Quick answer
In New Jersey, registration is required for: All motorized vessels on New Jersey waters. Registration is handled by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) / State Police, is valid for 1 year, and costs $12.00 to $250.00 before any purchase tax or local add-ons.
Official source: New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) / State Police · Last checked in site data: March 13, 2026 · All official state agencies
Vessel Types & Exemptions
In New Jersey, registration is required for: All motorized vessels on New Jersey waters. There are 2 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorized vessels on New Jersey waters
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized vessels
- Non-resident vessels registered in another state used fewer than 180 days
Registration Fees & Costs
New Jersey boat registration fees range from $12.00 to $250.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 6.625% sales tax, and title fees are $60.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| < 16 ft | $12.00 | $12.00 |
| 16–25 ft | $28.00 | $28.00 |
| 26–39 ft | $52.00 | $52.00 |
| 40–64 ft | $80.00 | $80.00 |
| 65+ ft | $250.00 | $250.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 6.625%
Title Fee: $60.00
How to Register Your Boat in New Jersey
To register a boat in New Jersey, you must apply within 10 business days (title); registration before operating of purchase through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) / State Police. Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 1 year.
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) / State Police portal
- In Person: At your local New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) / State Police 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
New Jersey Boat Title & Title Transfer
New Jersey requires a boat title for all vessels over 12 feet in length. The title application fee is $60.00, and transfers cost $60.00.
Title required: Yes — All vessels over 12 feet in length
Title application fee: $60.00
Title transfer fee: $60.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title signed by seller (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.
Buying or Selling a Boat in New Jersey
If you are selling a boat in New Jersey, give the buyer a signed bill of sale, current registration records, and any title or ownership documents required by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) / State Police. 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 NJ |
|---|---|
| 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 over 12 feet in length; title transfer fee is $60.00. |
| Tax | 6.625% 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.
New Jersey Boat Registration Renewal
Validity period: 1 year
New Jersey boat registration renewal follows the same agency channel as initial registration. Online renewal or online registration services are listed as available in current NJ 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
New Jersey requires a boater safety course. All operators of motorized vessels must possess a NJ Boat Safety Certificate plus an $18 boat license endorsement on driver's license. The minimum age to operate a vessel is 16.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: All operators of motorized vessels must possess a NJ Boat Safety Certificate plus an $18 boat license endorsement on driver's license
Accepted courses: NJ State Police approved courses, NASBLA-approved providers (online + proctored exam required)
Course cost: $35-$60 course + $18 license endorsement
Minimum age to operate: 16 years old
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: NJ 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 New Jersey Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $12.00 | 1 year | Yes | 6.625% |
| Delaware | $20.00 | 1 year or 3 years | No | 0% |
| New York | $22.50 | 3 years | Yes | 4% |
| Pennsylvania | $22.00 | 2 years | Yes | 6% |
New Jersey Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in New Jersey?
Do I need a title for my boat in New Jersey?
Is boater education required in New Jersey?
How long can non-residents use boats in New Jersey?
What is the minimum age to operate a boat in New Jersey?
Do I need a boat license endorsement in New Jersey?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in New Jersey? Visit the official New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) / State Police 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 New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) / State Police at 609-292-6500 for the most current information.