Boat Registration and Licenses

What to Register

• All motorized boats and watercraft.

• All sailboats and outboard motors with 5 horsepower or more must be titled.

What Not to Register

• Windsurfers.

• Non-motorized rowboats.

• Non-motorized canoes.

• Non-motorized kayaks.

Exemptions

• Any boat documented with the U.S. Coast Guard.

• Boats registered in another state and only in South Carolina on a temporary basis.

Requirements and Procedures

Titles and registrations are handled by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Submit the following:

1. Current title, if the boat is used; or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin, if the watercraft is new.
2. A notarized bill of sale.
3. A completed Watercraft/Outboard Motor Application.
4. Payment of all fees and taxes.

Visit the DNR's Web site for title and registration transfer information for all other scenarios (estates, boats purchased in other states, etc.).

Fees

• Title and registration for new boats: $40

• Title and registration for transferred boats: $16

• Title and registration for sailboats with motorized propulsion: $40

• Title for sailboats without motorized propulsion: $10

• Boat registration renewal: $30

Renewals and Replacements

Boat registrations are valid for three years.

Renew Online

Renew online within 45 days of your registration's expiration date.

Renew by Mail

Mail the renewal form to the address on your renewal notice. If you did not receive a renewal notification, complete a Watercraft/Outboard Motor Application. Cost: $30

Renew in Person

Drop off your renewal notice at any DNR location.

Replace Lost Registration

Complete a Watercraft/Outboard Motor Application and mail it to the address at the top of the form. Cost: $1

Boater License

Boaters younger than 16 can operate a boat with 15 or more horsepower if they complete a state-approved boating safety class, or are accompanied by an adult.

Boater Safety Courses

• Online: Take a state-approved online course through Boater Exam.

• Classroom: The DNR offers courses throughout the state.

• Home Study: Call (800) 830-2268 for more information.