Boat Registration and Licenses

What to Register

• All motor boats.

• Sail boats longer than 12 feet in length.

What Not to Register

• Canoes.

• Kayaks.

• Sailboards.

• Inflatable vessels.

Exemptions

• Seaplanes.

• Any boat registered in another state, provided it is not kept in South Dakota for more than 60 consecutive days.

Requirements and Procedures

All boats requiring registration must also be titled.

1. Visit your county treasurer's office. Register in your county of residence, rather than in the county where you use your boat.
2. Complete an Application for Boat Title.
3. Provide proof of ownership (manufacturer's statement of origin, bill of sale or dealer invoice).
4. Provide either your South Dakota driver's license or Social Security card.
5. Pay all applicable fees.

Boats must be titled within 30 days of purchasing.

Fees

Sail Boats Longer Than 12 Feet and Boats Propelled by Electric Motors

• One year: $10

• Three years: $20

Motorboats Shorter Than 19 Feet

• One year: $15

• Three years: $40

Motorboats 19 Feet and Longer

• One year: $30

• Three years:$ 80

Title Fees

• Title: $5

• Title With Liens: $5 for title and $5 for each lien

Renewals and Replacements

You have the option of registering for one year or three years.

Renew Online

Only available in certain counties. Call your county treasurer.

Renew in Person

Bring a photo ID and either your renewal notification or your boat's old registration to your county treasurer's office

Renew by Mail

Mail renewal notification to your county treasurer's office.

Replace Lost Registration

Visit your county treasurer's office with proof of identification. Cost: $1

Boater License

South Dakota does not require a boating safety certificate to operate a boat.

Boater Safety Courses

For information on boating safety, visit Boater Exam or the South Dakota Division of Wildlife's Web page.