Most new boats must be registered through the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources before they can be sailed.

[edit] VESSELS THAT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. Any powerboat
2. Sailboats
3. Hired boats

[edit] VESSELS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. Vessels using a temporary number.
2. Any boat that is propelled only by oars or paddles.
3. Boats registered in another state and not being used in Alabama for more than 90 days
4. A ship's lifeboat.
5. Boats registered in another country temporarily plying in Alabama waters.
6. Boats owned by the United States, a solitary state, a county, or a municipality.
7. Commercial boats registered with the US Coast Guard.
8. Boat trailers do not need to be licensed.

[edit] TO REGISTER IN PERSON

• You can register a boat in person by visiting your local county Judge of Probate or License Commissioner or with the Marine Police Division office in Montgomery, AL with proof of taxes paid.
• You must bring a completed boat registration application and proof of ownership such as a bill of sale, previous registration, invoice, bill of lading, certificate of origin, or out-of-state title. The correct length of the vessel must be mentioned in the application in order to determine the class and fees.

[edit] FEES

Boat registration fees range from $20 to $100, depending on the size of the vessel. See here for a more detailed breakdown of the registration fees and the classes of vessels based on size.

[edit] ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• The current decal must be clearly displayed on the vessel, according to Alabama requirements.