Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Pennsylvania, all motorboats and all boats using pa waterways (including unpowered). There are 1 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorboats and all boats using PA waterways (including unpowered)
Exempt from registration:
- Vessels from another state temporarily on PA waters with valid registration
Registration Fees & Costs
Pennsylvania boat registration fees range from $22.00 to $52.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 6% sales tax, and title fees are $30.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Unpowered boat (2-yr) | $22.00 | $22.00 |
| Motorboat < 16 ft (2-yr) | $26.00 | $26.00 |
| Motorboat 16–19 ft (2-yr) | $39.00 | $39.00 |
| Motorboat 20+ ft (2-yr) | $52.00 | $52.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 6%
Title Fee: $30.00
How to Register Your Boat in Pennsylvania
To register a boat in Pennsylvania, you must apply within Before launching (60-day temp registration available) of purchase through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC). Online registration is not currently available. Registration is valid for 2 years.
Registration can be completed:
- In Person: At your local Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) 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
Pennsylvania requires a boat title for all motorboats in pennsylvania. The title application fee is $30.00, and transfers cost $30.00.
Title required: Yes — All motorboats in Pennsylvania
Title application fee: $30.00
Title transfer fee: $30.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale
- Completed REV-336 application
- Proof of sales tax payment
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Registration Renewal
Validity period: 2 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
Pennsylvania requires a boater safety course. All PWC operators and persons born on or after January 1, 1982, operating boats with motors over 25 HP. The minimum age to operate a vessel is 12.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: All PWC operators and persons born on or after January 1, 1982, operating boats with motors over 25 HP
Accepted courses: PFBC-approved courses (online and in-person)
Course cost: $10 PFBC certificate fee + course provider fee
Minimum age to operate: 12 years old
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: PA 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 Pennsylvania Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $22.00 | 2 years | Yes | 6% |
| Delaware | $20.00 | 1 year or 3 years | No | 0% |
| Maryland | $70.00 | 2 years | Yes | 5% |
| New Jersey | $12.00 | 1 year | Yes | 6.625% |
| New York | $22.50 | 3 years | Yes | 4% |
| Ohio | $20.00 | 3 years (expires March 1 of third year) | Yes | 5.75% |
| West Virginia | $31.50 | 3 years (expires March 31) | Yes | 6% |
Pennsylvania Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Pennsylvania?
Do I need a title for my boat in Pennsylvania?
Is boater education required in Pennsylvania?
Can I register my boat online in Pennsylvania?
Do unpowered boats need registration in Pennsylvania?
Can non-residents operate boats in Pennsylvania?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Pennsylvania? Visit the official Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) website or use our tools to estimate costs.
Related Resources
- Delaware Boat Registration
- Maryland Boat Registration
- New Jersey Boat Registration
- New York Boat Registration
- Ohio Boat Registration
- West Virginia 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 Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) at 717-705-7940 for the most current information.