How Much Does It Cost to Register a Boat in Maryland?
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.
Cost by boat size
| Boat | Per year | One-time (title etc.) |
|---|---|---|
| 14-ft motorboat | $35.00 | $20.00 |
| 20-ft motorboat | $35.00 | $20.00 |
| 28-ft motorboat | $35.00 | $20.00 |
| Kayak/canoe (no motor) | Free — exempt from registration | |
- 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).
Estimate your exact Maryland cost
Your boat
Registration due now
$70.00
Covers 2 years — averages $35.00 per year.
Each renewal (2 years)
- Registration fee$70 per 2-year cycle$70.00
One-time fees (first registration)
- Title fee$20.00
One-time total: $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.
All figures computed from official fee schedules — sources: https://mva.maryland.gov/title-registration/fees-payment-options — last reviewed 2026-07-16.