How to Register a Boat

Once a boat has been purchased, the buyer has 30 days to register it in Arkansas to avoid fines. All boats propelled by a motor or sail must be registered within the state, and an Arkansas Certificate of Number (registration) must be kept on the boat when it is in use. If a vessel is legitimately registered in another state and is to be used on Arkansas water for 90 days or less, it is exempt from registration.

Arkansas requires additional verification of the authenticity of the identification number associated with the boat’s hull. When registering your watercraft, you will want to come prepared with proof of hull ID by either taking a photograph with the hull ID visible on the vessel or producing a physical rubbing with a pencil on paper of the legible ID.

You will then want to visit your local State Revenue Office location with the following necessary documentation:

• A bill of sale or a current registration from the previous owner. (Make sure that if the trailer to your boat is not included on the bill of sale you have a separate bill of sale to ensure proof of ownership.)
• Evidence of a boat assessment performed by an authorized Arkansas County Assessor.
• Proof that your property taxes have been paid either with the official stamp visible on your boat assessment paperwork or you can furnish a credible receipt from your local county tax assessor.
• Active liability insurance on any propelled personal watercraft of 50 horsepower or more. Proper insurance is considered at least $50,000 in coverage in Arkansas (AR Code § 27-101-207).
• Payment for all state fees and taxes.