Most new boats must be registered through the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles before they can be sailed.

VESSELS THAT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. All motorized boats, irrespective of size.
2. Non-motorized boats measuring 19 ½ feet or more..
3. Personal watercrafts like jet skis.

VESSELS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. Any non-motorized boat that measures less than 19 ½ feet.

TO REGISTER IN PERSON

• You can register a boat in person by visiting your local DMV office.
• You must bring a completed boat registration application, proof of ownership documents such as a bill of sale, and proof of payment of Sales and Use Tax. All boats must have a Hull Identification Number and this should be given in the application.

TO REGISTER BY U.S. MAIL

The boat registration application and proof of ownership documents such as a bill of sale, and proof of payment of Sales and Use Tax can also be mailed to:

Department of Motor Vehicles
Marine Vessel Section
60 State Street
Wethersfield, CT 06161    

FEES

Connecticut boat registration fee is based on the hull material (fiberglass, metal, wood, etc.) and length of the boat. See here for a more detailed breakdown of the registration fees. Payment can be made by cash, credit card or check. Checks must be made payable to DMV.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Both the vessel registration number and hull identification numbers must be clearly displayed on the vessel, according to Connecticut requirements.
• See Connecticut regulations on Boating Safety here.