What you need to register a boat in Mississippi

Mississippi requires you to register any boat with a motor, regardless of size, before you operate it on state waters. The registration process is handled by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP), and you can complete it in person at a regional office or through an authorized agent. You will need proof of ownership (a bill of sale or manufacturer's certificate of origin), a completed process form, and payment of the registration fee.

The fee depends on the length of your boat and ranges from around $25 for boats under 16 feet to higher amounts for larger vessels. Registration is valid for three years from the date of issue. Non-resident boat owners can register in Mississippi, but the process and fees may differ slightly depending on your home state.

Key Takeaways

  • All motorized boats in Mississippi must be registered with the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks before use on state waters.
  • You will need proof of ownership, a completed process form, and payment of the registration fee to register your boat.
  • Registration is valid for three years and can be renewed by mail, in person, or through an authorized agent.
  • Registration fees vary based on boat length, starting at around $25 for smaller vessels.
  • Non-residents can register boats in Mississippi, though fees and requirements may differ from resident registration.

Where to register your boat in Mississippi

The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks operates several regional offices where you can register your boat in person. You can find the office nearest you by visiting the MDWFP website or calling their main office. Walk-in registration is available during business hours, and staff can answer questions about your specific boat and ownership situation.

If you prefer not to visit an office in person, you can register through an authorized agent — usually a marina, boat dealer, or sporting goods store that has partnered with MDWFP. These agents can process your registration and collect fees on behalf of the state. Not all agents handle all types of registrations, so call ahead to confirm they can help with your boat.

Documents and information you will need

Before you go to register, gather your proof of ownership. If you purchased the boat from a dealer, you should have a manufacturer's certificate of origin. If you bought it from a private seller, you need a bill of sale signed by both parties and showing the purchase price. If you inherited the boat or received it as a gift, bring documentation of that transfer.

You will also need to complete the boat registration process form, which MDWFP provides on its website or at any registration office. The form asks for your name, address, the boat's make and model, hull identification number (HIN), engine serial number, and how you plan to use the boat. Bring a valid photo ID and proof of your current address (a utility bill or lease works). If someone else owns the boat with you, both owners should be present or provide written authorization.

Registration fees and how long registration lasts

Mississippi boat registration fees are based on the length of your boat. Boats under 16 feet typically cost around $25, while boats 16 to 26 feet cost more, and larger vessels cost even more. The exact fee schedule is available on the MDWFP website or at any registration office. You pay the fee when you submit your process, and payment methods vary by location — some offices accept cash, check, and card, while authorized agents may have different payment options.

Your registration is valid for three years from the date it is issued. You will receive a registration number and decals to display on your boat. When your registration expires, you can renew it by mail, in person, or through an authorized agent. Renewal is usually simpler than initial registration because you already have proof of ownership on file.

Non-resident boat registration

If you live outside Mississippi but own a boat you operate in state waters, you can register it with MDWFP. Non-resident registration follows the same basic process as resident registration — you need proof of ownership, a completed process, and payment of the fee. However, some states have reciprocal agreements with Mississippi, which may affect your fee or allow you to use your home state registration instead.

Before you register as a non-resident, contact MDWFP to find out whether your home state has a reciprocal agreement with Mississippi. If it does, you may be able to use your current registration. If not, you will need to register in Mississippi to operate legally on state waters. Non-resident registration is also valid for three years.

What happens after you register

Once your registration is approved, MDWFP will issue you a registration number and send you decals to display on your boat. The decals must be affixed to both sides of the hull, usually near the stern. You are required to display these decals whenever you operate the boat on Mississippi waters. Keep your registration certificate with you when you are on the water — law enforcement may ask to see it.

If you sell your boat, the new owner must register it in their name before operating it. The registration does not transfer automatically. If you move out of state or no longer own the boat, you can cancel your registration by contacting MDWFP.

Renewing your registration before it expires

You can renew your registration up to 90 days before it expires. Renewal by mail is often the fastest option — MDWFP will send you a renewal notice with instructions before your current registration expires. You can also renew in person at any MDWFP office or through an authorized agent. Renewal requires payment of the fee and a completed renewal form, but you do not need to provide proof of ownership again unless the boat has changed hands.

If your registration expires before you renew, you cannot operate the boat on state waters until you renew it. Expired registrations can usually be renewed within a grace period, but it is best to renew before the expiration date to avoid any issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register a boat with no motor?

No. Mississippi only requires registration for boats with motors. Sailboats without motors, canoes, kayaks, and other non-motorized vessels do not need to be registered with MDWFP.

What if my boat has a manufacturer's certificate of origin but no bill of sale?

The manufacturer's certificate of origin is sufficient proof of ownership for a new boat. If you purchased a used boat and have only the certificate, bring it along with any other documentation of the sale, such as a receipt or email confirmation. MDWFP staff can advise you on whether additional paperwork is needed.

Can I register a boat I am buying if the sale has not closed yet?

No. You must have proof of ownership before you register. Once the sale is complete and you have the bill of sale or certificate of origin, you can register the boat. Most sellers will not allow you to operate the boat before the sale closes.

What do I do if I lose my registration decals?

Contact MDWFP to request replacement decals. You will need to provide your registration number and may need to pay a small replacement fee. You cannot operate the boat without the decals displayed, so order replacements as soon as you notice they are missing or damaged.

How do I know if my boat's hull identification number is correct?

The HIN is usually located on the starboard (right) side of the hull near the stern. It is a 12-character code that identifies your specific boat. Check your bill of sale or manufacturer's certificate to confirm the HIN matches what is on your boat. If there is a discrepancy, bring both documents to the registration office and staff can help you sort it out.