Utah Boat Registration:
Requirements, Fees & How to Apply (2026)
Complete guide to Utah boat registration. Learn about fees ($51-$71), required documents, online registration, title transfer, and renewal process.
Key Takeaway: Utah requires registration for boats with a motor of any size or type operated on utah waters must be registered with the utah dmv. Registration fees range from $51 to $71 and are valid for 1 year (annual renewal). A boat title is required. Boater education is mandatory. Online registration is available.
Which Boats Need Registration in Utah?
Must Register
All boats with a motor of any size or type operated on Utah waters must be registered with the Utah DMV.
Exemptions
- Non-motorized canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards (but must enroll in AIS program)
- Vessels used exclusively on private waters
- Government-owned vessels
Utah Boat Registration Fees & Costs
Registration Process in Utah
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 Utah Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) office.
Submit Application & Pay Fees
Complete the registration form and pay the applicable fees. Deadline: Before operating on Utah 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 Utah
All motorized watercraft must be titled with the Utah DMV.
Issued by: Utah Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
Submit the signed title from the seller, a completed application, proof of sales tax payment, and the $6 title fee to the Utah DMV. Transfers are treated as new registrations.
$6.00
$6.00
Available
Registration Renewal in Utah
Boater Safety Education in Utah
All operators born after December 31, 1989, must complete a boater education course approved by Utah Division of Wildlife Resources before operating a motorized vessel.
- Persons born on or before December 31, 1989
- U.S. Coast Guard licensed operators
- Operators with a valid boater education card from a NASBLA-recognized state
Registration Number Display Rules
All registered vessels in Utah must display their registration number and validation stickers according to the following requirements:
Utah vs Neighboring States
Neighboring state data will be available once more states are added.
Frequently Asked Questions About Utah Boat Registration
How much does it cost to register a boat in Utah?
Utah annual registration includes a base fee ($20 for under 16 ft, $40 for 16+ ft), a $10 AIS fee, $0.50 search and rescue fee, and a $20 AIS vessel enrollment (resident). Total is approximately $50.50 to $70.50, plus an annual Uniform Fee (property tax).
What is the Uniform Fee for boats in Utah?
The Uniform Fee is an annual property tax on vessels under 31 feet. It is age-based: $150 for 2024–2026 models, $110 for 2021–2023, $80 for 2018–2020, $50 for 2015–2017, and $10 for 2014 and older. Vessels 31+ ft pay 1.5% of fair market value.
Can I register my boat online in Utah?
Yes, the Utah DMV offers online boat registration and renewal. An electronic payment fee of $3 applies for online transactions.
What is the AIS vessel enrollment?
All watercraft (including non-motorized) launching in Utah must enroll in the AIS vessel program: $20 for residents, $25 for non-residents. You must also complete an annual mussel-aware boater course to receive the current-year decal.
Do I need a title for my boat in Utah?
Yes, all motorized watercraft must be titled with the Utah DMV. The title fee is $6. Transfers are treated as new registrations.
Is boater education required in Utah?
Yes, all operators born after December 31, 1989, must complete a boater education course approved by Utah DWR before operating a motorized vessel.
Do non-residents need to register in Utah?
Non-residents with valid home state registration may operate in Utah for up to 60 days. However, all vessels must enroll in the AIS program ($25 for non-residents) and complete the mussel-aware boater course.
Does Utah charge sales tax on boats?
Yes, Utah charges approximately 6.85% combined state and local sales tax on boat purchases. The exact rate varies by county.
Ready to Register Your Boat in Utah?
Visit the official Utah Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) / Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) website to start your boat registration or renewal.
Register at Utah Division of Motor Vehicles