Registration Requirements and ProceduresThe Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) registers boats. The steps you will need to take to apply for TX boat registration will depend on if you have a new boat, or a used boat that is not currently registered or titled.
New Boat RegistrationTo register your new boat in Texas, you'll need:
Texas Boat Registration FeesRegistration fees are based on the length of your boat:
Renew OnlineTo process your renewal online, you will need to use your VISA, Discover, or MasterCard.
Use the receipt as a temporary registration certificate (valid for up to 45 days) until your decals and permanent registration card arrive in the mail.
Renew by MailYou can also mail your renewal notice or a Vessel/Boat Records Maintenance (Form PWD 143M) or a renewal request letter to:
TPWD
4200 Smith School Road
Austin, Texas 78744
Renew in PersonYou can also renew your Texas boat registration by visiting any TPWD office.
To expedite the process, either bring your renewal notification or a completed Vessel/Boat Records Maintenance (Form PWD 143M).
Replace Lost Boat RegistrationIf you need a duplicate copy of your Texas boat registration card, you'll need to drop off a completed Vessel/Boat Records Maintenance (Form PWD 143M) at any TPWD office.
Boater Safety Courses in TexasAnyone born on or after September 1, 1993 must complete a certified boater safety course.
New Boat RegistrationTo register your new boat in Texas, you'll need:
- A bill of sale.
- A manufacturer's Statement of Origin.
- A completed Vessel/Boat Application (Form PWD 143).
- Payment for your boat registration fee. See "Texas Boat Registration Fees" below.
- A completed Vessel/Boat Application (Form PWD 143) FORM IS FOUND IN "FORMS"
- A Verification of Vessel or Outboard Motor Serial Number (Form PWD 504).
- A bill of sale. (When submitting a boat bill of sale Texas residents must complete the entire form.)
- An Affidavit of Fact (Form PWD 314).
- Payment for your boat registration fee. See "Texas Boat Registration Fees" below.
Texas Boat Registration FeesRegistration fees are based on the length of your boat:
- 16 ft: $32.
- Livery boat less than 16 ft: $32.
- 16 ft to 26 ft: $53.
- 26 ft to 40 ft: $110.
- 40 ft or more: $150.
Renew OnlineTo process your renewal online, you will need to use your VISA, Discover, or MasterCard.
Use the receipt as a temporary registration certificate (valid for up to 45 days) until your decals and permanent registration card arrive in the mail.
Renew by MailYou can also mail your renewal notice or a Vessel/Boat Records Maintenance (Form PWD 143M) or a renewal request letter to:
TPWD
4200 Smith School Road
Austin, Texas 78744
Renew in PersonYou can also renew your Texas boat registration by visiting any TPWD office.
To expedite the process, either bring your renewal notification or a completed Vessel/Boat Records Maintenance (Form PWD 143M).
Replace Lost Boat RegistrationIf you need a duplicate copy of your Texas boat registration card, you'll need to drop off a completed Vessel/Boat Records Maintenance (Form PWD 143M) at any TPWD office.
Boater Safety Courses in TexasAnyone born on or after September 1, 1993 must complete a certified boater safety course.
- Online: State-approved third parties often offer convenient online classes—check with the TPWD for details.
- Classroom: Courses are offered throughout Texas.
FORMS
BOAT APPLICATION
BOAT APPLICATION
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SOURCES: Texas Boat Registration Instructions. (n.d.). Retrieved February 13, 2017, from http://www.dmv.org/tx-texas/boat-registration.php