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CDL HOLDERS:  As of June 16, 2025, DMV will no longer accept a paper medical certificate.  Your certificate will be sent electronically to DMV.  Learn more here

SMISHING SCAM ALERT: We have been informed that some residents are receiving fraudulent text messages and phone calls. Please be advised that the CT DMV does NOT contact residents regarding motor vehicle related violations.

WALK-IN SERVICES: Walk-in services are offered at all our office locations, except for Cheshire, Putnam, and Stamford. However, please note that walk-in availability is strictly limited and depends on our current capacity. To avoid waiting, we strongly recommend booking an appointment. We’ll do our best to fit you in, but walk-ins aren’t guaranteed. Service options also differ by location.  Click here to learn more. 

Register your new vehicle or vessel

Learn how to register your vehicle or vessel with the DMV and what registration type you need

Register your new vehicle or vessel

Learn how to register your vehicle or vessel with the DMV and what registration type you need

Registration overview

Registration process & requirements

Registering your new vehicle or vessel (i.e., boat) is easy, but it can only be done by appointment at a DMV hub or branch office, or a participating dealership.

Remember to bring all required documents and identification to your appointment, along with an acceptable form of payment.

IMPORTANT
Before you schedule an appointment, check to make sure there are no outstanding compliance issues on your vehicle that could prevent you from registering:

Registration fees

  • Passport to the Parks: Learn more about the $15 Passport to the Parks fee that’s included in all non-commercial vehicles with new registrations, renewals, or plate transfers. This minimal fee allows residents with Connecticut plates on their vehicles to park for free at all state parks and beaches, while also funding public programs across the park system—from improved park maintenance to more lifeguards on duty.  Effective July 1, 2025, the Passport to the Parks fee will be $24.
  • Fee overview: Fees for specific registration and usage types can be found below within each vehicle and usage type category, or you can review a chart of all registration-related fees.

Additional registration information

Check registration status to verify if your vehicle is already registered with a plate. (You will need your vehicle class and license plate number.)

Select vehicle type


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  • All-terrain vehicle (ATV)

All-terrain vehicle (ATV)

All-terrain vehicle registration

Connecticut law requires all all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) operated in the state to register with the DMV, unless the vehicle is ONLY being driven on property owned or leased by the ATV’s owner. Learn more about opportunities to use ATVs and other off-road vehicles on Connecticut state property via the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection website.

 

Operating your ATV

A registered ATV can’t drive on a public highway unless it’s being driven by a licensed driver and only crossing a public highway—other than limited-access highway. The ATV may cross a public highway at a 90-degree angle, after the ATV is brought to a complete stop. The driver is required to yield to motor vehicles using the highway and must cross in the direction of the highway at a location where no obstruction prevents a quick and safe crossing.

 

Register your ATV 

ATVs can only be registered in-person at a DMV hub or branch office.

 

Please follow the steps below to register your ATV:

Step 1: Check for any compliance issues with your ATV

Before you can register your ATV, you may need to resolve any outstanding compliance issues such as unpaid taxes, outdated emissions testing, or other issues. 

Step 2: Gather required documents

  • An acceptable form of identification, such as a driver’s license or U.S. passport, is required for each person listed as an owner of the ATV.

    • Note: See rules that apply to ATVs registered in the name of a business, leased ATVs, and people who do not have an acceptable form of ID. 

  • Connecticut registration and title application (Form H-13B) completed by the ATV owner.

    • Note: ATVs are not titled in Connecticut.

  • Proof of ownership, such as the previous ATV owner's registration or the manufacturer's Certificate of Origin, is required to register your ATV. Learn more about proof of ownership documents.  

  • Note: ATVs from other states or countries can have different requirements. See below for out-of-state registered ATVs.

  • A Bill of Sale (Form H-31) for the ATV, either from a dealership or from an individual seller. 

Step 3: Prepare to pay fees

Registering your ATV will require you to pay a registration fee, as well as sales tax on registration. Please see acceptable forms of payment.

