Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Indiana, all motorized watercraft and sailboats with auxiliary motors on indiana waterways. There are 2 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorized watercraft and sailboats with auxiliary motors on Indiana waterways
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized vessels (canoes, kayaks)
- Vessels from another state temporarily on Indiana waters
Registration Fees & Costs
Indiana boat registration fees range from $25.00 to $49.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 7% sales tax, and title fees are $15.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| 0–12 ft (initial) | $15.00 | $25.00 |
| 13–25 ft (initial) | $18.00 | $33.00 |
| 26–39 ft (initial) | $21.00 | $41.00 |
| 40+ ft (initial) | $24.00 | $49.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 7%
Title Fee: $15.00
How to Register Your Boat in Indiana
To register a boat in Indiana, you must apply within Before operating on public waters of purchase through the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) / Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 1 year.
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) / Department of Natural Resources (DNR) portal
- In Person: At your local Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) / Department of Natural Resources (DNR) 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
Indiana requires a boat title for all vessels requiring registration, with exceptions for pre-1986 boats and vessels valued under $3,000 when new. The title application fee is $15.00, and transfers cost $15.00.
Title required: Yes — All vessels requiring registration, with exceptions for pre-1986 boats and vessels valued under $3,000 when new
Title application fee: $15.00
Title transfer fee: $15.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale
- Proof of sales tax payment
- Valid photo ID
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Registration Renewal
Validity period: 1 year
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
Indiana requires a boater safety course. Persons 15+ without a valid driver's license who operate a motorboat or PWC must complete a DNR-approved boater education course.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: Persons 15+ without a valid driver's license who operate a motorboat or PWC must complete a DNR-approved boater education course
Accepted courses: Indiana DNR-approved courses (online and in-person)
Course cost: Varies by provider
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: IN 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 Indiana Compares to Neighboring States
Indiana Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Indiana?
Do I need a title for my boat in Indiana?
Is boater education required in Indiana?
What is the boat excise tax in Indiana?
Do I need a lake permit in Indiana?
Can non-residents operate boats in Indiana?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Indiana? Visit the official Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) / Department of Natural Resources (DNR) 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 Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) / Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at 888-692-6841 for the most current information.