Register a Boat in Rhode Island

RHODE ISLAND BOATING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

Every state has its own set of boating laws, so it is always a good idea to complete a boating education class to help build your water safety and boating skills. Rhode Island boating laws require a boater safety education certificate for boaters under a certain age, so be sure to check the state age requirement.

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 Rhode Island; however, these fees are used by the state to help sustain our natural resources and promote responsible boating.

RHODE ISLAND BOAT REGISTRATION INFORMATION

• All boats of all motor types and all sail boats used in public waters must be registered.
• Any vessel that is used or moored on Rhode Island waterways for more than 90 days per year must be registered in the state.
• The documents required to register your vessel includes notarized bill of sale, title signed and notarized from bonafide seller, boat registration application, outboard motor application among other requirements.