Step 4: Make an appointment

Once you’ve gathered everything you need to register your ATV, make an in-person appointment at a DMV hub or branch office:

 

Make an appointment

 

Note: If the ATV is being registered to a minor (age 16 or 17), parental consent and special financial responsibility insurance are also required; ATVs can’t be registered to owners less than age 16.

 

ATVs registered out of state

If your ATV is registered in a state outside of Connecticut, you are allowed to operate it here only if the outside state grants similar privileges to residents of Connecticut. Currently, only Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, and Florida grant similar privileges to Connecticut ATV operators and are therefore the only states where you can register your ATV and still operate it in Connecticut.

 

If you’re a resident of a state other than the ones above, you can register your ATV in Connecticut by presenting the following documents in person, by appointment, at a DMV hub or branch office:

  • Out-of-state registration for your ATV. 

  • An out-of-state driver’s license for each registrant, which must have the same name(s) as on the registration certificate. 

    • If a registrant is unable to appear in person, Power of Attorney (Form A-83) and photocopies of that person’s identification are acceptable. 

  • Application for snowmobile or all-terrain vehicle registration (Form H-13B), available at a DMV office, completed by the ATV owner. 

  • Note: ATVs can’t be registered if delinquent property tax or parking tickets are owed, or if the registrant has had their registration privileges suspended.

Registration plate & required number display

The registration plate of your ATV must be affixed to the rear of the vehicle. In addition, each ATV must display the registration number on each side of its front section, midway between the top and bottom of the front section, in letters/numbers at least three inches tall and made of reflective material. The vehicle registration needs to be carried on the ATV and be available for inspection whenever the ATV is driven.

Low-speed vehicle registration 

A Low-Speed vehicle (LSV) is a motor vehicle with no less than four wheels that has a speed attainable of at least 20 mph but no more than 25 mph on a paved, level surface and a GVWR of 3000lbs or less.

LSV’s may be operated on public roads if such roads have an established speed limit of no more than 25 mph. ATVs and golf carts do not qualify as a LSV as defined in 49 CFR 571.500. LSV may not be homemade or modified from original specifications to meet LSV requirements.

Please follow the steps below to register a low-speed vehicle:



Step 1: Check for any compliance issues with your low-speed vehicle

Before you can register your low-speed vehicle, you may need to resolve any outstanding compliance issues such as unpaid taxes, or other issues. 

Step 2: Gather required documents

  • An acceptable form of identification, such as a driver’s license or U.S. passport, is required for each person listed as an owner of the vehicle. 

  • Connecticut registration and title application (Form H-13B) completed by the owner. 

  • Proof of ownership. Learn more about proof of ownership documents.  

  • Connecticut proof of insurance is required to register your vehicle. You must buy insurance for your new low-speed vehicle. Once you get insurance, your insurance company will provide a Connecticut Insurance Identification Card for your new vehicle, which serves as proof of insurance.
  • A Bill of Sale (Form H-31) for the vehicle. 

Step 3: Prepare to pay fees

Registering your low-speed vehicle will require you to pay a registration fee, as well as sales tax on the purchase price of the vehicle. Please see acceptable forms of payment.

  • Registration fee: $175
  • Lien fee: $10 (if applicable)
  • Sales tax on registration: TBD (sales tax is determined by vehicle type, how you obtained the vehicle, and other factors - learn more about sales tax on registrations.)

Step 4: Make an appointment

Low-speed vehicles can only be registered in-person at a DMV hub or branch office. Once you’ve gathered everything you need to register your vehicle, make an in-person appointment at a DMV hub or branch office:

 

Make an appointment

 

 

 

Trailer

Truck

Van

Vessel

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  • Overview (general use)
  • Vessel registration fees
  • Vessel registration FAQs

Overview (general use)

Register your vessel
A water vessel, such as a boat or personal watercraft (e.g., jet ski) can only be registered in-person at a DMV hub or branch office.

Note: If you’re an out-of-state resident but using your boat or water vessel in Connecticut waters, please see section at the bottom for registration requirements.

