Arkansas Boat Registration
DFA registration, fees, and insurance rules — plus every AR guide in one place.
Any motorized or sail-powered vessel operated on Arkansas public waters must be registered through the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA). You apply at a state revenue office within 30 days of purchase, and registration is valid for three years.
What you need to register
Bring the following to a state revenue office:
- HIN verification — a legible pencil rubbing or printed photograph of the Hull Identification Number (required since January 1, 2017).
- Proof of ownership — a bill of sale from the last registered owner, or a Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO) for a new boat.
- County assessor documentation — proof the boat was assessed for the current tax year.
- Personal property tax receipt — proof that taxes due by October 10 have been paid.
- Liability insurance (if applicable) — required for all PWC and motorboats over 50 HP, at least $50,000 per occurrence from an Arkansas-authorized insurer.
Fee snapshot
| Vessel length | 3-year fee |
|---|---|
| Less than 16 feet | $7.50 |
| 16 to less than 26 feet | $15.00 |
| 26 to less than 40 feet | $51.00 |
| 40 feet and over | $105.00 |
A replacement registration costs $1. Arkansas charges no sales tax on casual (individual-to-individual) boat sales; dealer purchases are taxed at the revenue office. Full details in how to register a boat in Arkansas.
Get Your Arkansas Paperwork Right
BoatForms builds your Arkansas registration packet — the right documents, the fee for your vessel, and your checklist. Free to use.
Start My AR PacketAll Arkansas guides 3
Arkansas Boating Laws: AGFC Rules Every Boater Should Know in 2026
AGFC boating laws in Arkansas for 2026, including operator age requirements, boater education, life jackets, BUI penalties, PWC rules, no-wake zones, and required safety equipment.
Read moreArkansas Boat Insurance in 2026: Requirements, Penalties, and Coverage Options
Arkansas is one of only two states that require boat insurance by law. This guide covers who needs it, minimum coverage amounts, penalties for noncompliance, and optional coverage types.
Read moreHow to Register a Boat in Arkansas in 2026
Who must register, required documents, fees, display rules, and how to renew your boat registration in Arkansas through the DFA.
Read moreFrequently asked questions
Who must register a boat in Arkansas?
Any vessel propelled by a motor (including a trolling motor) or sail on Arkansas public waters must be registered through the Arkansas DFA. Non-motorized paddle craft, boats registered in another state and present 90 or fewer consecutive days, and USCG-documented vessels are exempt.
How much does it cost to register a boat in Arkansas?
Registration is valid for 3 years and priced by length: less than 16 feet is $7.50, 16 to under 26 feet is $15, 26 to under 40 feet is $51, and 40 feet and over is $105. A replacement registration costs $1.
Do I need insurance to register a boat in Arkansas?
Liability insurance is required for all personal watercraft and motorboats exceeding 50 horsepower — at least $50,000 of liability coverage per occurrence from an Arkansas-authorized insurer. You submit proof with your registration and at renewal.
How long do I have to register a boat in Arkansas?
You must apply for registration within 30 days of the date of purchase, at a state revenue office.