Register a Boat in Wisconsin
Boating connects you with nature and is an enjoyable activity for the entire family. Once you have applied for your WI boat license, you are one step closer to days spent floating on sparkling blue lake or river waters. Learn more about license requirements and Wisconsin boat laws in this section.
WISCONSIN BOATING LAWS AND REGULATIONS
Make sure you are up to date with Wisconsin boat laws and regulations before operating a boat on the state waterways. Each state has different rules about topics such as boating education, operator age, boat noise, titling, boating under the influence and safety equipment.
IT’S NOT A FEE, IT’S A CONTRIBUTION
When you apply for your boat registration (or WI boat license), you will be required to pay a registration fee. Boat registration fees help fund efforts to preserve our natural resources through activities such as lake clean-up, public boat ramp maintenance and other conservation initiatives.
WISCONSIN BOAT REGISTRATION INFORMATION
- You can register or renew your boat online, through a licensed agent, by mail, or at any Department of Natural Resources office.
- All motorboats must be registered except sailboats (12 ft. or less) not equipped with a motor or sailboards, or manually propelled vessels that are not equipped with a motor or sail.
- Your WI boat license gives you the opportunity to take advantage of some of the best fishing spots that are not accessible by land. Respect these privileges by abiding by state rules and regulations at all times.
WI BOATING LAWS & REGULATIONS
Wisconsin has its own set of boating rules to protect the waterways and keep everyone who uses them safe.
WI BOATING LAWS & REGULATIONSRESPONSIBLE BOATING STARTS WITH YOU
Learn how to take care of your crew and your boat, while also taking care of our valuable water resources.
BOATING AND WATER SAFETY BOATING SAFETY COURSES ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENTWI BOATING RESOURCES/INFO
Additional resources and information can be found directly on the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources site.
ORDINANCES & WATERWAY MARKERS REGISTER YOUR BOAT IN WISCONSIN