How to Register a Boat

To legally occupy Nevada waterways with a motor-propelled vessel, you will be bound by state law to have proper in-state registration. Although this requirement is mandatory, there are several confirmed exceptions to the regulation if the boat is:

• Commissioned solely for the purpose of a lifeboat.
• To be employed for less than 90 consecutive days and be legally registered in an alternate state or country.
• It is held in possession by a government entity, whether state or federal.

The responsibility to procure legitimate registration for a watercraft can be carried out at your closest Nevada Department of Wildlife location with the following gathered materials:

• Evidence of secured ownership by the registrant with either a Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO), an executed bill of sale, or a certificate of title signed over by the previous owner.
  • Keep in mind that if there is no available MCO or viewable hull identification number, an inspection must be conducted at a Nevada Department of Wildlife facility to complete registration.
• Prior title and/or registration (if the vessel is purchased out-of-state).
• Evidence to support proof of sales tax payment paid to your local Nevada Department of Taxation office (not necessary for a private party sale.)
• A valid social security number.
• Active photo identification.
• Compensation for all associated taxes and fees.