Which Boats Require Registration?
Requirements for vessel registration vary from state to state. In Rhode Island, you must have a Certificate of Number (registration card) and validation decals to operate your vessel legally on Rhode Island’s public waters. The only exceptions are:
- A vessel properly registered in another state using Rhode Island waters for 90 days or less, or vessels from another country temporarily using Rhode Island waters
- Ships’ lifeboats or vessels used only for racing
- A rowboat less than 12 feet long, unless motorized
- A canoe or kayak, unless motorized
