With so many opportunities to enjoy your boat on New Jersey’s waters, be sure you follow the rules for registering your vessel so you can enjoy all of them. Learn how.
In New Jersey, most vessels must be registered with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission before they can be used on the state’s waterways. However, there are several exceptions to this New Jersey boat registration rule. Specifically, the following boats don’t need to be registered:
When registering a boat in New Jersey, the process is slightly different depending on the length of your boat, which we’ll discuss below.
Regardless of the length of your boat, all New Jersey boat registrations are good for one year. When it comes time to renew your registration, you’ll have the option to do it online, by mail or in person at a Motor Vehicle Commission branch.
New Jersey boat trailer registration is also governed by the Motor Vehicle Commission. Boat trailers are considered “other non-commercial motor vehicles” for registration purposes. To register a trailer, there are distinct steps you’ll need to follow depending on:
All of the documentation you’ll need depending on your specific situation is listed on the Motor Vehicle Commission’s website.
The cost to register boat in New Jersey depends on the length of your boat. When registering a boat in New Jersey, the current fees you’ll pay for an original boat registration are as follows:
If you lose your registration, a duplicate boat registration costs $5. You’ll have to get your duplicate at a Motor Vehicle Commission branch as well.
NJ FISHING LAWS & REGULATIONS
New Jersey has its own set of boating rules to protect the waterways and keep everyone who uses them safe.
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Learn how to take care of your crew and your boat, while also taking care of our valuable water resources.
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Additional resources and information can be found directly on the New Jersey State Police Marine Services Bureau.
OPERATOR LICENSE INFORMATION REGISTER YOUR BOAT IN NEW JERSEY