Most new boats must be registered through the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR) before they can be sailed.

VESSELS THAT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. Any boat plying on Hawaii waters

VESSELS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. Any boat that is propelled only by oars or paddles
2. Sailboats 8 feet or less in length
3. A ship's lifeboat
4. Boats owned by the United states, a solitary state, a county, or a municipality
5. Boats registered with the US Coast Guard
6. Racing boats

TO REGISTER IN PERSON

• You can register a boat only in person for the first time by visiting your nearest DOBOR Office.
• You must bring a completed boat registration application and proof of ownership such as a bill of sale, invoice, bill of lading, certificate of origin, or out-of-state title and a proof of identification (like license or state-issued ID card).

FEES

You may call 808 587-1882 or contact the Vessel Registration Office for more details on fees.

Vessel Registration
Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation
333 Queen Street, Suite 300
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Telephone: (808) 587-1970    

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Both the vessel registration number and current decals must be clearly displayed on the vessel, according to Hawaii requirements.
• Commercial vessels over a specific weight and length must be registered with the U.S. Coast Guard only