Register a Boat in Louisiana

LOUISIANA BOATING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

As a boat operator, it is your responsibility to stay up to date with the laws governing boating and safe vessel operation. Regardless of whether or not your state requires you to take a boater education course, you will need to know the laws pertaining to boat operation, communications, navigation, and emergency techniques before your first trip out on the water.

IT’S NOT A FEE, IT’S A CONTRIBUTION

When you register your boat, you will need to pay a registration fee amount that is based on the length of your vessel. Boat registration fees are important because they help fund the maintenance of marinas, boat ramps and waterway clean-up efforts.

LOUISIANA BOAT REGISTRATION INFORMATION

• If you are a new boater and aren’t sure if your vessel meets state or federal safety requirements, you can request a free vessel safety check from the U.S. Coast Guard.
• The U.S. Coast Guard can help you with advice about the proper safety equipment to have on board. This may include items such as personal floatation devices, fire extinguishers, and visual distress signals.
• Any vessel that is used on Louisiana waterways, including private lakes, must be registered.