Overview
Titling is separate and cheap on paper - just $2 - but carries its own 6% title tax on the purchase price, paid to Harbor Patrol rather than DC DMV. Fees are typically payable only by check or money order made out to 'D.C. Treasurer,' and duplicate decals or registration cards run $5 each. The calculator below totals a first-time registration; renewals just repeat the annual length-based fee.
01 - Official fees
Washington D.C. boat registration fees at a glance
| Fee | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Non-motorized vessel | $10.00/yr | |
| Under 16 ft (motorized) | $15.00/yr | |
| 16 ft to 26 ft | $25.00/yr | |
| 26 ft to 40 ft | $35.00/yr | |
| Over 40 ft | $60.00/yr | |
| Boat title | $2.00 | |
| Title tax | 6% | of purchase price |
| Duplicate decal or registration card | $5.00 each |
Figures verified June 2026 against official sources (listed below). Always confirm the final amount with the DC DMV - counties can add small local fees.
02 - Step by step
How to register a boat in D.C.
- 1
Get the signed-over title (or manufacturer's statement of origin for a new boat).
- 2
Complete the OVERS (Online Vessel Registration) application or visit Harbor Patrol at 550 Water Street SW.
- 3
Pay the $2 title fee plus 6% title tax on the purchase price, and the length-based annual registration.
- 4
Pay by check or money order to 'D.C. Treasurer' - Harbor Patrol does not process all payment types like DC DMV does.
- 5
Display your DC registration numbers and current-year decal on both sides of the bow before you're on the water.
03 - Same state, other costs
More Washington D.C. vehicle costs
04 - Common questions
Washington D.C. boat registration FAQ
Do D.C. boats register with the DMV?
No - boat and vessel registration in the District goes through the Metropolitan Police Department's Harbor Patrol, the same unit that patrols the Potomac and Anacostia rivers, not DC DMV. Their main office is at 550 Water Street SW.
How much does D.C. boat registration cost per year?
$10 for a non-motorized vessel, $15 for a motorized boat under 16 feet, $25 for 16–26 feet, $35 for 26–40 feet, and $60 for anything over 40 feet - renewed annually, not biennially like most DC vehicle tags.
When does D.C. boat registration expire?
Every December 31, regardless of when during the year you first registered - unlike a rolling anniversary date. Renew before the calendar flips or you're operating unregistered on January 1.
What's the tax on buying a used boat in D.C.?
A 6% title tax on the purchase price, paid to Harbor Patrol alongside the flat $2 title fee - separate from and much simpler than the vehicle excise tax's MPG/weight grid, since boats are taxed on price, not a book-value formula.
Do kayaks and canoes need to register in D.C.?
Unpowered vessels still register, just at the lowest $10 annual tier - Harbor Patrol's registration requirement applies to virtually all vessels operated on District waters, motorized or not.
Can I pay Harbor Patrol registration fees online or by card?
Fees are generally payable by check or money order made out to 'D.C. Treasurer' rather than card, which is a common surprise for boat owners used to DC DMV's online card payments for vehicles. Confirm current accepted methods before your visit.
05 - Receipts
Official sources
Every number on this page comes from these documents - check them yourself.