Most new boats must be registered through the New Mexico of Motor Vehicle Division with the State Parks Division before they can be sailed. Registrations are valid for 3 years.

VESSELS THAT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. Any motorboat (including those using motors as secondary propelling source)
2. Sailboats longer than 10 feet

VESSELS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. Sailboats (non-motorized) less than or equal to 10 feet in length
2. Any boat that is propelled only by oars or paddles
3. Surfboards or sailboards
4. A ship's lifeboat
5. Boats registered in another country/state and not being used in New Mexico for more than 90 days
6. Boats owned by the United states, a solitary state, a county, or a municipality
7. Boats registered with the U.S. Coast Guard

TO REGISTER IN PERSON

• You can register a boat in person by visiting your local MVD field office. You must call the office at 1-888-MVD-INFO before going to make sure they have an officer familiar with boat paperwork procedures.
• You must bring a completed Application for Vessel Title and Registration (MVD-10003 form) and proof of ownership such as a bill of sale, invoice, bill of lading, previous registration or title, certificate of origin, or out-of-state title.

FEES

Boat registration fees range from $28.50 to $66, depending on the size of the vessel. See here for a more detailed breakdown of the registration fees.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Both the vessel registration number and current decals must be clearly displayed on the vessel, according to New Mexico requirements.
• The vessel's registration papers must be carried on the vessel while sailing.
• Commercial vessels of five net tons or more than 26 feet in length must be registered with the U.S. Coast Guard only, and not with the New Mexico State Parks Division.