Quick answer
In Oregon, registration is required for: All motorboats (regardless of length) and sailboats 12 feet and longer operated on Oregon waters. Registration is handled by the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB), is valid for 2 years (biennial, expires December 31), and costs $115.10 to $138.90 before any purchase tax or local add-ons.
Official source: Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) · Last checked in site data: June 23, 2026 · All official state agencies
Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Oregon, registration is required for: All motorboats (regardless of length) and sailboats 12 feet and longer operated on Oregon waters. There are 2 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorboats (regardless of length) and sailboats 12 feet and longer operated on Oregon waters
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized boats under 12 feet (kayaks, canoes) — waterway access permit required starting 2026
- Non-residents with valid home-state registration (AIS prevention permit required: $30/year)
Registration Fees & Costs
Oregon boat registration fees range from $115.10 to $138.90 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 0% sales tax, and title fees are $75.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Per-foot biennial rate (example: 18 ft boat) | $107.10 | $115.10 |
| Per-foot biennial rate (example: 22 ft boat) | $130.90 | $138.90 |
Sales Tax Rate: 0%
Title Fee: $75.00
How to Register Your Boat in Oregon
To register a boat in Oregon, you must apply within Before operating on public waters; late title transfer penalty ($25) if over 30 days of purchase through the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB). Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 2 years (biennial, expires December 31).
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) portal
- In Person: At your local Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) 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
Oregon Boat Title & Title Transfer
Oregon requires a boat title for all motorboats (regardless of length) and sailboats 12 feet and longer. The title application fee is $75.00, and transfers cost $75.00.
Title required: Yes — All motorboats (regardless of length) and sailboats 12 feet and longer
Title application fee: $75.00
Title transfer fee: $75.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale
- Valid photo ID
- Late transfer penalty ($25) if submitted 30+ days after purchase
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Buying or Selling a Boat in Oregon
If you are selling a boat in Oregon, give the buyer a signed bill of sale, current registration records, and any title or ownership documents required by the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB). 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 OR |
|---|---|
| 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 motorboats (regardless of length) and sailboats 12 feet and longer; title transfer fee is $75.00. |
| Tax | 0% 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.
Oregon Boat Registration Renewal
Validity period: 2 years (biennial, expires December 31)
Oregon boat registration renewal follows the same agency channel as initial registration. Online renewal or online registration services are listed as available in current OR 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
Oregon requires a boater safety course. All operators of motorboats with 10+ HP on Oregon waters must complete a state-approved boating safety course and carry a Boater Education Card; youth 12-15 must also complete the course. The minimum age to operate a vessel is 12.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: All operators of motorboats with 10+ HP on Oregon waters must complete a state-approved boating safety course and carry a Boater Education Card; youth 12-15 must also complete the course
Accepted courses: OSMB-approved courses, NASBLA-approved/USCG-recognized providers
Course cost: Varies by provider
Minimum age to operate: 12 years old
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: OR 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 Oregon Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oregon | $115.10 | 2 years (biennial, expires December 31) | Yes | 0% |
| California | $36.00 | 2 years | No | 7.25% |
| Idaho | $41.50 | 1 year (expires December 31) | Yes | 6% |
| Nevada | $20.00 | 1 year (expires December 31) | Yes | 6.85% |
| Washington | $43.25 | 1 year (annual renewal) | Yes | 6.5% |
Oregon Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Oregon?
Do I need a title for my boat in Oregon?
Is boater education required in Oregon?
Do non-residents need an AIS permit in Oregon?
How are Oregon registration fees calculated?
Does Oregon have sales tax on boats?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Oregon? Visit the official Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) 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 Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) at 503-378-8587 for the most current information.