Boat Registration in PA
- tunlar
- Mar 21
- 4 min read
Owning a boat, or personal watercraft in Pennsylvania offers a great way to enjoy the state’s beautiful lakes and rivers. Before you take your boat out on the water, you must understand the registration process required by Pennsylvania law. Registering your boat ensures you comply with state regulations, avoid fines, and protect your investment.
Who Needs to Register a Boat in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, most motorized boats must be registered with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC). This includes boats equipped with a motor, whether it is gas-powered or electric. For questions, call TUNLAR AGENCY 570-226-0550.
If your boat has no motor and is powered only by paddles or oars, registration is not required. Unpowered, or non-motorized watercraft like rowboats, kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and inflatable craft that are not registered, are required to have a Boat Launch Permit for PFBC or State Park/Forest boating access.
Key points:
Registration is mandatory for boats with motors
Non-motorized boats do not require registration
A Boat Launch Permit may be required for non-motorized watercraft
Boats used on Pennsylvania waterways must comply with state laws
How to Register Your Boat in PA
Gather Required Documents
Proof of ownership (valid boat title, manufacturer’s certificate of origin - if the original purchaser or transfer through a dealer, or a previous, original transferrable registration card)
Valid photo ID
Bill of sale/proof of purchase
Payment for registration fees
Color photos of all sides and the HULL ID plate, if required
Complete the Application, in person
Visit TUNLAR AGENCY, a PFBC Authorized Agent
1319 PURDYTOWN TPKE, STE 5, HAWLEY PA 18428
CALL: 570-226-0550
You'll receive a temporary registration valid for 60 days
Receive Your Title, and/or Registration and Decals by Mail
complete the setup for your online Hunt/Fish PA account
Keep the registration certificate on board at all times
Display the registration decals on both sides of the bow
Fees and Duration
Expect to pay the following fees:
Title
Registration
Sales Tax
Lien Recording, if boat is financed
Agent fee for processing, notary, clerical fees
Pennsylvania charges registration fees based on the length of your pontoon boat. The fees cover a two-year registration period.
Renewing Your Boat Registration
Boat registrations in Pennsylvania last for two years. The PFBC sends a renewal notice before your registration expires. You can renew online, by mail, or in person.
Submit the renewal application with payment, update any changes in ownership or boat details, receive new decals to replace the old ones.
Renewing on time avoids late fees and ensures your boat remains legal on the water.
Special Cases and Additional Requirements
Out-of-State Boats
If you bring a boat registered in another state to Pennsylvania, you must register it with the PFBC if you plan to use it on PA waters for more than 30 days.
Transfer of Ownership
When you sell or buy a boat, the new owner must title and register the boat in their name. Pennsylvania Titles require the Seller's Signature to be notarized and the purchaser's full name and address will be required for the notary section to be completed. Signature must be done in the presence of a Notary Public.
The seller should provide a bill of sale to the buyer.
BOAT INSURANCE in Pennsylvania
Boat Insurance in Pennsylvania is not mandatory, but is highly recommended. Some privately owned lakes and community associations may require proof of boat insurance. Boat storage facilities, and marinas, may also require proof of boat insurance.
Boat Insurance is a valuable component in protecting your family against lawsuits from incidents that may occur, protecting your watercraft against physical damage claims, and protecting your assets.
Boat Insurance is affordable protection, provides a range of coverage limits for liability, medical payments, uninsured boater liability, physical damage valuation, and deductible options. Even if you purchase liability coverage only, you've made a wise decision in protecting yourself, and others.
Tunlar Agency provides boat insurance quotes for all types of watercraft, from pontoon, deck, and cruiser boats, to bass fishing setups, and watersport activities, including personal watercraft, like seadoo, yamaha, and polaris brands.
Need Boat Insurance now? We provide INSTANT INSURANCE
Quote, pay, bind, done! With Electronic Signature option, your email, and the payment, you'll be out on LAKE WALLENPAUPACK in no time!
CALL NOW: 570-390-7622 for INSTANT BOAT INSURANCE
Safety and Compliance Beyond Registration
Keep Registration documents onboard
Carry a valid boating safety certificate, if required
Follow all boating regulations and speed limits
Wear life jackets and have safety equipment on board
Check local regulations for specific lakes or rivers
These steps help protect you and others while enjoying your boat, or personal watercraft.
Common Questions About Boat Registration in PA
Do I need to register a boat with a trolling motor?
Yes, if your boat has any motor, including a trolling motor, it must be registered.
How long does it take to get registration after applying?
Online applications are usually processed within a few days. New applications, and renewal by mail will take longer.
Can I register my boat if I live out of state?
Yes, but you must register it in Pennsylvania if you use it on PA waters for more than 30 days.
What happens if I don’t register my boat?
You may face fines, penalties, and your boat could be impounded.
How do I transfer ownership of a boat when the owner is deceased?
The authorized person handling the estate will need to contact our office for assistance with transfer of ownership. Original documents such as the Title, valid ID, and original Death Certificate or Short Certificate will be required. Additional PFBC forms may be required. CALL TUNLAR AGENCY: 570-226-0550
INSURE • REGISTER • RIDE
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