How do I register a boat in Louisiana?
Reviewed 2026-09-29 · Source: Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF)
Ava's answer
All motorized vessels, including sailboats 12 feet or longer and non-motorized houseboats, must be registered with LDWF, and titling is required for financed boats, out-of-state titled boats, homemade boats, or those with incorrect HINs. Registrations are valid for three years and can be handled online, by mail, or in person.
- Determine title/registration need: Register all motorized vessels; title if financed, out-of-state titled, homemade, or HIN issue.
- Complete application form: Fill out the Boat Registration and Boat/Motor Title Application.
- Provide proof of ownership: Bill of sale, prior title, or MSO as applicable.
- Pay fees and taxes: Pay registration/title fees and any applicable use tax.
- Submit application: File online via LDWF system, by mail, or in person at LDWF headquarters/licensing offices.
- Renew every three years: Renew registration within 60 days of the printed expiration date.
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Steps
Documents to bring
Fees
| New/Transfer TitlePer LDWF application fee schedule. | $26.00 |
| Duplicate TitlePer LDWF application fee schedule. | $23.00 |
| Boat Registration Fee (15'11" or less)Per LDWF fee schedule. | $36.00 |
| Boat Registration Fee (16'-25'11")Per LDWF fee schedule. | $57.00 |
| Boat Registration Fee (26'-39'11")Per LDWF fee schedule. | $78.00 |
| Boat Registration Fee (40' or greater)Per LDWF fee schedule. | $99.00 |
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Source
Title or Register Your Boat · Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) · reviewed 2026-09-29
Limitations: Boats used exclusively on private ponds are exempt; boat trailers are registered separately through the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles. DMV.ai is not a government agency and does not submit registrations.
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