How to Register a Boat

Minnesota guidelines obligate any motor-propelled vessel or boat over 10 feet long to be registered with official channels in-state. Acceptable exceptions to this requirement are either if the boat is non-motorized and 10 feet or under in length or if the boat is currently registered in another state or country and is to be used in Minnesota for fewer than 90 days.  In addition to these exemptions, other individual cases that exclude the need for registration are as follows: Seaplanes, lifeboats, federally-owned vessels, and boats used solely for duck hunting.

Obtaining a certificate of title for a vessel may be possible and is mandated for most boats over 16 feet long. This stipulation is mandatory for the same classification of boats above that require registration and additionally excludes:

• Vessels constructed before August 1, 1979.
• Rowboats are equipped with oar-locks and a motor with 40 horsepower or less.
• Boats retained by a dealer to be sold or by a manufacturer held primarily for test use.
• Boats without a title from the previous state or country in which it was it was registered.

To ensure legitimate registration, visit your local Minnesota Deputy Registrar of Motor Vehicles with the following paperwork ready in hand:

• A filled Minnesota Watercraft Title and Registration Application.
• Evidence of ownership through a satisfactory:
  • A Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MCO).
  • A bill of sale.
  • A signed-over title.
  • The prior registration.
• Evidence of an active vessel insurance policy.
• Proof of payment of Minnesota sales tax.
• A valid photo identification.
• A form of compensation for all fees and taxes required for registration and/or title.

Alternatively, if you wish to send the above materials instead of appearing in person, you can mail the paperwork to the following address for submission:

DNR License Center
500 Lafayette Road
St. Paul, MN 55155