Rhode Island is a beautiful state that is surrounded by water, making it an excellent location for boating enthusiasts. If you're planning on owning a boat in Rhode Island, it's essential to know the process of registering your vessel with the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM).

Boat registration in Rhode Island is mandatory for any motorized vessel operated on state waters, including boats, yachts, and personal watercraft. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to register a boat in Rhode Island:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before registering your boat in Rhode Island, you will need to gather the necessary documents. These documents include:

·        Proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale, title, or registration from the previous owner

·        Title properly assigned to you, or if no title exists, a completed Application for Vessel Registration and Certificate of Title, available from the DEM’s website here.

·        A Completed Boat Registration Application, available from the DEM’s website here.

·        If the boat has an outboard motor, a completed Outboard Motor Registration Application, available from the DEM’s website here.

·        Proof of Rhode Island sales or use tax payment

·        A valid form of identification, such as a driver's license or passport

Step 2: Complete the Application

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, the next step is to complete all necessary application forms, including title application, registration application, and outboard motor registration. These forms are available online on the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management's (DEM) website. You can also obtain a copy of the form at any of the DEM's regional offices.

When completing the application, you will need to provide information such as the vessel's make, model, and year, as well as its hull identification number (HIN). You will also need to select a preferred vessel name and provide information about the vessel's primary use.

Step 3: Pay the Required Fees

Once you have completed the application, you will need to pay the required fees. The fee for registering a vessel in Rhode Island varies depending on the length of the vessel. The registration fee is paid biannually and may be paid using check or money order made payable to “State of Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management.” The fee schedule is below.

Step 4: Submit the Application

After completing the application and paying the required fees, you can submit your application to the DEM. You can submit the application in person at any of the DEM's regional offices or by mail to the address below.

Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management

Office of Boat Registration (Room 360)

235 Promenade St,

Providence, RI

02908

Once your application has been processed, you will receive your vessel registration and certificate of number. The vessel registration must be displayed on the vessel at all times while it is being operated on state waters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, registering a boat in Rhode Island is a straightforward process that requires you to gather the necessary documents, complete an application, pay the required fees, and submit the application to the DEM. By following these steps, you can ensure that your boat is registered and legal to operate on Rhode Island's beautiful waters.