Boat Registration and Licenses

What to Register

• Sail-powered boats used on the state's public waters.

• Motor-powered boats used on the state's public waters.

What Not to Register

• Canoes.

• Kayaks.

Exemptions

• Boats currently registered in another state that will be used on the state's waterways for up to 60 days.

Requirements and Procedures

While you may use your newly purchased boat for 30 days without registering it, be aware that processing your application can take up to six weeks. You may register your boat in person, by mail, or by fax. Here's how:

In Person

1. Complete the registration form.
2. Garner the registration fee.
3. Take the paperwork to a State Park office, along with your payment.

By Mail

Send a completed registration form and your fee payment to:

• Colorado State Parks

• Registration Unit

• 13787 S. Highway 85

• Littleton, CO 80125

By Fax

Fax your completed registration form and credit card payment information to (303) 470-0782.

Additional Information

You will be assigned a Colorado Registration Number. Paint or attach the number in, at least, 3 inch block letters to each side of the bow of your boat. Make sure the color of the number contrasts to the color of your vessel for easy visibility.

Fees

Your fee is determined by the length of your boat, as follows:

• Less than 20': $25.25

• 20' to 29' 11": $30.25

• 30' and longer: $50.25

Renewals and Replacements

Registrations expire on December 31 of each year, regardless of when you obtained the registration. Renewal forms are mailed in November.

Renew by Mail

Send the renewal form and your fee payment in the enclosed envelope.

Renew Online

1. Go to the online renewal page.
2. Enter your vessel's information.
3. Pay your fee with your Visa or MasterCard credit card.
4. Print your temporary receipt.

The state offers a FAQs section for online renewals.

Replace Lost Registration

Receive a duplicate registration by calling the registration unit at (303) 791-1920. Replacement registrations cost $5.

You can also pick up a replacement for $5 at:

• Colorado State Parks

• Registration Unit

• 13787 S. Highway 85

• Littleton, CO 80125

Boater License

You must be at least 14 years old to operate a boat in Colorado. In addition, if you're 14 or 15 years old, you must complete a safety course (see below for details) and receive a boating license.

Boater Education

Course providers, such as BoaterExam.com allow you to complete the course and take the test online.

Or, you can fulfill the state's licensing requirements by studying the "Boating Safely in Colorado" manual and scoring at least 70% on the exam. Obtain the manual by calling (303) 791-1954, or write to boating.safety@state.co.us with your name, mailing address, date of birth, and the number of manuals requested. There will be a $15 certification fee. The state's Web site provides additional information on the course.