Note that new residents have 60 days to register their boats in Tennessee. If you're a non-resident, such as those visiting or vacationing, you do not need to register your boat here if you use it on Tennessee waters for less than 60 consecutive days. It must be currently registered in your home state, though.

In order to register your boat for the first time, you must obtain and complete the boat registration form, which is available at your county clerk's office or from your boat dealer. If this is the first time your boat has ever been registered, the application must be stamped by the county clerk's office or the dealer proving that you paid the sales tax. If you purchased your boat from an individual, or are taking over the ownership of the boat for any other reason, proof of sales tax payment isn't required; however, you must provide a Bill of Sale.