How to Register a Boat

To legally use a vessel propelled by a motor or sail upon a waterway located in Nebraska, it must be actively registered with the state, displaying all required decals in prominent view. Those watercraft deemed exempt from this provision include:

• State or Federally owned boats.
• Out-of-state boats with current registration from another state or country will be utilized for no more than 60 consecutive days in Nebraska.
• Authorized race boats for accredited competitions.

Nebraska mandates that any vessel assembled after November 1, 1972, must have a valid hull identification number and an official certificate of title. In the case that your boat does not have a designated hull identification number, you will be compelled to obtain one at your local Nebraska DMV office along with the following:

• Certification of ownership.
• A completed Nebraska Assigned ID Number Application (Form Rev 717).
• Authorization of completed Sheriff’s Inspection of the vessel.
• Monies for $20 ID Assignment fee.

To properly register a boat, it must first have a legitimate title. In the case that your boat has not yet been granted a title, you will need to visit your local county treasurer’s office with the following:

• A finalized Nebraska Application for Certificate of Title (Form Rev-707).
• Proof of assigned hull identification number.
• If the boat was purchased with a loan, any contracts associated with the lien.
• Payment for titling fees.

The process involved in registering a watercraft will require you to attend your nearest Nebraska DMV location or county treasurer’s office with the following paperwork in hand:

• The new or reassigned title.
• Evidence of ownership via a manufacturer’s certificate of origin and/or bill of sale.
• If the boat was purchased new, a Nebraska Sales and Use Statement for Motorboat Sales (Form 6MB).
• All applicable taxes and fees are required to complete titling and registration.

Registration of a vessel expires three years after the end of the calendar year on December 31.