What you need to register a boat in Delaware

Delaware requires you to register any boat with a motor, regardless of size, before you use it on state waters. The Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife handles boat registration through a system that takes about two weeks to process by mail. You can also register in person at their office in Dover, which is faster.

The registration itself costs money — the amount depends on the length of your boat and whether you want a one-year or three-year registration. A one-year registration for a boat under 16 feet costs less than a three-year registration for the same boat, but the three-year option spreads the cost across more years.

Once approved, you receive a registration number that you must display on both sides of your boat's hull. The number stays with the boat until the registration expires or you sell it.

Key Takeaways

  • Delaware requires registration for any motorized boat before it enters state waters, and the Division of Fish and Wildlife processes all registrations.
  • You can register by mail (takes about two weeks) or in person at the Dover office (faster), and the cost depends on boat length and registration length.
  • You must display the registration number on both sides of your boat's hull in numbers at least three inches tall.
  • Registration expires on a set date each year, and you renew by submitting a renewal form and payment before that date.

Documents and information you need before you register

Gather your boat's hull identification number (HIN) before you start — this is a unique code stamped or attached to the boat, usually on the starboard (right) side near the top of the transom. If your boat is very old or homemade, it may not have a HIN, and you will need to contact the Division of Fish and Wildlife to find out what to do instead.

You also need proof of ownership. If you bought the boat new, bring the manufacturer's statement of origin. If you bought it used, bring the bill of sale signed by the previous owner. If the boat is financed, bring the lien holder's information — Delaware will note them on your registration.

Have your Social Security number or federal tax ID ready, along with your current mailing address. If you are registering the boat under a business name rather than your own name, bring your business registration documents.

How to register by mail

read the boat registration form from the Division of Fish and Wildlife website, or call them at (302) 739-9910 to request one by mail. Fill in your name, address, the boat's HIN, the boat's length, the motor type (outboard, inboard, jet ski, or other), and the year the boat was built.

Write a check or money order for the registration fee — do not send cash. Include your proof of ownership with the form. Mail everything to the Division of Fish and Wildlife, Boat Registration Section, in Dover. The address is on the form itself.

Processing takes about two weeks from the day they receive your packet. You will receive your registration certificate and a set of numbers to display on the hull. If something is missing or unclear, they will call you, which can add time.

How to register in person

The Division of Fish and Wildlife office in Dover is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Bring your completed registration form, proof of ownership, and payment. You can pay by check, money order, or cash. Staff will review everything on the spot and issue your registration certificate the same day if all documents are correct.

The office is located at 89 Kings Highway, Dover, Delaware 19901. Parking is available. If you are coming from outside Dover, call ahead at (302) 739-9910 to confirm they have the form you need and that staff will be available.

Registration fees and how long registration lasts

Delaware charges different fees based on boat length and registration term. A one-year registration for a boat under 16 feet costs one amount; a boat 16 to 26 feet costs more; and boats over 26 feet cost even more. A three-year registration costs more upfront but works out to less per year.

Your registration is valid from the date it is issued until the same date the following year (or three years later if you chose a three-year term). You do not have to renew on a specific calendar date — the expiration date is printed on your certificate. Mark it on your calendar or set a phone reminder so you do not miss it.

If your registration expires and you continue to use the boat, you are operating without a valid registration, which can result in a fine. Renew before the expiration date by submitting a renewal form and payment to the same office.

Displaying your registration number on the boat

The Division of Fish and Wildlife will send you a set of numbers and letters that make up your registration number. You must paint or attach these numbers to both the port (left) and starboard (right) sides of your boat's hull, as close to the bow (front) as possible without going onto the bow itself.

The numbers must be at least three inches tall, in a contrasting color to the hull (dark numbers on a light hull, or light numbers on a dark hull), and straightforward to read from the water. Do not use stick-on decals that can peel off — paint them directly onto the hull or use a permanent adhesive method.

If the numbers become faded or damaged, repaint them. If you lose or damage your registration certificate, contact the Division of Fish and Wildlife to request a replacement.

What happens if you sell your boat

When you sell a boat, the registration does not transfer to the new owner. The new owner must register it in their own name. You should notify the Division of Fish and Wildlife that you no longer own the boat — this protects you if the new owner fails to register it or uses it illegally.

Send a letter to the Division stating the sale date, the new owner's name and address, and the boat's HIN. Keep a copy for your records. The Division will update their records so you are no longer listed as the owner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register a boat with no motor?

No. Delaware only requires registration for motorized boats. Sailboats, rowboats, canoes, and kayaks do not need registration unless they have a motor attached.

What if my boat does not have a hull identification number?

Call the Division of Fish and Wildlife at (302) 739-9910 and explain the situation. They will tell you what documents to bring instead, such as a detailed bill of sale or manufacturer's documentation. Homemade boats and very old boats sometimes fall into this category.

Can I register a boat I do not own yet?

No. You must own the boat and have proof of ownership before you register it. If you are buying a boat, wait until the sale is complete and you have the bill of sale or title before you contact the Division.

How do I renew my registration?

Submit a renewal form and payment before your expiration date. You can renew by mail or in person using the same process as initial registration. The Division will send you a renewal form in the mail before your registration expires.

What if I move to a different address?

Contact the Division of Fish and Wildlife with your new address. You can call, mail a letter, or visit in person. Update your address before your registration expires so renewal notices reach you.