Boat Registration – New South Wales
You and your boat are ready to get out onto the open water – but first you need to organise registration.
At Boat Names Australia we appreciate that it can be confusing when trying to determine what the requirements are for registering your boat, particularly when the specifics are different for each state. We help to make boat registration in NSW as simple as possible so you can focus on enjoying your boat.
When and how to organise boat registration in NSW
In New South Wales it is a requirement to register all boats with a 4kW or greater engine, any power-driven or sailing vessel of 5.5 metres+ and all vessels that are subject to a mooring license. This also includes Personal Watercraft (PWC).
You can do this by attending a NSW service centre or by posting the required documentation (including proof of purchase and Boatcode certificate). you will be advised of the registration numbers that have been allocated to your boat.
How to display your boat registration numbers in NSW
Just like cars, there are specific requirements for how you must display your boat registration in NSW. These differ depending on the size of your boat and the type of registration.
- Registration numbers must be visible from 60m away
- Numbers are to be contrasting in colour to the ship’s hull
- Mechanically propelled vessels should have numbers at least 150mm high on both sides on the forward section of the hull
- Sailing vessels should have registration numbers at least 100mm high on both sides of the hull adjacent to the stern
- PWCs should have characters at least 100mm high on both sides
- Commercial vessels should have permit numbers or commercial registration numbers at least 150mm high on each side as well
Personalised boat names and registration numbers from Boat Names Australia
Now for the part you can look forward to – designing your boat name and the matching registration numbers to display on your boat.
Design your own boat name online or work with our experienced team of designers to find the perfect look for your boat. At Boat Names Australia we make the process quick, easy and fun!
Looking for boat registration requirements for VIC? We’ve got you covered there too.
FAQs
Do all boats need to be registered in NSW?
All boats with a 4kW or greater engine, any power-driven or sailing vessel of 5.5 metres+ and all vessels that are subject to a mooring license are required to be registered.
What do I need to register a boat?
To apply for a boat registration in NSW you will need to complete an application for vessel registration, pay the associated registration fee and provide the following documents:
- Proof of purchase
- Boatcode certificate
- Proof of identity
