Register a Boat in District of Columbia

You will need to get your valid Washington D.C. boat registration if you plan to take your new cuddy cabin for a cruise along the Potomac River or practice catch and release fishing from a pontoon on the Anacostia River. When you buy a boat in Washington DC or any other state, you also have to find out if boating licenses are required.

Register Your Boat
Boat Registration

WASHINGTON D.C. BOATING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

The experience of operating a boat is fun, but also involves a great deal of responsibility. All boaters need to know the state boating laws and understand the safe boating basics. Some states also have laws that require boaters to obtain a boating license. Boating licenses are proof that a boat operator has passed an approved safe boating course.

IT’S NOT A FEE, IT’S A CONTRIBUTION

Your boat registration serves as documentation to prove that you are the rightful owner of a vessel. There are registration fees that you will need to pay when you register your boat in Washington D.C.; however, these fees are used by the state to help sustain our natural resources and promote responsible boating.

WASHINGTON D.C. BOAT REGISTRATION INFORMATION

  • Every state has different procedures and laws regarding the types of boats that must be registered, so it is important to check the specific requirements in your area. Be prepared to provide items such as proof of ownership, title fees, tax and registration fees.
  • All watercraft are required to be registered in Washington D.C. including canoes, kayaks, powerboats, U.S Coast Guard documented vessels, rental, and clubs.
  • The documents required to register your vessel includes application for boat certificate of title/registration, original bill of sale, manufacturer statement of origin among other documents.