Maryland Boat Registration: Requirements, Fees & How to Apply (2026)
Complete guide to Maryland boat registration. Learn about fees ($12-$70), required documents, online registration, title transfer, and renewal process.
Key Takeaway: Maryland requires registration for motorized vessels and sailboats used on maryland waters must be registered with mddnr. Registration fees range from $12 to $70 and are valid for 2 years. A boat title is required. Boater education is mandatory. Online registration is available.
Official source links for Maryland were checked on 2026-05-01.
Which Boats Need Registration in Maryland?
Must Register
All motorized vessels and sailboats used on Maryland waters must be registered with MDDNR.
Exemptions
- Non-motorized vessels (canoes, kayaks, rowboats, paddleboards) — optional $12 voluntary registration available
- Vessels used exclusively on private waters
- Vessels owned by the U.S. Government
Maryland Boat Registration Fees & Costs
Use the fee calculator with Maryland preselected to combine the listed registration class, title fee, and sales tax planning inputs. Listed totals on this page range from $12 to $70 before local or file-specific charges.
Use the listed Maryland fee range, title rule, and agency source review date to organize the documents you still need to confirm before paying or operating.
Official source links for Maryland were checked on 2026-05-01.
Registration Process in Maryland
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 Maryland Department of Natural Resources (MDDNR) office.
Submit Application & Pay Fees
Complete the registration form and pay the applicable fees. Deadline: Before operation on Maryland 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
Official source links for Maryland were checked on 2026-05-01.
Boat Title & Title Transfer in Maryland
All vessels required to be registered must also have a certificate of title.
Issued by: Maryland Department of Natural Resources
Submit the signed title from the seller, a completed application, bill of sale, and the $20 title fee to MDDNR. Vessel excise tax must also be paid within 30 days.
$20.00
$20.00
Available
Before registering a newly purchased boat, verify the seller's ownership documents, bill of sale, HIN, and any lien release. The state-specific transfer process above should be matched with the national used-boat and lien-check steps.
Registration Renewal in Maryland
Check the listed Maryland Department of Natural Resources (MDDNR) renewal source before operating with an expired or uncertain registration.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources (MDDNR) handles the listed renewal source for this state. Use the renewal guide to compare online, mail, and in-person renewal patterns before relying on a notice or expired registration date.
Official source links for Maryland were checked on 2026-05-01.
Boater Safety Education in Maryland
All operators of motorized vessels and personal watercraft on Maryland waters must have a Maryland Boating Safety Certificate, regardless of age.
- U.S. Coast Guard licensed operators
- Non-residents with a valid boater education card from their home state
Registration Number Display Rules
All registered vessels in Maryland must display their registration number and validation stickers according to the following requirements:
Maryland vs Neighboring States
Neighboring state data will be available once more states are added.
Maryland commercial boat registration checklist
Using a vessel for charter, business ownership, documented-vessel, or other commercial activity can add questions beyond a standard recreational registration. Review the commercial checklist status before changing use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland Boat Registration
How much does it cost to register a boat in Maryland?
Maryland charges a flat $70 for two-year vessel registration (effective October 1, 2025 — increased from $24). This applies to all motorized vessels regardless of size.
How long is boat registration valid in Maryland?
Maryland boat registration is valid for 2 years.
What is the vessel excise tax in Maryland?
Maryland charges a 5% vessel excise tax on the purchase price, with a maximum of $16,000 (effective July 1, 2025). Tax must be paid within 30 days of purchase.
Do I need a title for my boat in Maryland?
Yes, all registered vessels must be titled. The title fee increased to $20 (effective October 2025).
Can I register my boat online in Maryland?
Yes, MDDNR offers online registration and renewal through their COMPASS system.
Do non-residents need to register in Maryland?
Non-residents with valid home-state registration may operate in Maryland for up to 90 consecutive days.
Do I need a boating safety certificate in Maryland?
Yes, all operators of motorized vessels and PWC must have a Maryland Boating Safety Certificate, regardless of age. This is one of the strictest requirements in the nation.
How do I transfer a boat title in Maryland?
Submit the signed title, application, bill of sale, and $20 title fee to MDDNR. The 5% vessel excise tax (max $16,000) also applies.
Ready to Register Your Boat in Maryland?
Visit the official Maryland Department of Natural Resources (MDDNR) website to start your boat registration or renewal.
Register at Maryland Department of Natural ResourcesOfficial source links for Maryland were checked on 2026-05-01.