Maryland Boat Registration Fee Calculator
In Maryland, boat registration is handled by the Maryland DNR and renews every 2 years. The fee is a flat $70 per cycle. Non-motorized craft like kayaks and canoes are generally exempt (check local rules for sailboats). Boats with motors — including trolling motors on otherwise unpowered craft — almost always require registration.
Your boat
- Registration fee$70 per 2-year cycle$70.00
- Title fee$20.00
Estimate only — actual fees are set by your state and county at the time of registration. Data last reviewed 2026-07-16. This state's full local formula is not yet implemented; see the notes below the calculator.
Good to know
- Registration nearly tripled to $70 per 2 years and the title rose to $20 in October 2025.
- 5% vessel excise tax at purchase (capped at $16,100 from July 2026). Non-motorized craft may register voluntarily ($12/2yr decal).
What determines boat registration cost in Maryland?
- Flat fee regardless of size
- Motorized vs. non-motorized
- 2-year registration cycle
- New registration vs. renewal (title/transfer fees apply once)
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to register a kayak or canoe in Maryland?
Generally no — unpowered craft are exempt in Maryland. But the moment you mount any motor, including an electric trolling motor, registration is required.
How often do I renew a boat registration in Maryland?
Every 2 years — the fee shown covers the full 2-year period.
More Maryland calculators
Boat Registration calculators for other states
Sources: https://dnr.maryland.gov/boating/pages/registration.aspx — data last reviewed 2026-07-16.