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

VESSELS THAT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. Any motorized watercraft that is used mainly in Indiana waters.
2. Personal watercraft.
3. Motorized sailboats.

VESSELS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. A watercraft that is already registered in another state and is not used in Indiana for more than 60 consecutive days.
2. Any foreign vessel that is in Indiana temporarily.
3. A ship's lifeboat.
4. Non-motorized sailboats.

TO REGISTER IN PERSON

• You can register a boat in person by visiting your local BMV office.
• You must bring a completed Application for Watercraft Dealer Plates/Registration - State Form 43724 and proof of ownership such as a bill of sale, invoice, bill of lading, certificate of origin, or out-of-state title.

TO REGISTER BY U.S. MAIL

The boat registration application and proof of ownership can also be mailed to:

Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles
100 N. Senate Ave.
Indianapolis, IN 46204    

FEES

Boat registration fees range from $16 to $26, depending on the length of the vessel. See here for a more detailed breakdown of the registration fees.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Both the vessel registration number and hull identification numbers must be clearly displayed on the vessel, according to Indiana requirements.
• Commercial vessels of five net tons or more or 30 feet or more in length must be registered with the U.S. Coast Guard if the owner so wishes.
• Vessels that have not been used in Indiana waters for the last 60 days do not have to be registered. The owner has to complete a storage affidavit instead.