Maine is known for its rugged coastline, pristine lakes, and picturesque rivers, making it a popular destination for boating enthusiasts. If you own a boat in Maine, registering it is an important step to ensure that you can operate it legally and safely. In this blog post, we'll outline the steps you need to take to register your boat in Maine.

Step 1: Determine if your boat needs to be registered.

In Maine, all motorized boats must be registered with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW). Additionally, if your boat is over 14 feet in length, you will need to register it, regardless of whether or not it has a motor. If your boat is smaller than 14 feet and doesn't have a motor, you may still choose to register it, but it is not required.

Step 2: Gather the necessary information.

Before you begin the registration process, you'll need to gather some important information about your boat. This includes the boat's make, model, and year, as well as the length, hull material, engine type, and hull identification number (HIN). You can find this on the starboard-stern (back-right) corner of the hull. You'll also need to provide your contact information, including your name, address, and phone number.

Step 3: Complete the registration application.

To register your boat in Maine, you'll need to complete a registration application. This can be done at the central MDIFW office in Augusta, or at your local municipal tax collector or town clerk’s office. The application will ask for the information you gathered in step 2, as well as any necessary fees.

Step 4: Provide proof of ownership.

To prove that you are the rightful owner of the boat you're registering, you'll need to provide some form of documentation. This could include the boat's title, a bill of sale, or a notarized statement of ownership. If the boat has previously been registered in another state, you'll need to provide proof of registration in the previous state it was registered.

Step 5: Pay the registration fees.

The cost of registering a boat in Maine varies depending on the horsepower and type of the boat. These fees may be paid by credit or debit card, or by check or money order made payable to Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. In addition to the registration fee, there is also an obligatory $15 fee for the “Lake and River Protection” sticker. The registration fee schedule, including the “Lake and River Protection” sticker is below.

Step 6: Display your registration numbers and decals.

Once you've completed the registration process, you'll receive a set of registration numbers that must be displayed on your boat. The numbers should be at least 3 inches tall and in a contrasting color to the boat's hull. They should be displayed on both sides of the bow of the boat, and should be visible from at least 100 feet away. The “Lake and River Protection” sticker should be placed in line with the registration numbers and decals, at least 3 inches behind the registration. No boat, whether registered in Maine or elsewhere, may operate on any inland body of water in Maine without the “Lake and River Protection” sticker permanently affixed to the hull.

Conclusion

In conclusion, registering your boat in Maine is a relatively simple process that can be completed online or in person. By following these steps, you can ensure that you are legally allowed to operate your boat on Maine waters, and that you're doing your part to keep our waterways safe and protected.