Arizona Boat Registration Guide | Fees, Process & Title Transfer

Arizona Boat Registration Guide 2026 | Fees, Titles & How-To

Arizona Boat Registration: Arizona requires all motorized boats and sailboats over 12 feet to be titled and registered with the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD). Registration fees start at $20/year for vessels under 16 ft. This guide covers every step — new registrations, transfers, out-of-state conversions, and Lake Havasu-specific requirements — so you can get on the water without paperwork surprises.
$20
Base fee, boats under 16 ft
$35
Base fee, 16–26 ft
$50
Base fee, over 26 ft
3 yr
Option saves money

Step-by-Step: How to Register a Boat in Arizona

  1. Get your title in order. New boats require the Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO). Used boats require a signed title from the previous owner. Out-of-state boats need the out-of-state title surrendered to MVD for an Arizona title conversion first.
  2. Complete an AZGFD registration application. Available at azgfd.com, any AZGFD license dealer (bait shops, marinas, sporting goods stores), or AZGFD regional offices.
  3. Pay registration fees. Fees are based on length (see table below). Credit cards accepted online; cash or check at dealers.
  4. Receive your AZ number and decals. Online processing: 5–10 business days by mail. In-person: same-day in most cases. Decals must be affixed to both sides of the bow within 3 inches of the registration number.
  5. Display numbers correctly. AZ registration numbers must be printed on both sides of the bow in block letters at least 3 inches tall, in a color contrasting the hull.

Arizona Boat Registration Fees (2026)

Vessel Length 1-Year Fee 3-Year Fee Notes
Under 16 ft $20 $54 +$4 watercraft education fee
16 ft to under 26 ft $35 $94.50 Most pontoons, ski boats
26 ft and over $50 $135 Cruisers, large tri-toons
Non-motorized (canoe, kayak, paddleboard) $20 $54 Required if used on public waters

Fees current as of 2026. Verify at azgfd.com before paying — fees are subject to legislative change.

Lake Havasu-Specific Registration Notes

Lake Havasu City sits on the California–Arizona border. The lake itself is entirely within Arizona, but the Colorado River below Davis Dam borders both states. Here’s what that means for registration:

  • Lake Havasu: Arizona registration required. California registration not valid without Arizona reciprocity.
  • Parker Strip (below Headgate Dam): Arizona registration accepted on both sides of the river. California registration valid on California-side access points.
  • Mohave County waters: All Lake Havasu waters are Mohave County jurisdiction. Arizona Game and Fish and Mohave County Sheriff patrol jointly.
  • California boats in Havasu: A California-registered boat may operate on Arizona waters for up to 60 consecutive days before Arizona registration is required.

Titling a Boat in Arizona — MVD Process

Titling is separate from registration. The Arizona MVD (Motor Vehicle Division) issues titles; AZGFD issues registration. Both are required for motorized vessels over 12 ft.

  • New boat (with MCO): Dealer typically handles the title application. Verify before you leave the lot.
  • Private purchase: Both buyer and seller sign the back of the title. Buyer submits to MVD within 15 days with title fee ($4) and sales tax (5.6% of purchase price in Mohave County).
  • Out-of-state boat: Surrender out-of-state title to MVD, pay Arizona title fee, and wait for AZ title before registering with AZGFD.
  • Boat with lien: Lender must release the title. If buying from an out-of-state owner with a lien, get a payoff letter and verify lien release before completing purchase.

Bought a Boat? We Handle the Paperwork.

When you purchase through The Boat Brokers, we walk you through the title transfer and registration process. No guessing, no MVD surprises.

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Frequently Asked Questions — Arizona Boat Registration

Do I need a boating license in Arizona?

Arizona does not require a boating license for adults. However, boaters born on or after January 1, 1996 must complete an approved boating safety course and carry proof of completion. The AZGFD-approved online course is available at boat-ed.com and takes approximately 5–8 hours. The certificate is valid for life.

Can I use my boat while waiting for Arizona registration?

Yes, with a temporary operating permit (TOP). AZGFD license dealers can issue a 60-day TOP that allows legal operation while your registration processes. Dealers who sell boats can also issue a 30-day temporary registration at the point of sale. Keep the TOP visible and available for inspection on the water.

What happens if I operate an unregistered boat in Arizona?

Operating an unregistered vessel on Arizona public waters is a class 2 misdemeanor. Fines start at $750 and can reach $2,500 plus court costs. AZGFD officers and Mohave County Sheriff deputies actively patrol Lake Havasu and issue citations — this is enforced, not theoretical.

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