Missouri requires boat registration through the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the process depends on whether your boat is new, used, or imported from another state

All motorized boats and sailboats 16 feet or longer must be registered in Missouri. The registration is handled by the Missouri State Highway Patrol's Boating and Water Safety Section, not by the Department of Motor Vehicles. You can register in person at a Highway Patrol office, by mail, or online through the Missouri State Highway Patrol website. The process typically takes one to two weeks by mail and is faster in person.

Registration costs vary based on boat length and type. A boat under 16 feet with a motor does not require registration, but registering it is optional and may be worth doing for proof of ownership. Non-motorized boats of any size do not need to register unless they are rented or used commercially.

Key Takeaways

  • Motorized boats and sailboats 16 feet or longer must register with the Missouri State Highway Patrol, not the DMV.
  • Registration fees depend on boat length and range from around $20 to $100 annually, though exact amounts vary by size category.
  • You will need the boat's hull identification number (HIN), proof of ownership, and a completed process form.
  • New boats come with a manufacturer's certificate of origin; used boats require a bill of sale or previous registration documentation.
  • Online registration is available through the Missouri State Highway Patrol website and is often the fastest option.

What documents you need to register

The Missouri State Highway Patrol requires a completed process for Boat Registration (Form 4149) and proof of ownership. For a new boat, bring the manufacturer's certificate of origin. For a used boat, you need either the previous boat registration, a bill of sale signed by the seller, or a notarized statement of ownership if the boat has no prior registration history.

You will also need the boat's hull identification number (HIN), which is permanently stamped into the hull. The HIN is usually located on the starboard (right) side of the boat near the top of the transom, though location varies by manufacturer. If you cannot find it, contact the boat's manufacturer or a dealer for help locating it.

Bring a valid photo ID and proof of Missouri residency if registering in person. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, or driver's license with a Missouri address. If you are registering by mail, a photocopy of your ID is acceptable.

How to register online or by mail

Online registration through the Missouri State Highway Patrol website is the fastest method. You will enter your boat information, upload a photo of the HIN, and pay the registration fee by credit or debit card. The system generates a temporary registration number when ready, and your permanent registration certificate arrives by mail within one to two weeks.

To register by mail, complete Form 4149, gather your proof of ownership documents, and send them to the Missouri State Highway Patrol Boating and Water Safety Section. Include a check or money order for the registration fee. Mail processing takes two to three weeks. The address is listed on the form and on the Highway Patrol's website.

In-person registration at a Highway Patrol office is the quickest way to receive your registration certificate the same day. Bring all required documents and payment. Highway Patrol offices are located throughout Missouri; you can find the nearest office on the State Highway Patrol website.

Registration fees and renewal timing

Missouri boat registration fees are based on boat length and type. Fees typically range from approximately $20 for boats under 20 feet to higher amounts for larger vessels, though the exact fee depends on your boat's specific length category. The State Highway Patrol website lists the current fee schedule by boat length.

Registration is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be renewed annually. You will receive a renewal notice by mail about 30 days before expiration. Renewal can be done online, by mail, or in person using the same methods as initial registration. Late renewal may result in a penalty fee.

If you sell your boat, the registration does not transfer to the new owner. The new owner must register it in their name. You should notify the State Highway Patrol that you no longer own the boat to avoid liability for violations or accidents involving the vessel after the sale.

Boats imported from other states

If you move to Missouri with a boat registered in another state, you must register it in Missouri within 30 days of establishing residency. Bring your out-of-state registration, proof of ownership, and proof of Missouri residency to a Highway Patrol office or submit these documents by mail with Form 4149.

You do not need to cancel your previous registration; Missouri will issue a new registration, and the old one becomes inactive once you register in Missouri. Some states offer a credit toward Missouri registration if your out-of-state registration is still valid, though this varies. Contact the State Highway Patrol to ask whether a credit applies to your situation.

What happens if you do not register

Operating an unregistered motorized boat or sailboat 16 feet or longer in Missouri is a violation of state boating law. Law enforcement can stop you on the water and issue a citation. Penalties include fines that increase with repeat violations and possible confiscation of the boat in some cases.

Unregistered boats also cannot be legally launched at public boat ramps in Missouri. Many marinas and rental facilities will not allow unregistered boats on their property. If you are involved in an accident with an unregistered boat, your liability insurance may not cover damages.

Special situations and exemptions

Boats under 16 feet with a motor are not required to register but may be registered at your option. Non-motorized boats of any size do not need registration unless they are used for commercial purposes or rental. Boats registered for commercial use have different requirements and higher fees.

Boats owned by non-residents who are temporarily in Missouri (visiting for less than 90 days) do not need to register if they hold a valid registration from their home state. However, if you become a Missouri resident, you must register within 30 days regardless of how long your out-of-state registration remains valid.

Boats used exclusively on private property do not need to register. If your boat never leaves your private pond or lake, registration is not required. However, once you launch it on public water, registration becomes mandatory if it meets the size and motor requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I find the hull identification number on my boat?

The HIN is stamped into the hull, usually on the starboard (right) side near the top of the transom. Check the interior transom as well if the exterior location is not visible. If you cannot locate it, contact your boat's manufacturer or a local dealer for the specific location on your model.

Can I register my boat online if I just bought it used?

Yes, you can register a used boat online if you have the bill of sale or previous registration. Upload a photo of the HIN and your proof of ownership through the Missouri State Highway Patrol website. The process is the same as registering a new boat.

What if I lose my registration certificate?

Contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol Boating and Water Safety Section to request a duplicate. You can do this by mail or in person at a Highway Patrol office. There is a small fee for a replacement certificate, and processing takes one to two weeks by mail.

Do I need to register a boat I only use on private property?

No, boats used exclusively on private property do not need to register. Registration is only required when the boat is launched on public water. If you move your boat to public water later, you must register it before launching.

What happens to my registration if I move out of Missouri?

Your Missouri registration becomes invalid once you establish residency in another state. You should cancel it and register your boat in your new state according to that state's requirements. Contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol to notify them that you no longer reside in Missouri.