Register a Boat in Minnesota

MINNESOTA BOATING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

As a boat operator, you are responsible for knowing the MN boating laws that pertain to topics such as boat registration, visual distress signals, life jackets, navigation lights, navigation aids, and trailering. In many states, it is a requirement that all beginning boaters take a boater education course prior to operating a motorized vessel.

IT’S NOT A FEE, IT’S A CONTRIBUTION

Be aware that when you apply for your boat registration, you will be required to pay a registration fee. Boat registration fees are collected to help with conservation and maintenance of state waterways. Public boat ramps, marinas, and waterway clean-up efforts are funded with boat registration dollars.

MINNESOTA BOAT REGISTRATION INFORMATION

• All motorized watercraft 10ft and more needs to be registered in the state. Boat registrations are good for 3 calendar years.
• Any vessel that is used or moored on Minnesota waterways, including private lakes, must be registered.
• When registering your boat for the first time, make sure you know its length, manufacturer, type of hull material, type of propulsion, model, year, serial identification number, and have the sales receipt ready.