How to Register Motorcycles, Boats, and More in Mississippi
Registering your motorcycle, boat, or other vehicle is important in Mississippi, as it ensures that your vehicle is legal to drive or use on state roads or waterways. But with different requirements for different types of cars and different fees to pay, the registration process can be confusing for some drivers.
In this blog post, we will guide you through registering your motorcycle, boat, and other vehicles in Mississippi so you can avoid unnecessary fines and drive legally on state roads and waterways.
Registering a Motorcycle (Mississippi)
In Mississippi, motorcycle registration is required for all two or three-wheel motor vehicles designed for or capable of traveling on the roads. To register your motorcycle, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Proof of ownership, such as a certificate of title or bill of sale.
- Application for a title that is signed by both BUYER and SELLER
- Form 78-015) Odometer Disclosure Statement
- Mississippi Drivers License (Motorcycle)
- The bike VIN number is for tax purposes.
- Registration Fee of $14.00 and additional fees and taxes.
You are not required to have insurance when registering your bike with the Mississippi DRO but you are legally required to have insurance when operating your bike in MS.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can visit your local Mississippi Department of Revenue office to complete the registration process. The fees for motorcycle registration vary depending on the size and type of your motorcycle, so be sure to check with the office for the exact amount you need to pay.
Registering a Motorcycle with a Dealer
When purchasing a motorcycle from a Mississippi dealership, the registration process is typically taken care of by the agent. The registration fee for a motorcycle is $14, which is usually included in the purchase price along with any other applicable fees and taxes.
Make sure to verify with the dealer if they require any additional information from you to complete the registration.
Sometimes, the dealership may provide a temporary registration until you receive your permanent registration and license plates in the mail. If the dealership does not handle the registration, please refer to the “Registering a Motorcycle with a Private Seller” section for further guidance.
Registering a Motorcycle with a Private Seller
When purchasing a motorcycle from a private seller, you are responsible for completing the registration process yourself. The time you have to register your bike in Mississippi depends on the following:
- MS county of residence: 7 business days from your purchase date.
- Outside your county: 7 business days plus an additional 48 hours from the sale date.
Registering a Boat
After purchasing a boat, you have 10 days to register the vessel in your name. To start the process, gather the following required items:
- Complete (REV 2016) Mississippi Motor Boat Registration Application Form: You will be able to detach the bottom of the application form and use it as temp registration while you wait for your official decal and registration to arrive in the mail.
- You will need proof of purchase of any of the following documents you would be able to show proof of ownership. Bill of Sale, Sales Recept, or a Notarized letter stating you are the owner of the boat.
- Payments of Fees and Taxes
You will need to submit the above documents in person or by mail to:
Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks
Boating Division
1505 Eastover Drive
Jackson, MS 39211
Boat registrations with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) are valid for three years from the last day of the month in which the boat was registered.
What are the Fees to Register a Boat in MS?
The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks charges the following fees for boat registration:
Original Boat Registration and Renewal
- Less than 16 ft in length: $10.20.
- 16 ft up to 26 ft in length: $25.20.
- 26 ft up to 40 ft in length: $47.70.
- 40 ft in length and over $47.70.
Duplicate Boat Registration: $7.70
Mississippi Sales Tax: 7% of the boat price.
The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) will send you a renewal notice for your boat’s registration before it expires. To renew your registration, you will need to provide the necessary fees and information about your vessel.
- Online using the MDWFP’s registration renewal portal.
- By calling (800) 546-4868.
- By mail to the address listed on your renewal notice.
Conclusion:
Registering your motorcycle, boat, or other vehicle in Mississippi may seem daunting at first, but with the right information and documents, the process can be completed easily. Just remember to have all the necessary documents, including ownership, insurance, and proof of payment of all fees, and check with your local Mississippi Department of Revenue or Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks for any specific requirements or fees. By following these steps, you can drive and use your vehicle legally and avoid any unwanted fines or penalties.
