How to Register a Boat

The state of Hawaii maintains that all motorized vessels and sailboats larger than 8 feet in length must be registered by the state system. Lifeboats, government, or US Coast Guard-owned watercraft will be an exception to this rule. Any out-of-state vessel registered sufficiently in another state can use the boat without mandated HI State registration for 60 consecutive days or less. Upon relocation to Hawaii, you must register your boat in the first 60 days to avoid fines. When purchasing a new boat while residency in the state, you have 3o days to register.

To register your vessel, visit your closest Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation location with the following documents in hand:

• A fully filled-out Hawaii Application for Vessel Registration and Certificate of Number.
• Substantial evidence of ownership of the vessel per the bill of sale, manufacturer’s certificate of origin, or an affidavit attesting to your legal ownership is required.
• Proof of residence and identification with a valid State ID or driver’s license.
• Payment for all related fees and taxes.

After registering the watercraft, you have one full year before it must be renewed. After the sale of a vessel, the purchaser is mandated to give notice within seven days via the Hawaii Vessel Notice of Sale form being sent in or handed in personally at your area DBOR office.