Quick answer
In Texas, registration is required for: All motorized vessels and all sailboats over 14 feet. Registration is handled by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), is valid for 2 years, and costs $32.00 to $150.00 before any purchase tax or local add-ons.
Official source: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) · Last checked in site data: June 23, 2026 · All official state agencies
Texas Registration Guides
Use these Texas-specific guides for renewal, title, tax, non-resident, vessel-type, and paperwork questions that need more detail than the state overview.
- Texas Boat Title Transfer: PWD 143 Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
- Texas PWD 143 Form: Boat Title and Registration Application Guide (2026)
- Texas Boat Sales Tax: 6.25% Rate, PWD 143 & How to Calculate (2026)
- Texas Non-Resident Boating: 90-Day Rule, Permits & What to Know (2026)
- Texas Bonded Title: How to Register a Boat Without a Title (2026)
- Texas Kayak Registration: Trolling Motor Rules, Exemptions & Requirements (2026)
- Texas Jet Ski & PWC Laws: Age Limits, Sunset Rule & Safety Requirements (2026)
Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Texas, registration is required for: All motorized vessels and all sailboats over 14 feet. There are 3 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorized vessels and all sailboats over 14 feet
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized vessels 14 feet or less
- Vessels used exclusively on private waters
- Vessels documented by the US Coast Guard (still require registration number)
Registration Fees & Costs
Texas boat registration fees range from $32.00 to $150.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 6.25% sales tax, and title fees are $27.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 16 ft | $32.00 | $32.00 |
| 16 ft to less than 26 ft | $53.00 | $53.00 |
| 26 ft to less than 40 ft | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| 40 ft and over | $150.00 | $150.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 6.25%
Title Fee: $27.00
Lien Recording Fee: $5.00
How to Register Your Boat in Texas
To register a boat in Texas, you must apply within 30 days of purchase through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 2 years.
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) portal
- In Person: At your local Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) 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
Texas Boat Title & Title Transfer
Texas requires a boat title for all motorized vessels and sailboats over 14 feet. The title application fee is $27.00, and transfers cost $28.00.
Title required: Yes — All motorized vessels and sailboats over 14 feet
Title application fee: $27.00
Title transfer fee: $28.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title signed by seller (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale or Invoice
- Application for Texas Certificate of Title (PWD 143)
- Valid photo ID
For state-specific paperwork, see Texas Boat Title Transfer: PWD 143 Step-by-Step Guide (2026). For the national process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Buying or Selling a Boat in Texas
If you are selling a boat in Texas, give the buyer a signed bill of sale, current registration records, and any title or ownership documents required by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). 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 TX |
|---|---|
| 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 motorized vessels and sailboats over 14 feet; title transfer fee is $28.00. |
| Tax | 6.25% 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.
Texas Boat Registration Renewal
Validity period: 2 years
Texas boat registration renewal follows the same agency channel as initial registration. Online renewal or online registration services are listed as available in current TX 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
Texas requires a boater safety course. Born on or after September 1, 1993, operating vessels with 15+ HP or PWCs. The minimum age to operate a vessel is 13.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: Born on or after September 1, 1993, operating vessels with 15+ HP or PWCs
Accepted courses: TPWD-approved course providers
Course cost: $13 for online course
Minimum age to operate: 13 years old
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: TX 1234 AB
Minimum font height: 3 inches minimum
Font style: Bold block letters, contrasting color
Placement: Both sides of the forward half of the vessel
Sticker placement: Within 6 inches after the registration number
For federal rules on registration number display, see our Number Display Rules Guide.
How Texas Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $32.00 | 2 years | Yes | 6.25% |
| Arkansas | $7.50 | 3 years | Yes | 6.5% |
| Louisiana | $36.00 | 3 years | Yes | 4.45% |
| New Mexico | $60.00 | 3 years | Yes | 5% |
| Oklahoma | $3.25 | 1 year or 3 years (July 1 – June 30) | Yes | 4.5% |
Texas Boat Registration FAQ
How much does boat registration cost in Texas?
Can I register my boat online in Texas?
Is a boat title required in Texas?
How long is Texas boat registration valid?
Do I need a boating safety course in Texas?
What is the sales tax on boats in Texas?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Texas? Visit the official Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) 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 Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) at 512-389-4800 for the most current information.