I attempted to register online via the NOAA site and got to the point where they wanted $15.00. I called and spoke to a young lady from NOAA, who advised that NJ residents have to pay the $15.00 dollars. I advised that the NJ governor had sign a bill exempting NJ residents from paying the registration fee. She further advised that I was wrong and would have to register and pay for myself and my boat. She provide further information that did not make any sense, but would cost me more money.
I then called NJ fish, game and wildlife. They advised that NJ residents do NOT have to pay the $15.00, but NJ registration program is not up and running, but will be shortly. If you wait for the NJ registry to start there is no fee, but if you register with NOAA you will have to pay the $15.00 for nothing.
I'm waiting. It appears that NOAA is attempting to get whatever money they can from NJ residents.