How to Register a Boat or Water Craft in Virginia

Most new boats must be registered through the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) before they can be sailed. Registrations are valid for three years.

VESSELS THAT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

Any motorboat (including those using motors as secondary propelling source).
Sailboats longer than 18 feet.

VESSELS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE REGISTRATION

Boats registered in another state and not being used in Virginia for more than 90 days.
A ship's lifeboat.
Boats registered in another country temporarily plying in Virginia waters.
Boats owned by the United States, a solitary state, a county, or a municipality.
Sailboats less than 18 feet in length.
Any boat that is propelled only by oars or paddles.
Boats registered in another state and not used being in Virginia for more than 90 consecutive days.
Boats registered by the U.S. Coast Guard or its successive federal agency.
Racing boats brought into the State for racing while in competition and during trial runs 48 hours before or the same after a race.

TO REGISTER IN PERSON

You can register a boat in person by visiting the Boat Section of the DGIF Headquarters in Richmond.
You must bring a completed boat registration application and proof of ownership such as a bill of sale, invoice, bill of lading, previous registration and title, certificate of origin, or out-of-state title, and appropriate fees.

TO REGISTER BY U.S. MAIL

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

Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries

Boat Section

4010, West Broad Street,

P.O. Box 11528,

Richmond, VA 23230

For additional information, call the toll free number 1-877-898-BOAT (2628) or call 804-367-6135 to contact a Boating Services Technician.

FEES

Boat registration fees range from $21 to $45, 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 Virginia requirements.
The vessel's registration papers must be carried on the vessel while sailing.

DMV.com