For motorized boats, complete a Boat Registration/Boat and Motor Title Application (PDF) and submit it, along with original documentation demonstrating boat ownership (for both new and used boats), any other documents required for the special cases listed below, and a check, cashier’s check, or money order for applicable fees.

For non-motorized houseboats, you must also complete and submit an Affidavit of Ownership of a Non-Motorized Houseboat (which can be found on the LDWF licensing forms website) and pictures of the houseboat.

Apply either in person at LDWF Headquarters at 2000 Quail Drive in Baton Rouge during normal business hours, 8 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday, or by mail to:
LDWF
Attn: Boat Registration/Boat and Motor Title Application
PO Box 14796
Baton Rouge, LA 70898.

• If you purchased your boat new from a dealer, you must submit:
  • Original Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO)
  • Copy of dealer invoice 
  • Proof of Louisiana state and local taxes paid on the invoice OR a completed original Tax Payment Certification Form (R-1331) (PDF) from the Louisiana Department of Revenue
• If you purchased your boat used and do not have a complete chain of ownership from the last registered owner of the boat, you may be required to obtain a court order to register your boat. Please call 225.765.2898 for more information.
  • Affidavit/Court Order Recognizing Ownership of Boat (PDF)
• If you purchased your boat from an individual who previously registered/titled the boat in another state, you must submit:
  • Title and registration 
  • Bill of Sale of Boat/Motor (PDF)
• If you acquired your boat from a dealer in another state and it was previously titled or registered, you must submit:
  • Invoice from the dealer or a Bill of Sale of Boat/Motor (PDF)
  • Title and/or registration 
  • Proof of ownership from the titled/registered owner to the dealer
• If you’re registering your out-of-state boat for the first time in Louisiana, you may be required to submit a completed Tax Payment Certification Form (R-1331) (PDF) from the Louisiana Department of Revenue. Call 225.765.2898 for more information.
• If your boat does not have a Hull Identification Number (homemade boats) or has an incorrect Hull Identification Number and you’re applying for registration for the first time, your boat must be inspected by LDWF and must be titled in addition to being registered. You must submit an Application for a Boat Inspection (application can be found at the LDWF Licensing Form page) along with your completed registration application and provide receipts for building materials indicating taxes paid (for homemade boats) at the time of inspection. LDWF will send you a letter with information to call and make an appointment for your inspection. 
• You must register all U.S. Coast Guard documented boats used recreationally in Louisiana waters. Your application must include a completed original Tax Payment Certification Form (R-1331) (PDF) from the Louisiana Department of Revenue and a copy of your U.S. Coast Guard documentation (in the applicant’s name).

Once we receive and process your application, required documents, and payment, we will issue you a registration certificate, which states the number assigned to your boat, and two decals. You must keep your registration certificate onboard the vessel at all times. We suggest keeping it in a waterproof container in a safe but easily accessible place. You must paint or attach the number to your boat and attach the decals, both according to LDWF requirements.

If you have not received your registration certificate and decals within 45 days of applying, please call (225)765-2898.