Kentucky Boat Registration Fee Calculator
In Kentucky, boat registration is handled by the county clerk (fees set by KY Fish & Wildlife) and renews annually. The fee is based on boat length — from $31 for the smallest class up to $75 for the largest per year. Non-motorized craft like kayaks and canoes are generally exempt (check local rules for sailboats). Boats with motors — including trolling motors on otherwise unpowered craft — almost always require registration.
Your boat
- Registration fee (by length)$50.00
- Title fee$9.00
Estimate only — actual fees are set by your state and county at the time of registration. Data last reviewed 2026-07-16. This state's full local formula is not yet implemented; see the notes below the calculator.
Good to know
- Fees rose with the January 2026 CPI adjustment and will re-adjust every two years.
- Trolling-motor-only craft pay $20; inboards/I-Os pay $53. County ad valorem property tax on the boat is collected at renewal.
What determines boat registration cost in Kentucky?
- Boat length (fee tiers)
- Motorized vs. non-motorized
- New registration vs. renewal (title/transfer fees apply once)
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to register a kayak or canoe in Kentucky?
Generally no — unpowered craft are exempt in Kentucky. But the moment you mount any motor, including an electric trolling motor, registration is required.
How often do I renew a boat registration in Kentucky?
Annually.
More Kentucky calculators
Boat Registration calculators for other states
Sources: https://fw.ky.gov/News/Pages/Kentucky-Fish-and-Wildlife-to-implement-biennial-fee-adjustments-using-CPI-national-economic-indicator.aspx — data last reviewed 2026-07-16.