Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Missouri, all motorized boats and sailboats longer than 12 feet on missouri waters. There are 2 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorized boats and sailboats longer than 12 feet on Missouri waters
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized vessels 12 feet or less
- Vessels from another state temporarily in Missouri
Registration Fees & Costs
Missouri boat registration fees range from $25.00 to $150.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 4.225% sales tax, and title fees are $7.50.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| < 16 ft (3-yr) | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| 16–25 ft (3-yr) | $55.00 | $55.00 |
| 26–39 ft (3-yr) | $100.00 | $100.00 |
| 40+ ft (3-yr) | $150.00 | $150.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 4.225%
Title Fee: $7.50
How to Register Your Boat in Missouri
To register a boat in Missouri, you must apply within 30 days from acquisition of purchase through the Missouri Department of Revenue / State Highway Patrol Water Patrol Division. Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 3 years.
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Missouri Department of Revenue / State Highway Patrol Water Patrol Division portal
- In Person: At your local Missouri Department of Revenue / State Highway Patrol Water Patrol Division 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
Missouri requires a boat title for all motorized boats and sailboats longer than 12 feet. The title application fee is $7.50, and transfers cost $7.50.
Title required: Yes — All motorized boats and sailboats longer than 12 feet
Title application fee: $7.50
Title transfer fee: $7.50
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale
- Proof of sales tax payment (4.225% state + local)
- $9 processing fee
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
Missouri requires a boater safety course. Anyone born after January 1, 1984, must complete a Missouri Boater Education class or pass a test before operating any motorized vessel on Missouri lakes.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: Anyone born after January 1, 1984, must complete a Missouri Boater Education class or pass a test before operating any motorized vessel on Missouri lakes
Accepted courses: MO State Highway Patrol Water Patrol-approved courses, NASBLA-approved providers
Course cost: Free (classroom by marine troopers) or paid online; $15 boater ID card from Water Patrol
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: MO 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 Missouri Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | $25.00 | 3 years | Yes | 4.225% |
| Arkansas | $7.50 | 3 years | Yes | 6.5% |
| Illinois | $18.00 | 3 years | Yes | 6.25% |
| Iowa | $17.65 | 3 years (May 1 to April 30 cycle) | Yes | 6% |
| Kansas | $42.50 | 3 years | No | 6.5% |
| Kentucky | $32.20 | 1 year (expires April 30) | Yes | 6% |
| Nebraska | $32.00 | 3 years | Yes | 5.5% |
| 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% |
Missouri Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Missouri?
Do I need a title for my boat in Missouri?
Is boater education required in Missouri?
Does Missouri charge annual property tax on boats?
Can non-residents operate boats on Missouri lakes?
How long is boat registration valid in Missouri?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Missouri? Visit the official Missouri Department of Revenue / State Highway Patrol Water Patrol Division website or use our tools to estimate costs.
Related Resources
- Arkansas Boat Registration
- Illinois Boat Registration
- Iowa Boat Registration
- Kansas Boat Registration
- Kentucky Boat Registration
- Nebraska Boat Registration
- Oklahoma Boat Registration
- Tennessee 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 Missouri Department of Revenue / State Highway Patrol Water Patrol Division at 573-751-4509 for the most current information.