Owners of small boats often face the question: do you need boat numbers and how to properly issue them through GIMS? In 2026, the rules for registering boats have undergone changes, and now even owners of small PVC boats with engines powered by the power of the engine of the boats. 5 hp You have to go through the registration process, and without valid numbers, you can be fined up to the amount of money you need. 2,000 rublesIn some cases, the boat is not allowed to operate.
In this article, we will discuss step-by-step algorithm for obtaining numbers, a list of necessary documents, current tariffs and nuances for different types of boats (PVC, aluminum, with outboard motors). quirky, because of which registration is denied, and legal schemes of βbypassingβ GIMS requirements, which can turn into even greater problems.
Who needs a boat number in 2026?
According to the latest version Order of the Ministry of Emergency Situations No. 496 From 2023, registration with GIMS is required for:
- π₯οΈ Any small craft powered 5 hp. and above (including electric motors of equivalent power).
- β΅ Boat long 2.5 meters, even if they are used without a motor (for example, sailing or rowing).
- π§ Improper boats lengthif they are equipped with a motor or have a load capacity of more than 225 kg.
- π€ Hydrocycles and other mechanical-swimming-stuff regardless of power.
Important: from 2026 Even PVC boats with an inflatable keel length of 3.5 meters are subject to mandatory registration, if they are equipped with a motor from 3.5 hp. This innovation is associated with the increasing incidence of accidents on the water due to unaccounted for βgrayβ boats.
Exceptions are:
- π£ Inflatable boats without a rigid hull long 2.5m motorized up to 3.5 hp (But they canβt be used on navigable rivers!)
- π£ Long rowboats 2.5m without a motor.
- π Surfboards, kayaks and others floater.
β οΈ Attention: If your boat falls under the registration criteria, but does not have numbers, the inspector of the GIMS has the right to boat away The boat can only be returned after all the documents have been issued and the fine has been paid.
What documents are needed to obtain GIMS numbers?
To register a boat with the GIMS, you will need to collect a package of documents, its composition depends on the type of vessel and the method of acquisition (new / b.o., homemade / factory).
| Type of boat | Documents required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New factory boat |
|
The technical data sheet must be manufacturer-certified Or a dealer. |
| B/w |
|
When changing number owner unchanged - only the data in the GIMS database. |
| Homemade boat |
|
Homemade vessels pass supplementary examination to comply with safety standards. |
In addition, may require:
- π Certificate of absence of arrest (If the boat is under arrest or under bail)
- π³ Receipt of payment of the state duty (the size depends on the type of vessel).
- π Power of attorneyIf the documents are not submitted by the owner.
Prepare originals + copies of passport | Check availability of boat data sheet | Pay the state fee in advance (requisites on the GIMS website) |Photograph the boat with engine number (if any) | Fill out the application without errors (sample at the stand in GIMS)->
How much does it cost to book a boat in 2026?
The cost of registering a boat with GIMS consists of several mandatory payments. Here are the current tariffs for 2026:
| Payment type | Amount (rupe) | Who gets paid? |
|---|---|---|
| State fee for registration | 1 600 | Bank (according to GIMS details) |
| Certificate fee | 500 | Bank |
| Manufacture of license plates (2 pcs) | 800β1 500 | Specialized workshop |
| Examination of a makeshift vessel | 3 000β5 000 | Accredited organization |
| Urgent registration (in 1 day) | +1,000 to base value | GIMS (if available) |
Totally. minimum for the new factory boat will be ~2,900 rubles (excluding plate manufacture) For home-made vessels, the amount can be as high as 8,000 to 10,000 rubles Because of the mandatory examination.
Where do I pay? State fees may be paid:
- π¦ Through the bank (Sberbank, VTB, Tinkoff) according to the details of your regional GIMS.
- π» On the website GIME (Section "Payment for services").
- π± Through the mobile application "Public Services" (there is a 30% discount for non-cash payment).
β οΈ Attention: If you have paid the fee, but did not have time to submit documents during the 30 daysYou'll have to pay it back through the courts or repay it.
Step by step instructions: how to get numbers for the boat
The registration procedure of the boat in GIMS consists of 5 main stagesLet's look at each one in detail.
-
Preparation of documents.
Collect a package of documents (see section above) and check to:
- π The boats were listed in the passport.
serial,modelandyear-end. - ποΈ The application has been completed legible (preferably in printed letters).
- π° Payment receipts were fresh-dated (not older than 30 days).
- π The boats were listed in the passport.
-
Submission of documents to GIMS.
Go to the gyms Find the nearest one to the place of residence. websiteDocuments are accepted by appointment (in some regions β on a first-come, first-served basis).
Before visiting, call GIMS to see if they accept documents for your type of boat. Some departments don't work with homemade vessels or jet skis.
-
Inspector's inspection of the boat.
The GIMS inspector will check:
- π Conformity
serialon the body data in the passport. - π οΈ Presence lifejacketsFire extinguisher and other safety equipment (for motor boats).
