Most new boats must be registered through the Oregon State Marine Board before they can be sailed.

VESSELS THAT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. Any motorboat (including those using motors as secondary propelling source).
2. Sailboats longer than 12 feet.

VESSELS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

1. Lightship Columbia.
2. Racing boats.
3. Any boat that is propelled only by oars or paddles.
4. Sailboats propelled by sails and less than 12 feet.
5. A ship's lifeboat.
6. Boats registered in another state and not being used in Oregon for more than 60 days.
7. Boats registered by the U.S. Coast Guard.

TO REGISTER IN PERSON

• You can register a boat in person by visiting the Oregon State Marine Board in Salem. Registrations can also be renewed through the large state-wide network of Bonded Registration Agents (mostly dealers and sports stores) who charge a nominal fee (up to $2.50) for the registration and also provide a temporary permit to be used till the permanent card arrives.
• You must bring the completed boat registration application, proof of ownership such as a bill of sale, invoice, previous title and registration, certificate of origin, sales tax receipt, and the appropriate fees.

TO REGISTER BY U.S. MAIL

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

Oregon State Marine Board
P.O. Box 14145
Salem, OR 97309-5065    

FEES

Boat registration fees range from $21 to $213, depending on the size of the boat. See here for a more detailed breakdown of the registration fees. In addition, vessels registered in Oregon are subject to title fees at the time of registration.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Both the vessel registration number and current decals must be clearly displayed on the vessel, according to Oregon requirements.
• The vessel's registration papers must be carried on the vessel while sailing.