Gregg County's boat counter handles renewals, not every boat transaction

Texas registers every boat with a motor. It also registers any boat 14 feet or longer that has no motor, plus vessels listed with the federal government. Canoes, kayaks, punts, rowboats, and rubber rafts need no state registration when they have no motor. Most other boats under 14 feet are also exempt without a motor.

Registration lasts two years. Gregg County serves its residents for renewals only. It cannot do a first registration, title, or transfer. For a renewal, bring the notice or Form PWD 143M, photo ID, and payment. A helper needs the owner's signed renewal or Form PWD 581.

A first registration, title, or transfer belongs at a full-service TPWD office. A boat trailer uses a separate TxDMV title and registration process.