Motor vehicle office in Lakeland, Florida

How do I register a boat in Florida?

Reviewed 2026-09-29 · Source: Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)

Photo: Motor vehicle office in Lakeland, Florida · DanTD · CC BY-SA 4.0. Shown for illustration; not an office recommendation.

Ava's answer

All motorized vessels on Florida waters must be titled and registered through the county tax collector or license plate agent office within 30 days of purchase. FLHSMV administers the program under Chapter 328, Florida Statutes.

Starting feeNot verified

WhereOnline or in person

Steps6 steps

Gather proof of ownership: Obtain manufacturer's statement of origin, bill of sale, or prior title/registration.
Complete application: File title/registration application at a county tax collector or license plate agent office.
Provide ID and vessel description: Include HIN, length, hull material, propulsion and fuel type.
Pay fees and taxes: Pay applicable titling and registration fees and sales tax.
Choose registration term: Select one- or two-year registration period.
Display decal and numbers: Affix issued decal and registration numbers to the vessel.

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Source

Vessel Titling and Registrations · Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) · reviewed 2026-09-29

Limitations: Applications must be filed in person at a county tax collector/license plate agent, not directly with FLHSMV; certain small non-motorized and exempt vessels are excluded. Fees were not confirmed on the official page; check the source. DMV.ai is not a government agency and does not submit registrations.

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