Colorado requires boat registration through the Parks and Wildlife Division, and the process depends on whether your boat is new, used, or already registered in another state

All motorized boats and sailboats 12 feet or longer must be registered in Colorado if they operate on state waters. Registration is handled by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, not your county clerk or the DMV. You'll need proof of ownership (a bill of sale or title), proof of Colorado residency, and the boat's hull identification number (HIN). The registration itself costs between $30 and $100 depending on the boat's length and whether it's new or used, and it's valid for three years.

If you're moving to Colorado with a boat already registered elsewhere, you have 90 days to transfer the registration. If you're buying a used boat from a Colorado resident, the seller should have the title ready to sign over. New boats come with manufacturer documentation that serves as proof of ownership until you receive your official Colorado title.

Key Takeaways

  • Motorized boats and sailboats 12 feet or longer must be registered with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, not your county or the DMV.
  • You'll need the boat's hull identification number (HIN), proof of ownership, and proof of Colorado residency to complete registration.
  • Registration costs between $30 and $100 depending on boat length and is valid for three years.
  • If you move to Colorado with an out-of-state registration, you have 90 days to transfer it to Colorado.

Where to register your boat

Colorado Parks and Wildlife handles all boat registrations through their Parks and Wildlife office locations and online system. You can register in person at any Colorado Parks and Wildlife office, by mail, or online through their website. The online option is the fastest route if you have all your documents ready and a valid payment method.

If you register by mail, send your completed process form (available on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website), proof of ownership, proof of residency, and payment to the address listed on the form. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks. In-person registration at a Parks and Wildlife office is usually completed the same day.

Documents you need to bring or submit

The exact documents depend on whether your boat is new, used, or coming from out of state. For a used boat purchased in Colorado, you need the signed title from the previous owner, your proof of Colorado residency (a utility bill, lease, or driver's license with a Colorado address), and the boat's HIN. For a new boat, the manufacturer's documentation and proof of residency are sufficient until you receive your title.

If you're transferring a registration from another state, bring the out-of-state title or registration, proof that you now live in Colorado, and the HIN. Some states issue titles for boats; others issue registration certificates. Colorado Parks and Wildlife will accept either as proof of ownership. You'll also need to pay the Colorado registration fee at the time of transfer.

Hull identification numbers and how to find yours

The hull identification number (HIN) is a unique 12-character code assigned to every boat by its manufacturer. It's usually located on the starboard (right) side of the boat near the stern, or on the transom. On older boats, it may be on a metal plate. On newer boats, it's often molded into the fiberglass. Check your boat's documentation first — the HIN appears on the bill of sale, manufacturer's certificate, or any previous registration.

If you can't find the HIN on your boat or in your paperwork, contact the boat's manufacturer with the model year and model name. They can look up the HIN from their records. Don't guess or leave it blank on your registration form — Colorado Parks and Wildlife will reject the process if the HIN doesn't match their records or if it's missing.

Registration fees and what they cover

Colorado boat registration fees are based on the boat's length and whether it's new or used. A boat under 16 feet costs less than a boat 16 to 26 feet, which costs less than a boat over 26 feet. New boats (first-time Colorado registration) may have a different fee structure than used boats. The registration is valid for three years from the date of issue.

The fee covers the cost of issuing your registration certificate and decal. The decal must be displayed on your boat and is checked by Colorado Parks and Wildlife officers during inspections. If you lose your decal or registration certificate, you can request a replacement from Colorado Parks and Wildlife for a small fee. Your registration does not cover boating safety courses, launch fees at state parks, or mooring permits.

Transferring an out-of-state registration to Colorado

If you move to Colorado with a boat registered in another state, you have 90 days to transfer the registration. After 90 days, you cannot legally operate the boat on Colorado waters without a Colorado registration. To transfer, contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife with your out-of-state title or registration, proof of Colorado residency, and the boat's HIN.

Some states require you to cancel your registration with them before Colorado will issue a new one. Check with your previous state's boating authority before you move. If your out-of-state registration is still valid, you can operate the boat during the 90-day window, but you must complete the transfer before that period ends. Colorado Parks and Wildlife can tell you whether your previous state requires a cancellation letter.

What happens after you register

Once your registration is approved, Colorado Parks and Wildlife will mail you a registration certificate and a decal. The decal must be affixed to your boat in a visible location — usually on the hull near the bow. Keep the registration certificate with you whenever you operate the boat. Colorado Parks and Wildlife officers can ask to see it during inspections on the water.

Your registration is valid for three years. About 60 days before it expires, you'll receive a renewal notice in the mail. You can renew online, by mail, or in person at a Parks and Wildlife office. If you sell the boat, the new owner must register it in their name. The registration does not transfer with the boat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register a boat under 12 feet?

No. Colorado only requires registration for motorized boats and sailboats 12 feet or longer. Smaller boats, canoes, kayaks, and non-motorized vessels do not need registration, though they may need a launch permit at some state parks.

What if I buy a boat from a private seller without a title?

Colorado Parks and Wildlife can issue a title based on the bill of sale and proof of ownership. Bring the signed bill of sale, proof of the seller's previous ownership, and the boat's HIN. The process may take longer than a standard registration because they'll verify the boat's history.

Can I register a boat if I don't have a Colorado address yet?

No. You must have proof of Colorado residency to register. A utility bill, lease agreement, or Colorado driver's license with your current address will work. If you're moving soon, wait until you have a Colorado address before registering.

What if my boat's HIN is damaged or missing?

Contact the boat's manufacturer with the model year and model name so they can provide the HIN from their records. If the HIN is damaged on the boat itself, Colorado Parks and Wildlife may require a damage report or inspection before they issue registration.

Do I need to renew my registration every year?

No. Colorado boat registration is valid for three years. You'll receive a renewal notice about 60 days before expiration. You can renew online, by mail, or in person at any Colorado Parks and Wildlife office.