Most new boats must be registered through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) before they can be sailed.

VESSELS THAT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. Any powerboat
2. Sailboats longer than twelve feet

VESSELS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. A sailboat twelve feet or less in length
2. A sailboard
3. Vessels that have been registered in another state, plying on Louisiana waters for 90 consecutive days or less.
4. Vessels documented with the US Coast Guard.

TO REGISTER

• You need a completed copy of the Boat Registration Application.
• A proof that taxes have been paid needs to be shown. Use the Tax Payment Certification for Boat Registration.
• You also need to submit a proof of ownership which could be dealer's receipt or Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO).
• For a homemade boat with no Hull Identification Number (HIN), an Application for Boat Inspection will need to be submitted.

TO REGISTER BY U.S. MAIL

The boat registration application, documents, and fees for the registration processes can be mailed to:

Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
P.O. Box 14796
Baton Rouge, LA 70898    

FEES

The registration fee varies depending on the length of the boat. The registration application lists all fees.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Both the vessel registration number and hull identification numbers must be clearly displayed on the vessel, according to Louisiana requirements.
• For additional information, see The Handbook of Louisiana Boating Laws and Responsibilities.