Top 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.

Top Exemptions

• Any boat registered in another state and not kept in Washington for more than 60 days.

• Any U.S. Coast Guard-documented boat.

Top Requirements and Procedures

1. Complete a Vessel Title Application. (A dealer will do this for you if you bought it there.)
2. Provide proof you paid your boat's sales tax.
3. Pay all applicable fees.
4. 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

Top Fees

Annual fee: $20.25

Top Renewals and Replacements

All boat registrations are valid for one year and expire on June 30.

Renew Online

Renew online using MasterCard or Visa.

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

Top 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.

Top Boater Safety Courses

• Online: Take a state-approved online course through Boater Exam.

• Classroom: Courses are offered throughout the state.

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