Quick answer
In Vermont, registration is required for: All motorized vessels including personal watercraft on Vermont waters. Registration is handled by the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), is valid for 1 year or 2 years, and costs $33.00 to $305.00 before any purchase tax or local add-ons.
Official source: Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) · Last checked in site data: June 23, 2026 · All official state agencies
Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Vermont, registration is required for: 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
Vermont Boat 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.
Buying or Selling a Boat in Vermont
If you are selling a boat in Vermont, give the buyer a signed bill of sale, current registration records, and any title or ownership documents required by the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). 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 VT |
|---|---|
| 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 vessels 16+ feet and 15 years old or newer (model year 2011+ for 2026); title transfer fee is $6.00. |
| Tax | 6% 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.
Vermont Boat Registration Renewal
Validity period: 1 year or 2 years
Vermont boat registration renewal follows the same agency channel as initial registration. Online renewal or online registration services are listed as available in current VT 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
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.