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Boat Registration and Licenses in Washington

What to Register
Any boat or other water vessel that is 16 feet or longer, has a motor larger than 10 horsepower, or is used on federal waters.
What Not to Register
- Non-motorized canoes.
- Non-motorized kayaks.
- Non-motorized rowboats.
Exemptions
- Any boat registered in another state and not kept in Washington for more than 60 days.
- Any U.S. Coast Guard-documented boat.
Requirements and Procedures
- Complete a Vessel Title Application. (A dealer will do this for you if you bought it there.)
- Provide proof you paid your boat's sales tax.
- Pay all applicable fees.
- Complete transaction at any Department of Licensing (DOL) office. Or, mail it to:
- ATTN: Vehicle Licensing
- Department of Licensing
- P.O. Box 9909
- Olympia, Washington 98507-9909
Fees
Annual fee: $20.25
Renewals and Replacements
All boat registrations are valid for one year and expire on June 30.
Renew Online
Renew online using MasterCard, American Express, Visa or debit card.
Renew by Mail
Mail to the address on your renewal notice.
Renew in Person
Visit any DOL location. Bring your renewal notice.
Replace Lost Registration
Visit any DOL location with your boat's registration number. Cost: $5
Boater License
As of 2009, all operators 25 years and younger who operate a motorboat with an engine of 15 horsepower or more must have a Washington Boater Education card.
Boater Safety Courses
- Online: Take a state-approved online course through BoaterExam.com.
- Classroom: Courses are offered throughout the state.
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