Louisiana requires boat registration through LDWF, and the process depends on whether your boat is motorized

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) registers all boats operated in Louisiana state waters. If your boat has a motor of any size — even an electric trolling motor — it must be registered. Non-motorized boats like canoes, kayaks, and sailboats without motors do not require registration, though you may still need a boating safety certificate depending on who operates the boat.

Registration is not optional and not free. You pay a fee based on boat length and motor type, and you receive a registration number that must be displayed on both sides of the hull. The certificate itself is valid for three years from the date of issue.

You can register in person at any LDWF office, by mail, or online through the LDWF website. Online registration is the fastest route if you have all required documents ready. Mail processing typically takes two to three weeks; in-person registration is when ready.

Key Takeaways

  • Any boat with a motor of any size must be registered with LDWF; non-motorized boats do not require registration.
  • Registration costs vary by boat length and motor type, and the certificate is valid for three years.
  • You need proof of ownership (title, bill of sale, or manufacturer's certificate), your Social Security number or federal tax ID, and a completed process form.
  • Online registration through the LDWF website is the fastest option if you have all documents; mail and in-person registration are also available.
  • The registration number must be displayed on both sides of the hull in characters at least three inches tall.

What documents you need before you register

LDWF requires proof that you own the boat. This can be a title issued by another state, a bill of sale, a manufacturer's certificate of origin, or a previous Louisiana registration certificate. If the boat is financed, the lender's name may appear on the title; you can still register it, but the lender has a security interest in the vessel.

You also need your Social Security number or federal tax identification number, your current mailing address, and the boat's hull identification number (HIN). The HIN is a 12-character code stamped or attached to the hull, usually on the starboard (right) side near the top. If you cannot locate it, bring the boat to an LDWF office and staff can help you find it.

If you are registering a boat you just bought, bring the bill of sale or title transfer document. If you are renewing an existing registration, you need only the renewal notice and payment. If the boat's ownership or address has changed since the last registration, bring documentation of the change.

How to register online through the LDWF website

Visit the LDWF website and navigate to the boat registration section. You will create an account or log in if you already have one. The online form asks for your personal information, the boat's HIN, motor type and horsepower, boat length, and proof of ownership details.

Upload a clear image of your proof of ownership — front and back if it is a title or bill of sale. The system accepts PDF, JPG, and PNG files. Once you submit the form, you pay the registration fee by credit card or debit card. LDWF processes online applications within one to three business days and emails your registration certificate.

Print the certificate and keep it on the boat or with your boating documents. You must display the registration number on the hull within 30 days of receiving the certificate. If you do not receive a confirmation email within three business days, contact LDWF directly to confirm receipt.

Registering by mail or in person at an LDWF office

To register by mail, read the boat registration process form from the LDWF website or request one by phone. Complete the form in full, including your name, address, Social Security number, and all boat details. Make a copy of your proof of ownership and include both the form and the copy in an envelope with a check or money order for the registration fee.

Mail the packet to the LDWF address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks. LDWF will mail your certificate to the address you provided. If you do not receive it within four weeks, call LDWF to check the status.

For in-person registration, visit any LDWF regional office during business hours. Bring your completed process form, proof of ownership, and payment in cash, check, or card. Staff will verify your documents, process the registration, and issue your certificate on the spot. No appointment is needed, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

Registration fees and how they are calculated

LDWF registration fees depend on the boat's length and whether it has a motor. Motorized boats are charged by length in five-foot increments: a boat 16 feet or shorter costs less than a boat 17 to 21 feet, which costs less than a boat 22 to 26 feet, and so on. The fee structure changes periodically, so check the LDWF website or call for current rates.

Non-motorized boats do not require registration and have no fee. If you add a motor to a previously non-motorized boat, you must register it. If you remove the motor permanently, you may be able to cancel the registration and receive a partial refund; contact LDWF for details.

Renewal fees are the same as initial registration fees. You can renew online, by mail, or in person. LDWF sends renewal notices 60 days before your certificate expires. Renewing before expiration avoids a late fee.

Displaying the registration number on your boat

Once you receive your registration certificate, you must display the registration number on both the port (left) and starboard (right) sides of the hull. The numbers must be at least three inches tall, in a contrasting color to the hull, and clearly visible from the water. Use paint, decals, or carved letters — all are acceptable as long as the numbers do not fade or become illegible within the three-year registration period.

Place the numbers as close to the bow (front) as practical, typically within the forward third of the hull. Do not place them on a removable part like a motor cover or trim tab. If the numbers become faded or illegible, repaint or replace them when ready. A boat without visible registration numbers can be cited by law enforcement.

You must also carry your registration certificate on the boat whenever it is operated. Keep it in a waterproof container in the cabin or a storage locker. If you are stopped by a game warden or law enforcement officer, you must produce the certificate on demand.

Renewing your registration before it expires

Your registration certificate is valid for three years from the date of issue. LDWF mails a renewal notice to your address on file 60 days before expiration. The notice includes the renewal fee and instructions for renewing online, by mail, or in person.

Renew online through the LDWF website using your account login. You do not need to upload proof of ownership again unless the boat's ownership or hull identification number has changed. Online renewal takes one to three business days.

If you renew after the expiration date, you may owe a late fee in addition to the regular registration fee. Operating a boat with an expired registration is a violation and can result in a citation. If you sell the boat or it is destroyed, notify LDWF in writing to cancel the registration and avoid renewal notices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register a kayak or canoe?

No. Non-motorized boats do not require LDWF registration. However, if you add any motor — even a small electric trolling motor — the boat must be registered before you operate it in Louisiana waters.

What if I buy a boat from out of state and it already has a registration from another state?

You must register it with LDWF within 30 days of bringing it into Louisiana. Bring the out-of-state registration or title as proof of ownership. LDWF will issue a Louisiana certificate, and you can keep the out-of-state registration for your records.

Can I register a boat if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can use a federal tax identification number instead. If you are a non-citizen or do not have either, contact LDWF directly to discuss your options; they may have alternative documentation requirements.

What happens if I lose my registration certificate?

Contact LDWF and request a duplicate certificate. You will need to provide your boat's hull identification number and proof of ownership. A replacement certificate costs less than a new registration and is processed within one to two weeks.

Do I need a boating safety certificate to operate a registered boat?

Louisiana requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1984, to complete a boating safety course and carry a certificate while operating any motorized boat. Registration and safety certification are separate requirements. You can take the course online through LDWF-approved providers.