Do You Have To Register a Boat Without a Motor?

Some Non-Motorized Boats Are Exempt From Registration

Most states require registration for all motorized boats, regardless of the type of boat. This includes boats with any type of motor, such as inboard, outboard, or jet propulsion.

However, non-motorized boats such as kayaks, canoes, and rowboats are generally exempt from registration, but this can vary depending on the state you live in and other factors.

Below is a table showing the different types of non-motorized boats that can be exempt from boat registration:

Boat Type	Exempted from registration?	When you need to register it
Canoes	Yes	If used for commercial purposes and exceeded a certain length or weight, also depending on location
Kayaks	Yes	If used for commercial purposes and exceeded a certain length or weight, depending on location too
Rowboats	Yes	If used for commercial purposes and exceeded a certain length or weight, also depends on location
Paddleboards	Yes	If used for commercial purposes and exceeded a certain length or weight, depends on location
Sailboats	Yes	If they come with auxiliary motors; or if it exceed a certain length
Inflatable rafts	Yes	If used for commercial purposes and exceeded a certain length or weight
Jon boats	Yes	If the length is more than 14 feet and the boat is used for commercial purposes
Dinghies	Yes	If the boat is used for commercial purposes
Pedal boats	Yes	If the boat is used for commercial purposes
Gondolas	Yes	If the boat is used for commercial purposes and is not operated solely by human power

Boats that are exempted from registration

In general, boats without a motor do not need to be registered. This means that if you own a non-motorized boat, such as a kayak, canoe, rowboat, paddleboat, or sailboat (based on length in some states), you do not need to register your boat.

This is because non-motorized boats are typically smaller and do not pose a significant threat, so they are exempted from registration in many states. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, as some states require non-motorized boats to be registered based on length.

Additionally, smaller boats like a ship's lifeboat or a boat that is propelled by oars or paddles do not have to be registered with the state. However, it's always a good idea to do some research or ask a state representative about what sorts of watercraft do not have to be registered in your state.

Some States Require Non-Motorized Boats To Be Registered

Some states may require registration for non-motorized boats if they are over a certain length or used in certain bodies of water, such as the following:

State	Non-motorized boat registration requirements	Estimated registration fee
California	All boats over 8 feet in length used on public waterways must be registered	$10
Florida	Non-motorized boats are exempt from registration unless used in certain waterways (e.g. state parks)	$5 to $27.50
Michigan	Non-motorized boats over 16 feet in length must be registered	$10
New York	Non-motorized boats are exempt from registration, unless used in certain waterways (e.g. state parks, certain lakes)	$10 to $100
Texas	Non-motorized boats are exempt from registration, unless used in certain waterways (e.g. state parks, certain lakes), Non-motorized boats are exempt except those over 14 feet in length	$32 (if applicable)

Non-motorized boat registration in California

In the state of California, all boats, regardless of whether they are motorized or not, must be registered with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if they are over 8 feet in length and are used on public waterways.

This includes sailboats, kayaks, canoes, and other non-motorized boats. The registration process involves filling out an application form, providing proof of ownership, and paying a fee.

The registration certificate must be carried onboard the boat at all times and be available for inspection by law enforcement officials. The purpose of boat registration is to ensure that boats are properly identified, that their owners are accountable for their actions on the water, and to help fund conservation and safety programs.

Non-motorized boat registration in Florida

In Florida, non-motorized boats such as canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are generally exempt from registration requirements. However, if these boats are used on state park waters or waters owned by the state, they must be registered with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

This registration requirement is in place to help protect these natural resources and ensure that they are used safely and responsibly. The registration process is relatively straightforward and can be completed online through the FWC's website.

Registration fees are one of the key costs to consider when owning a boat in Florida. The registration fee for a motorized sailboat in Florida ranges from $30 - $200. But if you own a non-motorized boat, the registration fees only range from $5 to $27.50 based on the length of the vessel.

To know more about the average cost of owning a boat in Florida, we have provided four examples in this article.

Motorless boat registration in Texas

In Texas, non-motorized boats such as canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are generally exempt from registration. However, if these types of boats are used on public saltwater or freshwater bodies of water, they need to be registered with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

The registration requirement applies to non-motorized boats that are used for fishing or other recreational purposes on public waters. The purpose of the registration is to help fund conservation efforts and promote safe boating practices.

To register a non-motorized boat in Texas, owners must complete a registration form and pay a fee. The registration is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Failure to register a non-motorized boat that is required to be registered can result in fines and other penalties.

Note that there are some exceptions to the registration requirement, such as non-motorized boats that are used exclusively on private waters or those owned by government agencies. Additionally, non-motorized boats that are used for commercial purposes, such as guided tours, may be subject to different registration requirements.

Registering non-motorized boats in Michigan

In Michigan, non-motorized boats over 16 feet in length are required to be registered with the state. This includes canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and sailboats.

The registration process involves filling out a form and paying a fee. It is valid for three years and must be renewed before it expires. The purpose of the registration is to help ensure safety on the waterways and to provide a means of identifying the owner of a boat in case of theft or other issues.

Motorless boat registration in New York

In New York, non-motorized boats are exempt from registration, except if they are used on state-owned lands or facilities. State-owned lands and facilities can include things like state parks, boat launches, and other areas where the state has jurisdiction over the waterway.

If you plan to use your non-motorized boat in one of these areas, you will need to register it with the New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Department.

The reason for this requirement is to help ensure safety on the waterways and to help protect the environment. Also, even if your non-motorized boat is exempt from registration requirements, you are still required to follow all other boating laws and regulations, such as carrying appropriate safety equipment and obeying speed limits and other rules of the waterway.

Note that adding a trolling motor to a non-motorized boat changes its status. A boat with a trolling motor is considered a motorized boat in all US states and must be registered accordingly. This means that even if your kayak or canoe doesn't require registration, adding a trolling motor will change that.

To know if you need to get a HIN number for your non-motorized boat, you might want to read this article.