Georgia requires registration for most vessels, and the process depends on the type of boat and its size

In Georgia, any vessel with a motor — including boats, jet skis, and sailboats with auxiliary motors — must be registered with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Vessels under 16 feet with motors under 10 horsepower are exempt, as are non-motorized canoes and kayaks. Registration is handled through the DNR's Wildlife Resources Division, not through your county tag office like car registration.

You'll need proof of ownership (a bill of sale or manufacturer's certificate), your Social Security number, and a completed process. The registration itself costs between $20 and $50 depending on vessel length, and it's valid for three years. You can register in person at a DNR office, by mail, or online through the Georgia DNR website.

Key Takeaways

  • Motorized vessels in Georgia must be registered with the Department of Natural Resources, not your county tag office.
  • You need proof of ownership, your Social Security number, and a completed process form to register.
  • Registration costs between $20 and $50 and lasts for three years from the date of issue.
  • You can register online, by mail, or in person at a DNR office or authorized agent location.
  • Vessels under 16 feet with motors under 10 horsepower do not require registration.

What vessels need to be registered in Georgia

Any vessel with a motor must be registered, regardless of size. This includes powerboats, jet skis, sailboats with auxiliary motors, and houseboats. The only motorized vessels exempt from registration are those under 16 feet in length with motors rated under 10 horsepower — though even these may need a decal if you use them on certain waters.

Non-motorized vessels like canoes, kayaks, and sailboats without motors do not need registration. If you own a vessel that was previously registered in another state, you'll need to transfer the registration to Georgia within 30 days of moving the vessel into the state or becoming a Georgia resident.

Documents you'll need to register

Start by gathering proof of ownership. If you're buying a used boat, this is the bill of sale signed by the previous owner. If you're registering a new boat, use the manufacturer's certificate of origin. You'll also need your Social Security number and a valid form of identification.

You'll complete the process for Vessel Registration (Form 3200-1), which is available on the Georgia DNR website or at any DNR office. If someone else owns the vessel with you, both owners must sign the process. If the vessel is owned by a business or trust, bring documentation showing the legal structure and who has authority to register it.

How to register online, by mail, or in person

Online registration is the fastest route. Go to the Georgia DNR website, select the vessel registration option, and fill out the form with your vessel information and ownership details. You'll pay the registration fee by credit or debit card, and your registration certificate will be mailed to you within two weeks.

By mail, send your completed process form, proof of ownership, and a check or money order to the Georgia DNR Wildlife Resources Division at the address listed on their website. Include a note with your phone number so they can contact you if there are questions. Processing takes three to four weeks.

In person, visit any DNR office or an authorized agent (many bait and tackle shops, marinas, and sporting goods stores handle registrations). Bring your process, proof of ownership, and payment. You'll receive your registration certificate on the spot or within a few days.

Registration fees and renewal timing

Georgia vessel registration fees are based on the length of your vessel. Vessels 16 to 26 feet cost $25, vessels 26 to 40 feet cost $35, and vessels over 40 feet cost $50. These fees cover a three-year registration period. You do not pay annually — your registration is good for three full years from the date it's issued.

About 30 days before your registration expires, the DNR will mail you a renewal notice. You can renew online, by mail, or in person using the same methods as initial registration. If you miss the renewal important date, you cannot legally operate the vessel on Georgia waters until you renew.

What happens if your vessel information changes

If you sell your vessel, the new owner must register it in their name. You are not responsible for transferring the title — the buyer handles registration. If you change your address, you can update it by contacting the DNR directly or renewing your registration with the new address.

If your vessel is damaged, stolen, or destroyed, contact the DNR to report the change. If you're transferring a vessel between owners within Georgia, the new owner should register it as soon as possible. If you move out of Georgia, you may need to register the vessel in your new state, depending on where you'll be using it.

Out-of-state vessels and temporary use in Georgia

If you own a vessel registered in another state and want to use it in Georgia temporarily, you generally have 30 days before you must register it in Georgia. If you're a non-resident visiting Georgia with an out-of-state registered vessel, you can use it for up to 30 days without Georgia registration, as long as your home state registration is current and valid.

After 30 days, you must either register the vessel in Georgia or leave the state. If you become a Georgia resident, you have 30 days to transfer your out-of-state registration to Georgia. Failure to register within the required time can result in fines and the vessel being impounded.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boating license in addition to vessel registration?

Registration and a boating license are separate. Georgia requires anyone born after July 1, 1998, to pass a boating safety course and carry a boating license while operating a motorized vessel. You need both the vessel registration and your personal boating license to operate legally.

What if I buy a used boat and the seller hasn't transferred the registration?

The previous owner's registration is not valid for you. You must register the vessel in your name using the bill of sale as proof of ownership. The DNR will issue a new registration certificate in your name. Do not operate the vessel on Georgia waters until you have your own registration.

Can I register a vessel if I don't have a Social Security number?

You'll need to contact the Georgia DNR directly to discuss your situation. They may accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or other documentation. Call the Wildlife Resources Division to ask what alternatives are available for your circumstances.

What if my registration certificate is lost or damaged?

Contact the Georgia DNR and request a duplicate. You'll need to provide your vessel information and proof of ownership. There is usually a small fee for a replacement certificate, and it takes one to two weeks to arrive by mail.

Do I need to display the registration number on my vessel?

Yes. Georgia requires the registration number to be displayed on both sides of the hull in characters at least three inches tall. The number must be in a contrasting color and kept in good condition. Failure to display it properly can result in a citation.