Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Vermont, all motorized vessels including personal watercraft on vermont waters. There are 2 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorized vessels including personal watercraft on Vermont waters
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and non-motorized sailboats
- Vessels from reciprocal states for up to 90 consecutive days
Registration Fees & Costs
Vermont boat registration fees range from $33.00 to $305.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 6% sales tax, and title fees are $0.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Class A: < 16 ft (1-yr) | $31.00 | $33.00 |
| Class A: < 16 ft (2-yr) | $57.00 | $59.00 |
| Class I: 16–25 ft (1-yr) | $49.00 | $51.00 |
| Class I: 16–25 ft (2-yr) | $93.00 | $95.00 |
| Class II: 26–39 ft (1-yr) | $80.00 | $82.00 |
| Class II: 26–39 ft (2-yr) | $155.00 | $157.00 |
| Class III: 40+ ft (1-yr) | $153.00 | $155.00 |
| Class III: 40+ ft (2-yr) | $303.00 | $305.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 6%
Title Fee: $0.00
How to Register Your Boat in Vermont
To register a boat in Vermont, you must apply within Before operating on public waters of purchase through the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 1 year or 2 years.
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) portal
- In Person: At your local Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) 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
Vermont requires a boat title for vessels 16+ feet and 15 years old or newer (model year 2011+ for 2026). The title application fee is $0.00, and transfers cost $6.00.
Title required: Yes — Vessels 16+ feet and 15 years old or newer (model year 2011+ for 2026)
Title application fee: $0.00
Title transfer fee: $6.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale
- Proof of sales tax payment (6%)
- Valid photo ID
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Registration Renewal
Validity period: 1 year or 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
Vermont requires a boater safety course. Anyone born after January 1, 1974, must complete an approved boater safety course to operate a motorized vessel or PWC.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: Anyone born after January 1, 1974, must complete an approved boater safety course to operate a motorized vessel or PWC
Accepted courses: Vermont-approved courses, NASBLA-approved online providers
Course cost: Varies by provider
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: VT 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 Vermont Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vermont | $33.00 | 1 year or 2 years | Yes | 6% |
| Massachusetts | $44.00 | 2 years | Yes | 6.25% |
| New Hampshire | $47.50 | 1 year (expires December 31) | No | 0% |
| New York | $22.50 | 3 years | Yes | 4% |
Vermont Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Vermont?
Do I need a title for my boat in Vermont?
Is boater education required in Vermont?
What sales tax applies to boats in Vermont?
Can non-residents operate boats in Vermont?
When does boat registration expire in Vermont?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Vermont? Visit the official Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) 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 Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at 802-828-2000 for the most current information.