Take an Official State-Approved Boater Safety Course
Quick Answer
All motorized boats operated on Pennsylvania waters must be registered with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. Registration fees range from $22 to $60+ depending on boat length. Registrations are valid for two years. Non-motorized boats (kayaks, canoes, SUPs) need either a registration or a launch permit to use PFBC access areas and state park waters.
Also need your boating safety certificate for Pennsylvania?
All vessels propelled by machinery — gasoline, diesel, or electric motors — that are principally operated on Pennsylvania waters must be registered with the PFBC. This includes boats with even small trolling motors.
Boats already registered in another state that are only temporarily visiting Pennsylvania waters do not need Pennsylvania registration (for up to 60 days).
Boat Type / Length | Fee | Duration |
Motorboat under 16 feet | $22 | 2 years |
Motorboat 16 to under 20 feet | $40 | 2 years |
Motorboat 20 feet and over | $60 | 2 years |
Unpowered boat registration | $18 | 2 years |
Launch permit (1 year) | $10 | 1 year |
Launch permit (2 years) | $18 | 2 years |
Fees are subject to change. Check the PFBC website for the most current schedule.
Pennsylvania offers several registration methods:
When registering, you will need to provide the boat’s hull identification number (HIN), make, model, length, engine information, and proof of ownership.
Upon registration, you receive a Pennsylvania boat registration number and validation stickers. The registration number must be displayed on both sides of the bow in block letters at least 3 inches high. The validation sticker must be placed next to the registration number.
The registration card must be carried on board at all times during operation.
Pennsylvania requires titling for all motorboats. A Certificate of Title establishes legal ownership and is required for registration. Titles are issued by the PFBC, not the PennDOT.
When buying a used boat, ensure the seller provides a signed title for transfer. Without it, you cannot register the boat in Pennsylvania.
Kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, rowboats, and sailboats without motors are not required to be registered. However, they must display either a valid boat registration or a PFBC launch permit to use PFBC lakes and access areas, as well as DCNR state park and state forest waters.
Launch permits cost $10 for one year or $18 for two years. A launch permit is often the simpler and cheaper option for non-motorized boat owners who do not need mooring privileges (only registered boats can be moored overnight at PFBC facilities).
Boat registrations expire after two years. The PFBC typically sends renewal notices before expiration. You can renew online, by mail, or in person using the same methods as the initial registration.
Operating with an expired registration is a citable offense. Set a reminder to renew before your registration expires.
Boat registration and the Boating Safety Education Certificate are two completely separate requirements. Registration proves that the vessel is legally authorized to operate on Pennsylvania waters. The BSEC proves that the operator has completed required safety education.
You can own a registered boat without having the BSEC, but you cannot legally operate it (if the certificate is required for your birth date and vessel type) without one. See the complete Pennsylvania boating license guide for education requirements.
Explore more Pennsylvania boating guides:
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