Boat Registration and Licenses in Kansas

Kansas Boat Registration and Licensing

All boat registrations are processed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT). On this page, we'll teach you about registering your vessel AND the qualifications needed to operate watercraft on KS waters.

What to Register in Kansas

In Kansas, you will need to apply for registration on ANY vessel (including personal watercraft) powered by:

  • Sail.
  • Gasoline.
  • Diesel.
  • Electricity.

You do not need to register boats currently registered in another state being used in Kansas for less than 60 consecutive days.

KS Vessel Registration and Procedures

In Kansas, you can register your boat either in person OR by mail. Regardless of which option you choose, begin by gathering the following items:

Then, complete the registration process by providing the items above:

If you have additional questions about registering your boat with the KDWPT, call their boat registration line at (620) 672-5911.

Boat Registration Fees in Kansas

The fees associated with registering your boat with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism are as follows:

  • Original/renewal registration for ALL boats: $42.50.
  • Replacement registration: $2.50.
  • Sales tax:
    • State: 6.5% of the purchase price.
    • Local: Depends on your KS county of residence.

Boat Registration Renewals & Replacements

Boat registrations are valid for 3 years. Approximately 6 weeks before your registration expiration date, the KDWPT will mail you a renewal notice.

You can renew your boat's registration by submitting information about your boat AND the applicable renewal fees:

Replacing Lost Registration

Replace a damaged or lost boat registration by providing a request in writing AND the $2.50 replacement fee to the KS Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism:

  • In person at your nearest:
  • By mail to:
    • Department of Wildlife and Parks
    • 512 S.E. 25th Ave
    • Pratt, KS 67214

KS Boater Qualifications

According to age restrictions set out by the KDWPT, you may need to take a boater safety education course to operate certain watercraft in Kansas. If you are:

  • Born on or after January 1, 1989, you must complete a safety course to operate a sailboat or motorboat in Kansas.
  • Under 21 years old, you must complete an approved boater education course to operate vessels propelled by motors or sails without direct supervision.
  • Under the age of 12 years old, you MAY NOT operate a motorized boat without the supervision of someone who's at least 18 years old, regardless of whether you've taken a safety course.

You can complete the KDWPT's education requirement and receive your boater safety certificate:

  • Online.
  • In a classroom.
  • With a home-study packet.

Check out the KS Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism's page on boating certification to see your options for boating education providers.

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