Connecticut residents, please follow the steps below to register your vessel:

Step 1: Check for any compliance issues with your vessel
Before you can register, you may need to resolve any outstanding compliance issues such as unpaid taxes, outdated emissions testing, or other issues.

Step 2: Gather required documents

  • An acceptable form of identification, such as a driver’s license or U.S. passport, is required for each person listed as an owner of the vessel.
    • Note: See special rules that apply to vessels registered in the name of a business, leased vessels, and people who do not have an acceptable form of ID. 
  • Completed Connecticut vessel registration application (Form B-148). 
    • Federal law requires a hull number on all vessels manufactured in 1973 or later. The hull number must be included on the application. If the vessel has a "CT" number (previous Connecticut number), that will stay with the vessel and should be included on the application. 
  • Proof of ownership is required to register your vessel. Vessels with a model year of 2017 and newer are eligible for a title (see below for special notice to boat owners).  
    • If a vessel has a U.S. documented number or a foreign documented number, then that vessel is not eligible to obtain a Connecticut title and is considered a “documented vessel.” However, you can get a Connecticut vessel registration using your documented numbers. (Documentation from the U.S. Coast Guard is required to show that a vessel was documented, but is no longer documented.) 
  • For vessels with a model year of 2016 or older, you’ll need the registration from the last owner if other than the current owner. 
  • Vessels from other states or countries can have different requirements - learn more
  • A Bill of Sale (Form H-31) for the vessel. 
    • If the seller is not the last registered owner, each supplemental assignment of ownership (Form Q1-V) and/or Bill of Sale must be submitted for each ownership transfer back to the last registered owner. Form Q1-V is only available at a DMV office
    • The seller's signature on the vessel registration application (Form B-148) is optional if the seller has signed a Bill of Sale.  
    • If the vessel/boat was never registered, you’ll need a provide letter of explanation, as well as a completed vessel ownership affidavit (Form B-203). 
  • Review a comprehensive list of documents required for vessel registration and for a certificate of title.
  • Certificate of Parental Consent (Form 2D) is required if the vessel owner is a minor (age 14+).

Step 3: Prepare to pay fees

  • Vessel registration fee depends on the vessel’s hull material, the size of the vessel, and the organization or individual who owns the vessel.  
  • See acceptable forms of payment.
  • Sales tax on registration: TBD (sales tax is determined by vehicle or vessel type, how it was obtained, and other factors - learn more about sales tax on registrations.
    • Note: Vessels and trailers used for transporting a vessel purchased on or after July 1, 2018, will be charged a sales tax rate of 2.99 percent.
  • Vessels and trailers used for transporting a vessel with a purchase date before July 1, 2018, will be charged the current sales tax rate of 6.35 percent.
  • Title fee for vessels model year 2017 or newer: $25
  • Lien fee: $10 (if applicable)

Step 4: Make an appointment
Water vessels, such as boats, can only be registered in-person at a DMV hub or branch office. Once you’ve gathered everything you need to register your vessel, make an in-person appointment at a DMV hub or branch office:

Make an appointment


Special notice to boat owners: Requirements for registration & titling of boats
Effective January 1, 2016, Connecticut began titling boats and other water vessels starting with the model year 2017. Titling applies to every model year afterwards, unless the vessel is exempt. Download a list of vessels that are exempt from title requirements (on page 2).

Vessel registration for out-of-state residents
You don’t have to be a Connecticut resident to register your vessel here. See below for registration requirements and process.

Certificate of decal (not eligible for a Connecticut title)
If the vessel is being used in Connecticut waters for more than 60 days, you’ll need to apply for a certificate of decal (requires valid ownership identification). Application process is as follows:
  • If your vessel is documented: Provide a copy of the vessel document along with a completed vessel registration application (Form B-148). Vessel document must be current and issued in the name of the applicant.
  • If your vessel is registered out of state: Provide a current copy of the out-of-state registration along with a completed vessel registration application (Form B-148).

