Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Michigan, all motorboats regardless of size or motor type (electric or fuel-driven). There are 2 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorboats regardless of size or motor type (electric or fuel-driven)
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized boats
- Vessels from another state temporarily in Michigan
Registration Fees & Costs
Michigan boat registration fees range from $14.00 to $448.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 6% sales tax, and title fees are $5.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| < 12 ft (3-yr) | $14.00 | $14.00 |
| 12–15 ft (3-yr) | $23.00 | $23.00 |
| 16–20 ft (3-yr) | $48.00 | $48.00 |
| 21–27 ft (3-yr) | $115.00 | $115.00 |
| 28–34 ft (3-yr) | $168.00 | $168.00 |
| 35–41 ft (3-yr) | $244.00 | $244.00 |
| 42–49 ft (3-yr) | $280.00 | $280.00 |
| 50+ ft (3-yr) | $448.00 | $448.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 6%
Title Fee: $5.00
How to Register Your Boat in Michigan
To register a boat in Michigan, you must apply within Before operating on public waters of purchase through the Michigan Department of State (Secretary of State) / DNR. Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 3 years (expires March 31 of third year).
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Michigan Department of State (Secretary of State) / DNR portal
- In Person: At your local Michigan Department of State (Secretary of State) / 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
Michigan requires a boat title for watercraft 20 feet and over, or with a permanently affixed engine (regardless of length). The title application fee is $5.00, and transfers cost $5.00.
Title required: Yes — Watercraft 20 feet and over, or with a permanently affixed engine (regardless of length)
Title application fee: $5.00
Title transfer fee: $5.00
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: 3 years (expires March 31 of third 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
Michigan requires a boater safety course. Persons born on or after July 1, 1996, must have a boating safety certificate to operate any motorboat; PWC operators born after December 31, 1978 also require certification.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: Persons born on or after July 1, 1996, must have a boating safety certificate to operate any motorboat; PWC operators born after December 31, 1978 also require certification
Accepted courses: Michigan DNR-approved courses (online and in-person)
Course cost: Varies by provider
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: MC 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 Michigan Compares to Neighboring States
Michigan Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Michigan?
Do I need a title for my boat in Michigan?
Is boater education required in Michigan?
How long is boat registration valid in Michigan?
Is there an annual tax on boats in Michigan?
Are fee increases planned for Michigan boats?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Michigan? Visit the official Michigan Department of State (Secretary of State) / 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 Michigan Department of State (Secretary of State) / DNR at 888-767-6424 for the most current information.