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Does a jon boat have to be registered in Indiana?

Author

Christopher Duran

Updated on March 01, 2026

Does a jon boat have to be registered in Indiana?

An Indiana certificate of registration is required to operate a vessel legally on public waters unless the vessel is nonmotorized (vessels using an electric trolling motor require registration).

Similarly, do I need to register my kayak in Indiana?

No, you do not need to register a kayak or canoe in Indiana. However, if you have modified your vessel to include an electric trolling motor then you will have to register it.

Similarly, do you have to register a boat in Indiana? All motorboats used on Indiana waterways must be registered and display valid watercraft decals to operate in the state unless otherwise exempt. When registering your watercraft for the first time you will pay the applicable registration fee, a Lake and River Enhancement Fee, and excise tax.

Also Know, do you have to register a boat on a private lake in Indiana?

All watercraft operating on Indiana waterways must be registered with the BMV and display valid watercraft decals unless otherwise exempt.

How do I register a homemade boat in Indiana?

Before you can register your homemade boat, you must first apply for a Hull Identification Number with the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Indiana boat registrations must be renewed every year. You will receive a reminder by mail approximately 30 days before your deadline.

Do you have to register a boat with a trolling motor in Indiana?

All motorized boats and PWC (personal watercraft, including boats with only an electric trolling motor) require registration. You will receive a certificate of registration that must be on the vessel during operation. A replacement application for any lost or stolen certificates is available with a processing fee.

Can you register a boat without a title?

To get a title for a boat without a title you will need to contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles. Each state has different legislation regarding boat titles, so you could also need a bill of sale from the boat owner you are buying from, in order to prove ownership of the vessel.

What is required on a boat in Indiana?

Boats 16 ft. in length (except a canoe or kayak) or longer must have one Type IV U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD onboard and readily accessible. Each person on a PWC must wear an approved PFD. All persons being towed behind a boat or PWC on water skis or any other device must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD.

Do you need a title for a boat trailer in Indiana?

Indiana issues registrations and titles for all non-exempt boats operating in their jurisdiction. Boat trailers must be registered in this state. Boat titling is required on boat trailers weighing over 3,100 lbs. State sales tax applies to boat transactions.

Is it illegal to kayak without a life jacket?

You must always wear a lifejacket in a canoe or kayak when alone in your vessel.

Do you have to register a jon boat?

Registration requirements vary from State to State though a common theme is that motorized Jon boats require registration (and sometimes titling) whereas non-motorized Jon boats do not require registration or titling. So if you have a trolling motor fitted to your Jon boat chances are you need to register the boat.

Do boats have titles in Indiana?

Watercraft Titles

Indiana residents are required to obtain an Indiana certificate of title for all watercraft (unless specifically exempt from registration). You must apply for a certificate of title within 45 days after the date of purchase or an administrative penalty will be charged.

How much is it to register a boat in the state of Indiana?

Watercraft Fees & Taxes
Fee Based on Excise Class
$0-99Class 1 to 2$5.00
$1000-2999Class 3 to 5$10.00
$3000-4999Class 6$15.00
$5000-9999Class 7 to 8$20.00

How much is sales tax on a boat in Indiana?

Watercraft purchased outside Indiana and brought into Indiana to be registered or titled are subject to Indiana use tax. The use tax rate is identical to the Indiana sales tax rate (7%). The tax is to be collected upon registration and/or titling at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

Do kayaks need to be registered?

Any watercraft designed for recreational use and transportation, equipped with a gas, diesel, or electric motor – including trolling motors – should be registered in its state of principal use. However, some states also require unpowered watercraft, such as kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards, to be registered.

Do kayaks need to be registered in Kentucky?

Kayaks, canoes and paddle boards that are manually propelled are exempted from registration. Do you have to register a kayak with a trolling motor in Kentucky? The quick answer is yes. All motorized vessels, regardless of size, are required to have a Kentucky registration certificate on board.

Do you have to register a jon boat in Kentucky?

All boats operated in Kentucky must have the registration certificate on board. Boats that are rented from a marina or boat livery must have a lease agreement on board. Once boats are assigned a registration number and decals, they must be displayed correctly.

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Does a jon boat have to be registered in Indiana?