Wisconsin boat registration is handled by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and you'll need to complete it before operating any motorized vessel on state waters.

The process involves submitting a registration form, proof of ownership, and a fee to the DNR. Most boat owners can complete this by mail or in person at a DNR service center. Registration is valid for three years from the date of issue, and you'll receive a registration number that must be displayed on both sides of your boat's hull.

The specific documents and fees depend on whether your boat is new, used, or being transferred from out of state. Wisconsin also requires a hull identification number (HIN) inspection for certain vessels before registration can be finalized.

Key Takeaways

  • Wisconsin requires all motorized boats to be registered with the Department of Natural Resources before they can be operated on state waters.
  • Registration is valid for three years and costs between $30 and $100 depending on your boat's length and whether it's new or used.
  • You'll need proof of ownership (bill of sale, title, or manufacturer's certificate), a completed registration form, and payment to submit your registration.
  • The DNR will issue a registration number that must be painted or attached to both sides of your boat's hull in characters at least three inches tall.
  • New boat owners should request a HIN inspection from the DNR before submitting their registration if the boat has never been registered in Wisconsin.

What documents you need to bring or mail

The Wisconsin DNR requires proof of ownership as the foundation of any registration. If you're registering a new boat, you'll need the manufacturer's certificate of origin. For a used boat purchased in Wisconsin, bring the bill of sale signed by both the seller and buyer. If you're bringing a boat from another state, you'll need the out-of-state registration certificate or title.

You'll also need to complete Form DSHS 113, the Wisconsin Boat Registration process. This form asks for your name, address, the boat's description (length, type, hull color), the HIN, and engine information. The DNR website has a fillable PDF version, or you can pick up a paper copy at any DNR service center.

Bring a valid photo ID and proof of residency if you're registering in person. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days. If you're mailing your registration, include copies of these documents rather than originals.

Registration fees and how they're calculated

Wisconsin boat registration fees are based on the boat's length. Boats under 16 feet cost $30 for three years. Boats 16 to 26 feet cost $50. Boats over 26 feet cost $100. These fees cover the three-year registration period; there is no annual renewal fee.

If you're registering a new boat that has never been registered anywhere, you pay the standard fee. If you're transferring registration from another state, you still pay the Wisconsin fee — there is no credit for the remaining time on an out-of-state registration. Duplicate registration certificates cost $5 each if you lose your original.

Payment can be made by check, money order, or credit card. If you're mailing your registration, make checks payable to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. If you're registering in person at a DNR service center, you can pay by cash, check, or card depending on the location.

Where to submit your registration

You can register your boat by mail or in person. To register by mail, send your completed Form DSHS 113, proof of ownership, and payment to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Law Enforcement, P.O. Box 7921, Madison, WI 53707. Mail processing typically takes two to three weeks.

To register in person, visit any Wisconsin DNR service center. The main office is located in Madison, but there are regional offices throughout the state. You can find the nearest location and current hours on the DNR website. In-person registration is usually completed the same day.

Some county clerk offices also accept boat registrations on behalf of the DNR. Call your county clerk's office to confirm whether they offer this service and what hours they're available.

The HIN inspection requirement

Wisconsin requires a hull identification number (HIN) inspection for any boat being registered for the first time in the state. The HIN is a unique 12-character code assigned by the manufacturer and is typically located on the starboard (right) side of the hull near the top edge.

You can request a HIN inspection by contacting your local DNR warden or the DNR office in your region. The inspection is free and usually takes less than 15 minutes. The warden will verify that the HIN on the boat matches the HIN on your ownership documents and will sign off on the inspection form.

Once the inspection is complete, include the signed inspection form with your registration process. If you're registering a boat that was previously registered in Wisconsin or another state, you typically do not need a new HIN inspection — the previous registration serves as proof.

What happens after you submit your registration

After the DNR receives your registration, they will verify your ownership documents and check that the HIN inspection (if required) is complete. If everything is in order, they'll issue your registration certificate and send it to you by mail. This process takes two to three weeks for mail submissions.

Your registration certificate will show your registration number, the boat's description, and the expiration date (three years from the issue date). You do not need to carry the certificate with you on the water, but it's a good idea to keep it at home for your records.

Once you receive your certificate, you must paint or attach the registration number to both sides of your boat's hull. The numbers must be at least three inches tall, in a contrasting color, and clearly visible. The registration number format is two letters followed by four numbers (for example, AB1234). You can use paint, decals, or metal plates — the DNR does not specify a particular method as long as the numbers are permanent and readable.

Renewing your Wisconsin boat registration

Wisconsin boat registrations are valid for three years. About 30 days before your registration expires, the DNR will mail you a renewal notice. You can renew by mail or in person using the same process as initial registration.

To renew by mail, complete the renewal form included in the notice, include your current registration certificate, and mail it with payment to the DNR. To renew in person, bring your current registration certificate and payment to a DNR service center or participating county clerk office.

If your boat's ownership or description changes (for example, you repaint the hull or install a new engine), you should notify the DNR when you renew. You can also request a new registration certificate at any time by contacting the DNR and paying a $5 fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register a boat with an electric motor or a sailboat?

Electric motors and sailboats without motors do not require registration in Wisconsin. However, if your sailboat has any auxiliary motor (even a small electric one), it must be registered. Canoes, kayaks, and rowboats without motors are also exempt from registration.

What if I buy a boat from a private seller and they still have the registration?

You'll need to contact the DNR to transfer the registration into your name. Bring the current registration certificate, a bill of sale signed by both you and the seller, and payment for any transfer fee. The DNR can tell you whether a transfer fee applies or if you straightforward renew under your name.

Can I register my boat online?

Wisconsin does not currently offer online boat registration. You must register by mail or in person at a DNR service center or participating county clerk office. The DNR website has downloadable forms and a list of service center locations and hours.

What if my boat doesn't have a HIN?

All boats manufactured after 1972 are required to have a HIN. If your boat was built before 1972 or the HIN is missing or illegible, contact the DNR before attempting to register. They can provide guidance on how to proceed, which may involve obtaining a replacement HIN from the manufacturer or a special inspection.

Do I need boat insurance to register in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin does not require boat insurance as a condition of registration. However, if you have a loan on the boat, your lender will likely require insurance. It's also a good idea to carry insurance to protect yourself in case of accident or damage.