Register a Boat in Wisconsin

WISCONSIN BOATING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

Make sure you are up to date with Wisconsin boat laws and regulations before operating a boat on the state waterways. Each state has different rules about topics such as boating education, operator age, boat noise, titling, boating under the influence and safety equipment.

IT’S NOT A FEE, IT’S A CONTRIBUTION

When you apply for your boat registration (or WI boat license), you will be required to pay a registration fee. Boat registration fees help fund efforts to preserve our natural resources through activities such as lake clean-up, public boat ramp maintenance and other conservation initiatives.

WISCONSIN BOAT REGISTRATION INFORMATION

• You can register or renew your boat online, through a licensed agent, by mail, or at any Department of Natural Resources office.
• All motorboats must be registered except sailboats (12 ft. or less) not equipped with a motor or sailboards, or manually propelled vessels that are not equipped with a motor or sail.
• Your WI boat license gives you the opportunity to take advantage of some of the best fishing spots that are not accessible by land. Respect these privileges by abiding by state rules and regulations at all times.