Boat Registration and Licenses in Idaho

What to Register

• All vessels with mechanical propulsion.

What Not to Register

• Manually propelled vessels (such as canoes and kayaks).

• Float tubes.

• Sailboards.

Exemptions

• Vessels documented with the U.S. Coast Guard.

• Vessels currently registered in another state but being used on Idaho's waterways for 60 consecutive days or less.

Requirements and Procedures

Your registration must be on your boat whenever the boat is in operation. To obtain proper registration:

1. Find your proof of ownership.
2. Have your registration fee ready.
3. Go to any of the following locations to complete your registration:
   • Local boat registration vendor.
   • Motor vehicle offices.
   • Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR).
4. The state website provides information on how to properly attach your registration number and stickers to your boat.

Fees

Registration fees vary depending on the length of the boat:

• Less than 12': $20

• Longer than 12' feet: $20 plus $2 per every foot Longer than 12'

Boats owned by non-profit agencies carry a $2 registration fee. A $1.50 vendor fee is added to all fees.

Renewals and Replacements

Your registration will expire on December 31 of each year. If you let your registration lapse, you must renew it before you can use your boat.

Renew by Mail

Return the renewal application along with your fee payment to the address listed on the form.

In Person

You can renew at either of the following agencies:

• Local boat registration vendor.

• Motor vehicle offices.

Bring in your renewal form and some sort of identification.

Replace Lost Registration

Obtain a duplicate registration by calling (208) 514-2475 or by visiting a motor vehicle office. The fee varies, depending on whether you need the registration form, the decals, or both.

Boater License

Although there aren't any statewide requirements requiring new boaters to obtain a license or be of a certain age before operating a vessel, some local governments are enacting their own rules regarding some of these issues.

Boater Safety Courses

Boating safety courses aren't initially mandated, but if you're a repeat offender of boating laws you'll have to pass a boater safety course to continue operating a boat.

Even if you're not required to take a safety course, doing so allows you to become a better educated boater, and may even reduce your insurance rates.

Both classroom and online courses are available; hours and fees vary with the provider.

See the Idaho Parks and Recreation Department (IDPR) boating education page for more details.

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