Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Tennessee, all boats propelled by a motor or sail on public waters of tennessee. There are 2 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All boats propelled by a motor or sail on public waters of Tennessee
Exempt from registration:
- Human-powered vessels (canoes, kayaks, rowboats)
- Boats registered in another state temporarily on Tennessee waters (if TN is not state of principal use)
Registration Fees & Costs
Tennessee boat registration fees range from $15.86 to $173.24 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 7% sales tax, and title fees are $0.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| 16 ft and under (1-yr) | $15.86 | $15.86 |
| 16 ft and under (3-yr) | $42.70 | $42.70 |
| Over 16 ft to < 26 ft (1-yr) | $30.50 | $30.50 |
| Over 16 ft to < 26 ft (3-yr) | $86.62 | $86.62 |
| 26 ft to < 40 ft (1-yr) | $46.36 | $46.36 |
| 26 ft to < 40 ft (3-yr) | $130.54 | $130.54 |
| 40 ft and over (1-yr) | $62.22 | $62.22 |
| 40 ft and over (3-yr) | $173.24 | $173.24 |
Sales Tax Rate: 7%
Title Fee: $0.00
How to Register Your Boat in Tennessee
To register a boat in Tennessee, you must apply within Before operating on public waters of purchase through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 1, 2, or 3 years.
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) portal
- In Person: At your local Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) 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
Tennessee does not require a separate boat title — registration serves as proof of ownership. The title application fee is $0.00, and transfers cost $0.00.
Title required: No — Tennessee does not title boats
Title application fee: $0.00
Title transfer fee: $0.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Previous state registration (for out-of-state transfers)
- Bill of Sale
- Proof of sales tax paid
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Registration Renewal
Validity period: 1, 2, or 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
Tennessee requires a boater safety course. Tennessee residents born after January 1, 1989, must pass a Boating Safety Exam and carry a TWRA-issued certificate.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: Tennessee residents born after January 1, 1989, must pass a Boating Safety Exam and carry a TWRA-issued certificate
Accepted courses: TWRA approved courses, online courses (effective April 2025)
Course cost: Free (TWRA) or paid online providers
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: TN 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 Tennessee Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $15.86 | 1, 2, or 3 years | No | 7% |
| Alabama | $25.00 | 1 year (October 1 – September 30) | Yes | 4% |
| Arkansas | $7.50 | 3 years | Yes | 6.5% |
| Georgia | $45.00 | 3 years | Yes | 4% |
| Kentucky | $32.20 | 1 year (expires April 30) | Yes | 6% |
| Mississippi | $10.99 | 3 years | No | 7% |
| Missouri | $25.00 | 3 years | Yes | 4.225% |
| North Carolina | $34.00 | 1 year or 3 years | Yes | 4.75% |
| Virginia | $32.00 | 3 years | Yes | 2% |
Tennessee Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Tennessee?
Does Tennessee require boat titles?
Is boater education required in Tennessee?
Can I register my boat online in Tennessee?
Do non-residents need to register boats in Tennessee?
Why did Tennessee boat registration fees increase?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Tennessee? Visit the official Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) website or use our tools to estimate costs.
Related Resources
- Alabama Boat Registration
- Arkansas Boat Registration
- Georgia Boat Registration
- Kentucky Boat Registration
- Mississippi Boat Registration
- Missouri Boat Registration
- North Carolina Boat Registration
- 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 Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) at 615-781-6500 for the most current information.