Identification requirements

  • If one party is named on the vessel registration application and cannot be present, then a notarized special Power of Attorney (Form A-83) is required, along with identification for the person listed on the form. Additionally, a copy of identification for all registrants listed on the application is required.
  • If two parties are named on the vessel registration application, either party may be present to process the registration. However, a copy of identification for any additional registrants listed on the application is required.

Make an appointment
Vessel registrations can only be completed at a DMV hub or branch office. Once you’ve gathered everything you need, make an in-person appointment:

Make an appointment

Vessel registration fees

Vessel registration fees are determined by the length of the vessel. 


Commercial fishing

  • Fee not to exceed $25 if vessel is used principally for purpose of commercial fishing, if 50 percent of the owner’s adjusted gross income in the preceding tax year was obtained from commercial fishing.
  • Computed fee based on the length of boat as usual and compare with $25. If computed fee is less than $25, charge computed fee. If computed fee is $25 or more, charge $25.

Non-profit organization

  • Registration for vessel owned by a non-profit organization: $7.50
    • Note: Sales tax exempt number must be noted on application for vessel registration renewal.

Flotilla

  • No registration fee for not more than two boats owned by any flotilla of the Coast Guard Auxiliary or non-profit corporation acting on behalf of such flotilla.

Vessel registration by a town

  • Connecticut towns are not required to register if name of town is clearly marked on the boat; however, if a registration is issued, a fee must be paid.

Vessel registration expiration date

  • Vessels registered as of January 1 will expire on April 30 of the following calendar year.

Cancelling vessel registration
To cancel your registration for a water vessel or boat, the owner needs to notify the DMV of cancellation within 15 days. Please provide notification in writing, including the vessel’s certificate of number or certificate of decal, and indicate if cancellation is due to:

  • Sale or transfer of ownership
  • Theft or loss
  • Destruction or abandonment of the boat

Change of address on vessel registration
The owner of a registered vessel needs to notify the DMV of a change of address within 15 days of change. Notice can be by completing a request for change of address (Form B-58).

 

Vessel registration FAQs

How do I register a documented vessel?
Documented vessels can only be registered in-person at a DMV hub or branch office. Visit a DMV Hub or Limited Service Office with the documents and fees listed below.

  • Submit a copy of the Coast Guard Final Documentation Paper.
  • Provide a Bill of Sale (form H-31).
  • Include the 12 digit hull number.
  • Complete Vessel Registration Application (form B-148). Download this form, fill out online and print. Please reference form B220.
  • Sales tax is due if not already paid.
  • The Registration Fee is determined by the length of the vessel.
  • Note: If the vessel is in the process of being documented, CT numbers will have to be assigned until the final documentation is received.

Does Connecticut title vessels?
Effective January 1, 2016, Connecticut will title vessels with the model year of 2017 and newer. For a list of vessels exempt from title requirements, please download this document.

What is the cost for a title?
If a vessel title is needed, the cost is $25 and $10 for the lien, as applicable.

Are personal watercraft, such as jet skis, required to be registered?
Personal watercraft, such as jet skis, are registered in the same manner as vessels - learn more.

Are there any special requirements needed for operating personal watercraft, such as a jet ski?
Personal watercraft, such as jet skis, are registered in the same manner as a vessel or boat—learn more. Additionally, you must have a Certificate of Personal Watercraft of Operation from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

Do I need to register a vessel or boat that’s less than 19.5 feet in length if it’s powered without the use of a motor (e.g., a sailboat powered by sail alone)?
No, vessels and boats not powered by any motor are exempt from registration.

Do I need to register a vessel or boat that’s less than 19.5 feet in length if it’s powered/propelled solely by oar or paddle?
No, those types of vessels and boats are exempt from registration—except for a canoe with a motor, which is charged a $7.50 registration fee.

My vessel has been registered with CT numbers and I now have my documentation paper. What do I do?
A Vessel Registration Application (form B-148) must be completed and submitted with the current registration certificate, including the CT numbers listed, and a copy of the document.
A fee of $3 will be charged if registered for the current year. Otherwise, the Registration Fee is determined by the length of the vessel.

