Mississippi Vessel Registration Exemptions: Federal, Non-Motorized, Racing, and More

Under Miss. Code Ann. §45-1-27, the following vessels are exempt from state numbering/registration:

• Already federally documented or numbered under another state’s approved system (if in MS <60 consecutive days).
• Exempt under federal law.
• Owned by U.S. government, a state, or political subdivision.
• Used exclusively for racing.
• Non-motorized (oars, paddles, sails only).
• Livery/rental boats leased <7 days.
• Foreign vessels temporarily using MS waters.
• Vessels with a valid U.S. Coast Guard marine document.

All other motorized vessels principally used in Mississippi must be titled and registered.