansas?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Arkansas? Visit the official Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) website or use our tools to estimate costs.
Related Resources
- Louisiana Boat Registration
- Mississippi Boat Registration
- Missouri Boat Registration
- Oklahoma Boat Registration
- Tennessee Boat Registration
- Texas Boat Registration
- Compare Registration Costs Across All States
- How to Register a Boat: Step-by-Step Guide
- Boat Title Transfer Guide
- Registration Fee Calculator
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 Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) at 501-682-4692 for the most current information.