- π Dimensions and load capacity (must coincide with the declared).
If the boat is homemade, the inspection may take up to 3 working days.
- π Conformity
-
Obtaining a certificate of registration.
After approval, you will be issued:
- π Certificate of registration (acts indefinitely).
- π·οΈ Number plates (2 grand, bow and stern).
- π Technical ticket (Appended to the certificate).
The numbers shall be fixed:
- π Nana lesions (not less than 10 cm in size).
- π¨ With the use of noncorrosive (stainless rivets, screws).
- π§οΈ Under transparent-coated (to keep them from washing up)
The term of registration of the boat in the GIMS is up to 10 working days from the date of submission of documents. With urgent registration (for an additional fee) - 1-3 days.
What do the GIMS numbers look like and where do they fit?
Number plates for small craft have a strict format, established by the law. GOST R 52056-2003They consist of:
- π’ Series (2 letters, denoting the region of registration, for example)
MOfor the Moscow region). - π’ Numbers. 5 digits unique to each boat.
- π’ Year of registration (last 2 digits, for example)
24for 2026.
Example of correct number: MO 12345 24.
Accommodation requirements:
- π Numbers and letters are sized. at least 100 mm in height, the width of the line is 15 mm.
- π¨ Color: black-size (A yellow contrast background is allowed for PVC boats).
- π Locations:
- Nana nose (center or left/right).
- Nana feed (If the length of the boat is more than 6 m)
It is forbidden:
- β Put on numbers paint (only hard plates).
- β Close the rooms. loading.
- β Use it. non-standard (Only the GOST sample).
What happens if the numbers are unreadable?
If the GIMS inspector is unable to identify your boat number (for example, due to contamination or damage), this is equated to the number of your boat. lack of registration and is punishable by a fine of up to 2,000 rubles.
Fines for lack of GIMS numbers in 2026
Liability for violation of the rules of registration of small courts is regulated RF Administrative Code (Article 11.8.1)Fines:
| Violation | Fine for individuals (ruble) | Penalty for legal entities (rupe) | Additional measures |
|---|---|---|---|
| No registration(s) | 1 500β2 000 | 10 000β15 000 | Seizure of the vessel before the violation is corrected |
| Numbers do not correspond to the GOST | 1 000 | 5 000 | Obligation to reissue within 10 days |
| Driving without a certificate | 2 000β3 000 | 20 000β30 000 | Deprivation of the right to manage for 1-2 years |
| Fake numbers. | 3 000β5 000 | 50 000β100 000 | Criminal liability (Article 327 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation) |
Features:
- π Fine is issued. spot-on Inspector GIMS or police.
- πΈ You can pay at a discount. 50% within 20 days.
- π¨ If the boat is broken again, it can seize.
β οΈ Attention: If you bought a boat with an engine numberlessAnd the previous owner says that "all decorated", demand registrationWithout him, the deal is illegitimate, and you'll be fined!
Frequent errors in the design of GIMS numbers
Even experienced water-engineers make mistakes when registering boats. TOP-5 missesAnd they are denied the right to receive:
-
Data inconsistency in the passport and on the boat.
For example, the serial number on the transom does not match the one on the documents. This is an automatic refusal! check all the numbers.
-
Attempt to register a boat without a motor if its length is > 2.5 m.
A lot of people think that you can't register a rowing boat 3 meters long. From 2026, any vessel with a length of 2.5 meters must be counted, even without a motor..
-
Unpaid fines for water violations.
If you have unpaid GIMS fines, registration will be denied until they are paid. GABD (Section "Penalty Check").
-
Homemade numbers or non-standard fastening.
Numbers drawn by hand or taped will not pass the test. metallic with rivets.
-
Submitting documents to the wrong GIMS.
Register the boat at the place permanent registrationThe exception is temporary registration (up to 3 months).
How do you avoid problems?
- π Beforehand. check out the boat's completeness (All passports and certificates must be included).
- π Call GIMS and clarify the list of documents for your case.
- π If the boat is used, Check it out with GIMS. You're not afraid of arrests or hijackings.
FAQ: Frequent questions about GIMS numbers per boat
Do I need to register a PVC boat with a length of 3.2 m with a 3.5 hp engine?
Yes, since 2026. all PVC boats with a length of 3.5 m are subject to registration, even if the engine is less than 5 hp The exception is inflatable boats without a rigid hull up to 2.5 m long.
Can I ride a boat without a number if I just bought it?
No, you have it from the moment you buy it. 10 days. You can take the boat to the storage area during this period, but without passengers And with a check on board.
What to do if you lose your registration certificate?
You have to go to the GIMS with your passport and a duplicate application. 500 rublesThe numbers are the same.
Can I register a boat for a minor?
Yes, but only if available. parental written consent The motor boat is allowed to operate from the age of 16 (with GIMS license).
Do I need to take the boat off the books when selling?
No, the new owner is re-registering the boat, but you have to. report change of ownership within 10 days after the sale (application on form No. 2-GIMS).