Boat Registration and Licenses in Minnesota

What to Register

• All motorized vessels.

• All non-motorized vessels.

Exemptions

• Non-motorized vessels, ten feet or less in length.

• Watercraft currently registered in another state that are in Minnesota for no more than 90 consecutive days.

• Watercraft from another country that are in Minnesota for no more than 90 consecutive days.

• U.S. government-owned vessels, except those used for recreational purposes.

• Documented vessels.

• Ship's lifeboat.

• Duck boats (used during duck hunting season).

• Rice boats (used during the harvest season).

• Seaplanes.

Requirements and Procedures

For new boat purchases (except for kayaks and canoes), if the vessel is more than 16 feet long, the dealer will handle the registration and titling processes for you.

Consult the state's boating guide for details on the proper registration number and decal placement, as well as where to keep the registration card.

Registering your new boat may be done in person or by mail. Here's how:

Register in Person

1. Complete the registration application.
2. Find your sales tax receipt.
3. Take the necessary fee.
4. With your registration fee and necessary paperwork go to any deputy registrar of motor vehicles.
5. You may also register in person at the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) License Center at the address listed below.

Register by Mail

If you prefer to handle your registration by mail, send the required documentation and fee to:

• DNR License Center

• 500 Lafayette Road

• St. Paul, MN 55155

Expect to wait several weeks to receive your registration materials.

Fees

Registration fees vary according to a variety of factors, including the length and type of vessel.

Renewals and Replacements

Registrations are valid for three years, and expire on December 31 of the final year. You should receive a renewal notice in the mail just before the expiration date.

Make sure to replace your old decals with the new ones.

You may renew in person or online. Here's how:

Renew in Person

Take your renewal card and fee payment to any deputy registrar of motor vehicles location, or the DNR License Center.

Renew Online

Visit the renewal site and follow the instructions provided. Pay by VISA, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express card.

Your registration material will be mailed to you within 5 to 10 business days

Replace Lost Registration

Receive a duplicate registration by visiting the DNR License Center or a deputy registrar of motor vehicles location, and paying the $4.50 fee.

You may also request a duplicate registration by sending a letter with your name, registration number, and hull identification number (HIN) to:

• DNR License Center

• 500 Lafayette Road

• St. Paul, MN 55155

Be sure to include your $4.50 fee payment.

Boater's License

To operate a vessel with more than 25 horsepower unsupervised, you must obtain a watercraft operator’s permit if you're between the ages of 12 and 17. If you're younger than 12 years old, you may not operate such a vessel, regardless of whether you are properly supervised.

Receive your operator permit by successfully completing a state-approved safety course.

Boater Safety Courses

The DNR provides a operator test packet that contains the materials you'll need to obtain your permit.

Order the package by:

• Calling (888) 646-6367 or (800) 657-3929 (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf).

• E-mailing info@dnr.state.mn.us (include your name and address).

• Writing letter to the DNR Center (address below) that includes your name and address.

• Minnesota DNR

• Boat & Water Safety Section

• 500 Lafayette Road

• St. Paul, MN 55155-4046

Even if you're not required to take the course, doing so allows you to become a safer boater, while possibly reducing your insurance costs.

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