Quick answer
In Massachusetts, registration is required for: All motorized vessels on Massachusetts waters. Registration is handled by the Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP), is valid for 2 years, and costs $44.00 to $110.00 before any purchase tax or local add-ons.
Official source: Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) · Last checked in site data: March 13, 2026 · All official state agencies
Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Massachusetts, registration is required for: All motorized vessels on Massachusetts waters. There are 2 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorized vessels on Massachusetts waters
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized vessels (canoes, kayaks, sailboats under 14 ft without motor)
- Non-resident non-motorized vessels used 60 or fewer consecutive days
Registration Fees & Costs
Massachusetts boat registration fees range from $44.00 to $110.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 6.25% sales tax, and title fees are $0.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| < 16 ft (2-yr) | $44.00 | $44.00 |
| 16–25 ft (2-yr) | $66.00 | $66.00 |
| 26–39 ft (2-yr) | $88.00 | $88.00 |
| 40+ ft (2-yr) | $110.00 | $110.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 6.25%
Title Fee: $0.00
How to Register Your Boat in Massachusetts
To register a boat in Massachusetts, you must apply within Before operating on public waters of purchase through the Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP). Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 2 years.
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) portal
- In Person: At your local Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) 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
Massachusetts Boat Title & Title Transfer
Massachusetts requires a boat title for all vessels 14 feet or greater in length that require registration. The title application fee is $0.00, and transfers cost $0.00.
Title required: Yes — All vessels 14 feet or greater in length that require registration
Title application fee: $0.00
Title transfer fee: $0.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale
- Proof of sales tax payment
- HIN pencil tracing or digital photo
- Completed application
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Buying or Selling a Boat in Massachusetts
If you are selling a boat in Massachusetts, give the buyer a signed bill of sale, current registration records, and any title or ownership documents required by the Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP). 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 MA |
|---|---|
| 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 all vessels 14 feet or greater in length that require registration; title transfer fee is $0.00. |
| Tax | 6.25% 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.
Massachusetts Boat Registration Renewal
Validity period: 2 years
Massachusetts boat registration renewal follows the same agency channel as initial registration. Online renewal or online registration services are listed as available in current MA 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
Massachusetts requires a boater safety course. All operators of motorized vessels and PWC must carry a Boater Safety Certificate (Hanson-Milone Act). Born after 1/1/1989: by 4/1/2026; born on or before 1/1/1989: by 4/1/2028. The minimum age to operate a vessel is 12.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: All operators of motorized vessels and PWC must carry a Boater Safety Certificate (Hanson-Milone Act). Born after 1/1/1989: by 4/1/2026; born on or before 1/1/1989: by 4/1/2028
Accepted courses: Massachusetts approved courses, NASBLA-approved online providers
Course cost: Varies by provider
Minimum age to operate: 12 years old
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: MA 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 Massachusetts Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $44.00 | 2 years | Yes | 6.25% |
| Connecticut | $75.00 | 1 year | Yes | 6.35% |
| New Hampshire | $47.50 | 1 year (expires December 31) | No | 0% |
| New York | $22.50 | 3 years | Yes | 4% |
| Rhode Island | $32.00 | 2 years (March 1 to last day of February) | Yes | 7% |
| Vermont | $33.00 | 1 year or 2 years | Yes | 6% |
Massachusetts Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Massachusetts?
Is boater education mandatory in Massachusetts?
Do I need a title for my boat in Massachusetts?
How long is boat registration valid in Massachusetts?
Can non-residents operate boats in Massachusetts?
What age can you operate a boat in Massachusetts?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Massachusetts? Visit the official Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) 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 Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) at 508-564-4961 for the most current information.