How Much Does It Cost to Register a Boat in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, boat registration is handled by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission and renews annually. The fee is based on boat length — from $34 for the smallest class up to $54 for the largest per year. 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 | $34.00 | $36.00 |
| 20-ft motorboat | $34.00 | $36.00 |
| 28-ft motorboat | $54.00 | $36.00 |
| Kayak/canoe (no motor) | Free — exempt from registration | |
- 1-year renewal shown; 3-year terms are $94 (under 26 ft) / $154 (26 ft+).
- New registrations that include titling run $71–$91 for one year. Vessels 14 ft+ and PWCs must be titled.
Estimate your exact North Carolina cost
Your boat
- Registration fee (by length)$34.00
- Title fee$36.00
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://www.ncdot.gov/dmv/downloads/Documents/MVR-94.pdf — last reviewed 2026-07-16.