Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Ohio, all watercraft on ohio waters, including motorized, sailboats, and hand-powered vessels. There are 1 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All watercraft on Ohio waters, including motorized, sailboats, and hand-powered vessels
Exempt from registration:
- Vessels from another state temporarily on Ohio waters
Registration Fees & Costs
Ohio boat registration fees range from $20.00 to $93.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 5.75% sales tax, and title fees are $15.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Hand-powered (3-yr, traditional) | $20.00 | $20.00 |
| Hand-powered (3-yr, alternative — no OH numbers) | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| Motorized < 16 ft (3-yr) | $33.00 | $33.00 |
| Motorized 16–25 ft (3-yr) | $48.00 | $48.00 |
| Motorized 26–39 ft (3-yr) | $63.00 | $63.00 |
| Motorized 40–64 ft (3-yr) | $78.00 | $78.00 |
| Motorized 65+ ft (3-yr) | $93.00 | $93.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 5.75%
Title Fee: $15.00
How to Register Your Boat in Ohio
To register a boat in Ohio, you must apply within Before operating on public waters of purchase through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Watercraft. Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 3 years (expires March 1 of third year).
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Watercraft portal
- In Person: At your local Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Watercraft 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
Ohio requires a boat title for watercraft 14+ feet, or boats under 14 ft with permanently affixed motor 10+ hp; outboard motors 10+ hp also require title. The title application fee is $15.00, and transfers cost $15.00.
Title required: Yes — Watercraft 14+ feet, or boats under 14 ft with permanently affixed motor 10+ HP; outboard motors 10+ HP also require title
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: 3 years (expires March 1 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
Ohio requires a boater safety course. Persons born on or after January 1, 1982, who operate a boat powered by more than 10 HP must have boater education certification.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: Persons born on or after January 1, 1982, who operate a boat powered by more than 10 HP must have boater education certification
Accepted courses: NASBLA-approved or ODNR-approved courses; proficiency exam option available by appointment
Course cost: Varies by provider; certificate is permanent
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: OH 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 Ohio Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $20.00 | 3 years (expires March 1 of third year) | Yes | 5.75% |
| Indiana | $25.00 | 1 year | Yes | 7% |
| Kentucky | $32.20 | 1 year (expires April 30) | Yes | 6% |
| Michigan | $14.00 | 3 years (expires March 31 of third year) | Yes | 6% |
| Pennsylvania | $22.00 | 2 years | Yes | 6% |
| West Virginia | $31.50 | 3 years (expires March 31) | Yes | 6% |
Ohio Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Ohio?
Do I need a title for my boat in Ohio?
Is boater education required in Ohio?
Do kayaks and canoes need registration in Ohio?
How long is boat registration valid in Ohio?
Can non-residents operate boats in Ohio?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Ohio? Visit the official Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Watercraft 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 Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Watercraft at 614-265-6480 for the most current information.