Intro: Why Montana? Why Now?
Montana isn’t just known for Big Sky Country and epic trout fishing—it’s also one of the most boat-registration-friendly states in the country. Thanks to no sales tax, permanent registration, and LLC-friendly laws, registering your boat in Montana is more than just legal red tape—it’s a savvy financial move.
So, whether you just scored a jet boat, a wake surf machine, or a luxury yacht, here’s exactly how to register your boat in Montana without making rookie mistakes.
Step 1: Know What Boats Need to Be Registered in Montana
Not every boat needs to be registered in the Treasure State. Here’s the quick breakdown:
Must be registered and titled:
- All motorboats
- Personal watercraft (Jet Skis, Sea-Doos, etc.)
- Sailboats 12 feet and longer
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized sailboats under 12 feet
- Canoes, kayaks, and other manually propelled boats
Pro Tip: Even if your boat is exempt from registration, you still may need safety gear and inspection in certain situations. Always check with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) before heading out on the water.
Step 2: Gather Your Boat Paperwork
Before you take your boat to the county office—or file through an LLC—here’s what you’ll need to bring:
- Proof of ownership: title or bill of sale
- Boat details: make, model, year, Hull Identification Number (HIN)
What if you built your own boat?
If your boat is homemade or was built before 1972 (pre-HIN days), you’ll need to apply for a HIN from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and schedule an inspection with a peace officer.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application for Boat Registration
You’ll need to complete Montana’s official Application for Boat Registration, which is handled at your local County Treasurer’s Office.
- Montana residents register in the county where they live.
- Montana LLCs register in the county where the business is based.
Step 4: Pay for Permanent Boat Registration
Here’s one of the biggest perks: Montana boat registration is permanent. That means no annual renewals, no ongoing fees, and no personal property taxes on your boat.
Translation: Pay once and you’re done for good. That’s why Montana boat registration is a favorite among out-of-state owners looking to avoid yearly state fees elsewhere.
The actual cost varies based on your boat’s size, but it’s a one-time payment. No surprises later.
Step 5: Apply Your Decal Correctly
After you register, the County Treasurer’s Office will give you a permanent registration decal. Be sure to apply it to the left forward half of your boat, three inches behind the identifying numbers.
This decal is your proof of legal registration—and in Montana, it doesn’t expire.
Bonus: Out-of-State Boat? Here’s What You Need to Know
If your boat is registered in another state, you can still bring it to Montana—but only for up to 90 consecutive days. After that, you’re expected to register it locally.
Many savvy boat owners don’t wait 90 days—they set up a Montana LLC and register the boat there from the start. Why? Because the savings on sales tax and ongoing costs can be massive, especially for high-value watercraft.
Why So Many Boat Owners Use a Montana LLC
Registering a boat through a Montana LLC isn’t just legal—it’s one of the most efficient ways to cut costs, increase privacy, and protect your investment.
Here’s why:
- No sales tax
- No annual registration
- Increased privacy
- Legally recognized nationwide
The key is working with a professional who understands Montana law. Setting up an LLC the wrong way can lead to red flags and legal headaches down the road. (That’s where we come in.)
Smooth Sailing Starts in Montana
Registering a boat in Montana is simple, straightforward, and comes with some serious perks. Whether you’re a resident or an out-of-state owner using an LLC, the process is easier than most states—and way more affordable over time.
Just remember:
- Title it
- Register it
- Apply your decal
- Then go enjoy the water—Montana style.
Start Your Montana Boat Registration Today
Skip the paperwork and confusion — let Dirt Legal handle your registration from start to finish.