I’m an out-of-state resident with a current out-of-state registration on my boat and will be using it on Connecticut waters. What do I need to do to use my water vessel here?
You have up to 60 days in a calendar year to use the vessel in Connecticut before you need to apply for a certificate of decal.

How do I get a copy of my last registration, bill of sale, proof of sales tax paid or a copy of an original application?
All inquiries are sent to the Marine Vessel Section (60 State Street, Wethersfield, CT 06161). Fees are as follows:

  • Copy of Application to Register - $20
  • Copy of a Bill of Sale - $20
  • File information - $20
  • Complete Search of Each Vessel - $20 plus $20 per copy
  • Certified Copies - additional $20

How do I request an "invitation to renew" for my vessel registration?
You may call the DMV’s call center or write to the DMV Marine Vessel Unit at the address below. You’ll need to provide your vessel number.

  • Mailing address:
    Department of Motor Vehicles
    Marine Vessel Section
    60 State Street
    Wethersfield, CT 06161

  • Call center:
    860-263-5700 (within the Hartford area or outside Connecticut)
    800-842-8222 (elsewhere in Connecticut)

I received an invitation to renew a registration on a vessel I no longer own. What should I do?
Please return the required portion of your renewal invitation to the DMV Marine Vessel Unit at the address below or change of address can be done online also. Include a note indicating the name of who you sold the vessel to, or, if you don’t know the name of the person you sold the vessel to, please indicate “person unknown.”

  • Mailing address:
    Department of Motor Vehicles
    Marine Vessel Section
    60 State Street
    Wethersfield, CT 06161

I’m selling my vessel and have purchased another. Can I get credit for the fee I paid on the previous vessel registration applied to the new registration?
You can get credit for the fee paid on the previous vessel if that vessel has been sold, traded, destroyed, or stolen prior to the time of registering the new vessel. Please note:

  • You must submit the registration certificate indicating the status of the old vessel.
  • The registration fee on the current registration will be applied towards the registration fee for the new vessel, plus any additional amount if the new vessel is larger.
  • An additional $1 fee will be applied to the final total.

How do I register a previously repossessed vessel?
Vessel registration can only be completed in-person at a DMV hub or branch office. You can make an appointment online.

Bring the following to your appointment:

How do I register a vessel that up until now has only been used as a row boat?
Vessel registration can only be completed in-person at a DMV hub or branch office. You can make an appointment online.
Bring the following to your appointment:

  • Completed notarized ownership affidavit (Form B-203), specifying all required information.
  • Completed application for vessel registration (Form B-148).
  • An acceptable form of payment for the registration fee, which is determined by the length of the vessel. See fee schedule chart for details.
  • Connecticut numbers will assigned to the vessel as part of the registration process.
  • An acceptable form of identification, such as a driver’s license or U.S. passport, for each person listed as an owner of the vessel.

How do I register a vessel that I received as a gift?

How do I register a vessel that was previously registered to a now deceased person?

How do I register a vessel that doesn't have a hull number?

  • Complete the Vessel Registration Application (form B-148) and the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Application for Hull Number (form EPB-502). 
  • A temporary registration will be issued until DEP checks the vessel and assigns the number.
  • Vessels built prior to 1973 do not require a hull number.

How do I register a vessel I have just finished building?

What should I do if I observe suspicious activities?

  • Call the National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802 or 877-24WATCH. 
  • If there’s immediate danger to life or property, call 911.

How is sales tax calculated on vessels? 
The sales tax will be 6.35% of the purchase price for vessels and trailers used for transporting a vessel with a purchase date before July 1, 2018. Vessels and trailers used for transporting a vessel with a purchase date on or after July 1, 2018, will be charged a tax rate of 2.99 percent. 

Can I register or renew my boat if I owe property tax on a motor vehicle? 
No, you won’t be able to register or renew your water vessel registration if you are delinquent on motor vehicle property tax. Learn more about compliance issues and how to resolve them so you can register your vessel.