Minnesota Statute 86B.301 requires that watercraft owned by Minnesota residents must be licensed unless exempt. A public use watercraft license is valid for three years from the year of issuance. For titled watercraft being transferred, transfer must be applied for using the Minnesota or out-of-state title. For more information, see the
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website.
Reserve your appointment
Drop box available
Registration can be renewed via the drop boxes located at each location.
Walk-ins available
Service and license centers are open for walk-ins.
View walk-in wait times
Fees
Fees vary, depending on the type, length and use of the watercraft. For more information, see the
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website.
Payment options
Cash, check, money orders, and credit or debit cards (Discover, Visa or MasterCard) are accepted. A 2.15-percent convenience fee is charged for credit and debit cards on this DVS-related service.
Required identification
The owner’s valid driver’s license or state identification card is required to complete registration.
Owner must appear in person
The owner of the boat must appear in person if transferring ownership or registering a new boat at one of the three locations. The owner must provide:
- Registration number (if issued)
- Make
- Model
- Year
- Length
- Serial number—hull ID
- Motor size
- Bill of Sale document (if change in ownership)
- Title or Manufacture Statement of Origina (if applicable)
- Valid driver's license, state identification card or approved ID
For a new watercraft registration, bring the manufacturer's statement of origin (MSO), Title or Bill of Sale. The owner must be able to show, with a receipt, that state sales tax has been paid. Otherwise, sales tax will be collected present evidence of sales tax paid or the sales tax will be due at the time of registration.
Renewals
A notice will be mailed to the owner. Please bring the notice when renewing your license. If the renewal notice was lost or not received, the owner must provide the registration number as well as driver's license, state identification card or approved ID.