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Wisconsin Boat Registration / Title Forms and FAQ

Wisconsin Frequently Asked Questions

Wisconsin Registration and Title Information
Summary of boat registration and titling rules in Wisconsin
How do you register a boat in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, you can register your boat online, in person at DNR offices, or by mail in
Where do you register your boat in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, you register your boat at the DNR
What boats are required to be registered in Wisconsin?
The following boats are required to be registered in Wisconsin: All motorized vessels and boats used on waters of the state; including electric trolling motors, and sailboats greater than 12 feet in length used on waters of the state.
What boats do not require registration in Wisconsin?
The following boats are not required to be registered in Wisconsin: 1) Non Motorized boats (non-sailboats); 2) Non Motorized sailboats 12 feet in length or less; 3) Boats registered in another state and using Wisconsin waters for less than 60 consecutive days; 4) Boats operated under the authority of a temporary operating receipt, no greater than 60 days from the date of application and payment. The temporary operating receipt must be carried onboard; 5) Boats from a country other than the United States temporarily using the waters of the state; 6) A military or public boat of the United States, except recreational-type public vessels; 7) A boat whose owner is a state or subdivision of a state, which is used principally for governmental purposes, and which is clearly identifiable; 8) A ships lifeboat; 9) Boats present in this state, for a period of not to exceed 10 days, for the express purpose of competing in a race conducted under a permit from a municipality or an authorized agency of the U.S. government.
Are USCG documented boats required to be registered in Wisconsin?
USCG documented boats are required to be registered in Wisconsin
How much does it cost to register a boat in Wisconsin?
To register a boat in Wisconsin, the fees are as follows: 1) Under 16 ft. = $22; 2) 16 ft. to less than 26 ft. = $37; 3) 26 ft. to less than 40 ft. = $65; 4) 40 ft. and greater = $105
How much does it cost to get a duplicate boat registration in Wisconsin?
A duplicate boat registration in Wisconsin costs $2.50
How much does it cost to get a duplicate boat decal in Wisconsin?
A duplicate boat decal in Wisconsin costs $2.50
How much does it cost to transfer a boat registration in Wisconsin?
Transfering a boat registration in Wisconsin will cost you $3.75 for vessels under 16 feet, voluntary registration, and USCG documented vessels; $8.75 for vessels 16 feet and over.
Does Wisconsin title boats?
Boats are titled in Wisconsin
Where do you title your boat in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, boats are titled through the DNR
What boats are required to be titled in Wisconsin?
All boats 16 feet in length or greater are required to be titled in Wisconsin
What boats do not require a title in Wisconsin?
Boats exempt from Wisconsin titling requirements include: 1) Boats under 16 feet; 2) Boats voluntarily registered; 3) Boats purchased by nonresidents who intend to register the boat in another state; 4) Boats exempt from registration requirements.
How much does it cost to title a boat in Wisconsin?
It costs $5 to title a boat in Wisconsin
How much does it cost to get a duplicate boat title in Wisconsin?
A duplicate boat title in Wisconsin costs $5.00
How much does it cost to record a lien on a boat in Wisconsin?
Recording a lien in Wisconsin will cost you $5
Does Wisconsin issue e-titles for boats?
Wisconsin does not issue e-titles for boats.
Does Wisconsin require boat inspections?
Wisconsin does not require an inspection to register a boat.
What is the sales tax rate for boats in Wisconsin?
The following rules apply to sales tax on boats in Wisconsin: A 5% sales tax must be collected for all nonexempt private party or dealer sales. County and stadium use taxes may also apply and are based on where the boat is customarily used while in Wisconsin. • County Tax - If the item is customarily kept in a county that has adopted a county tax, a 1/2% county tax must be paid. • Baseball Stadium Tax – If the item is customarily kept in Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Washington or Waukesha County, a 1/10% baseball stadium tax must be paid.
Helpful Links for Wisconsin:
Boat registration | Wisconsin DNR

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