Hawaii Boat Registration:
Requirements, Fees & How to Apply (2026)
Complete guide to Hawaii boat registration. Learn about fees ($20-$35), required documents, online registration, title transfer, and renewal process.
Key Takeaway: Hawaii requires registration for undocumented vessels principally used in hawaii must be registered with dobor. Registration fees range from $20 to $35 and are valid for 1 year (annual renewal). A boat title is required. Online registration is available.
Which Boats Need Registration in Hawaii?
Must Register
All undocumented vessels principally used in Hawaii must be registered with DOBOR.
Exemptions
- USCG documented vessels
- Non-motorized canoes and kayaks under certain conditions
- Government-owned vessels
- Vessels of foreign countries temporarily in Hawaii
Hawaii Boat Registration Fees & Costs
Registration Process in Hawaii
Gather Required Documents
Prepare all necessary documentation including proof of ownership, identification, and HIN verification.
Choose Registration Method
Register online, by mail, or in person at your local Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR), Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) office.
Submit Application & Pay Fees
Complete the registration form and pay the applicable fees. Deadline: Before operating on Hawaii waters after purchase.
Receive Registration Number
Once approved, you will receive your registration certificate, number, and validation stickers.
Display Registration Number
Affix the registration number and stickers to your vessel according to state display requirements.
Required Documents Checklist
Boat Title & Title Transfer in Hawaii
All undocumented vessels principally used in Hawaii must be titled with DOBOR. Titles are valid for the life of the vessel. Late title fee of $40 applies after the September 2022 deadline.
Issued by: Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR)
Submit the signed title from the seller, a completed application, a bill of sale, and the $10 transfer fee to DOBOR.
$20.00
$10.00
Available
Registration Renewal in Hawaii
Boater Safety Education in Hawaii
Registration Number Display Rules
All registered vessels in Hawaii must display their registration number and validation stickers according to the following requirements:
Hawaii vs Neighboring States
Neighboring state data will be available once more states are added.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaii Boat Registration
How much does it cost to register a boat in Hawaii?
Hawaii annual renewal fees are: under 20 ft $20 and 20+ ft $35. Initial registration is slightly higher: $25 and $40 respectively. A $5 convenience fee applies for online renewals.
How long is boat registration valid in Hawaii?
Hawaii boat registrations require annual renewal.
Can I register my boat online in Hawaii?
Yes, registration renewals can be processed online through the eHawaii.gov portal. A $5 convenience fee applies. You can also visit the DOBOR office on Oahu or a Neighbor Island District Office.
Do I need a title for my boat in Hawaii?
Yes, all undocumented vessels principally used in Hawaii must be titled. Titles are $20 and are valid for life. Late title fees ($40) may apply.
Does Hawaii charge sales tax on boats?
Hawaii charges a 4% General Excise Tax (GET) on boat purchases, which functions similarly to a sales tax.
Is boater education required in Hawaii?
No, Hawaii does not mandate boater education. However, DOBOR recommends all operators complete a safety course.
Do non-residents need to register in Hawaii?
Non-residents with valid non-expired registration may operate in Hawaii for up to 90 days. After 90 days, Hawaii registration and titling are required.
How do I transfer a boat title in Hawaii?
Submit the signed title, a bill of sale, and the $10 transfer fee to DOBOR. The certificate of title must also be modified ($10 fee).
Ready to Register Your Boat in Hawaii?
Visit the official Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR), Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) website to start your boat registration or renewal.
Register at Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation