You’re all set with your new boat and keen to get out on the water – but you’re not sure where to start with registration. At Boat Names Australia, we’ve got you covered, we make the requirements for registering your boat straightforward so you can focus on enjoying your new boat to the fullest.

Boat registration requirements differ for each state so we’ll break down the specific process for Western Australia.

When and how to register your boat in WA

In WA all recreational vessels that have the ability to be propelled by mechanical power must be registered.

This can be completed by submitting an application at a Department of Transport Driver and Vehicle Service Centre. If you live regionally there are alternate options such as a Regional Centre or Regional Authorised Agent.

To apply you will require a new boat registration form, Hull ID certificate, proof of identity, and evidence of how you came to possess the boat. You’ll also need to pay associated registration fees which will depend on the length of your boat.

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How to display your boat registration numbers in WA

As with your car, there are also requirements for how to display your boat registration in WA. These vary depending on the type of boat you own, but here are the general guidelines:

Power boats should have registration numbers at least 150mm tall and are to be displayed on the side of the ship and be clearly visible (i.e.; not hidden by the bow)
Yachts fitted with motors should have registration numbers that are 50mm tall, displayed forward of the transom on the side of the hull
As well as registration numbers, boats also need to have the registration label affixed next to the registration number on the port side.

Tenders don’t need to be registered individually but do need to display their parent vessel’s registration number on each side, forward of the transom.

Personalised boat names and registration numbers from Boat Names Australia

Now you have the legalities out of the way, it’s time for the fun part – designing your boat name and matching the registration numbers to display on your boat.

At Boat Names Australia we can work with you to design the perfect looking boat name for your vessel as well as provide you with numbers to ensure you’re meeting all requirements for boat registration in WA. We aim to make this process as quick and easy as possible for you, and most importantly – fun!

Looking for boat registration requirements in QLD? We have details on that too!

FAQs

Do boats have to be registered WA?

A recreational boat will need to be registered in WA if it is propelled by mechanical power such as electric motors or sails. It is an offence to use or berth such a vessel in WA without registration.

How do I transfer ownership of a boat in Western Australia?

Transferring boat registration in WA is simple on the Department of Transportation (DoT) website or by using the DoTDirect app. There is also the availability to submit an application in person or via mail. Required details are:

Purchaser’s name
Purchaser’s drivers license number (must be from WA)
The date of sale
The boat registration number

What about other Australian States' Boat Registration?

Are you moving interstate? Or planning to cruise around Australia? (Ahhh, lucky you! Now that’s the life…) Just a head’s up, many states require you to register your vessel if you stay for more than 3 months.
Have a look at our Australian Boat Rego overview page to see the requirements for each state and territory.

Boat Registration – WA