Montana Boat Registration:
Requirements, Fees & How to Apply (2026)
Complete guide to Montana boat registration. Learn about fees ($66-$296), required documents, online registration, title transfer, and renewal process.
Key Takeaway: Montana requires registration for motorboats, personal watercraft, and sailboats 12 feet or longer must be registered and numbered before operating on montana waters. Registration fees range from $66 to $296 and are valid for one-time registration (validation decals renewed every 3 years at no cost). A boat title is required. Online registration is available.
Which Boats Need Registration in Montana?
Must Register
All motorboats, personal watercraft, and sailboats 12 feet or longer must be registered and numbered before operating on Montana waters.
Exemptions
- Non-motorized sailboats less than 12 feet in length
- Manually propelled boats (canoes, kayaks, rowboats, paddleboards)
- USCG documented vessels (exempt from state numbering but must register)
- Government-owned vessels
Montana Boat Registration Fees & Costs
Registration Process in Montana
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 Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) / County Treasurer office.
Submit Application & Pay Fees
Complete the registration form and pay the applicable fees. Deadline: Before operating on Montana 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 Montana
All motorboats, personal watercraft, and sailboats 12 feet or longer must obtain a certificate of ownership (title) from the County Treasurer.
Issued by: County Treasurer in the county of residence
Submit the signed certificate of ownership from the seller, a completed application, a bill of sale, and payment of the title transfer fee to the County Treasurer in your county of residence.
$12.00
$12.00
Available
Registration Renewal in Montana
Boater Safety Education in Montana
Registration Number Display Rules
All registered vessels in Montana must display their registration number and validation stickers according to the following requirements:
Montana vs Neighboring States
Neighboring state data will be available once more states are added.
Frequently Asked Questions About Montana Boat Registration
How much does it cost to register a boat in Montana?
Montana charges a one-time registration fee based on vessel length: $65.50 for boats under 16 feet, $125.50 for boats 16–18 feet, and $295.50 for boats 19 feet and longer. Validation decals are renewed every 3 years at no additional cost.
Does Montana require a boat title?
Yes. All motorboats, personal watercraft, and sailboats 12 feet or longer must obtain a certificate of ownership (title) from the County Treasurer in the owner's county of residence.
Does Montana charge sales tax on boats?
No. Montana has no state sales tax, making it one of the most affordable states for boat purchases. However, if you move the boat to another state, that state may charge a use tax.
Is boater education required in Montana?
No, Montana does not currently require mandatory boater education. However, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks strongly recommends completing a NASBLA-approved boating safety course for all operators.
What is the AIS Prevention Pass?
The Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Prevention Pass funds programs to prevent the spread of invasive species like zebra mussels in Montana waterways. Residents are not charged, but non-residents operating motorized watercraft must purchase a $30 AIS Prevention Pass valid through December 31.
Can I register my boat online in Montana?
Yes, Montana offers online boat registration through the state's online portal at app.mt.gov/boatrego. You can also register in person at your County Treasurer's office.
How long is boat registration valid in Montana?
Montana boat registration is a one-time fee that does not expire. However, the validation decal must be renewed every 3 years, and this renewal is free of charge.
Do non-residents need to register their boat in Montana?
Non-residents with a valid home state registration may operate in Montana for up to 90 days without Montana registration. They must also purchase a $30 non-resident AIS Prevention Pass. After 90 days, Montana registration is required.
Ready to Register Your Boat in Montana?
Visit the official Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) / County Treasurer website to start your boat registration or renewal.
Register at Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks