RegistryFee

Minnesota Boat Registration Fee Calculator

In Minnesota, boat registration is handled by the Minnesota DNR and renews every 3 years. The fee is based on boat length — from $67 for the smallest class up to $277 for the largest per cycle. Unpowered craft such as kayaks, canoes, and sailboats must also register. Boats with motors — including trolling motors on otherwise unpowered craft — almost always require registration.

Your boat

Registration due now
$93.99
Covers 3 years — averages $31.33 per year.
Each renewal (3 years)
  • Registration fee (by length)
    $94 per 3-year cycle
    $93.99
One-time fees (first registration)
  • Title fee
    $22.00
One-time total: $22.00

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

  • All-in renewal totals (base fee + tiered AIS surcharge + issuing fee) under the December 2023 restructure — fees rose 35–70%. PWCs run about $116 per cycle.
  • Watercraft over 10 ft must register, including canoes/kayaks (about $54 all-in per 3 years). Boats over 16 ft are titled.

What determines boat registration cost in Minnesota?

  • Boat length (fee tiers)
  • Motorized vs. non-motorized
  • 3-year registration cycle
  • New registration vs. renewal (title/transfer fees apply once)

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to register a kayak or canoe in Minnesota?

Yes — Minnesota requires registration of unpowered craft as well. Adding any motor, including an electric trolling motor, always triggers the requirement.

How often do I renew a boat registration in Minnesota?

Every 3 years — the fee shown covers the full 3-year period.

More Minnesota calculators

Boat Registration calculators for other states

Sources: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/licenses/watercraft/index.html — data last reviewed 2026-07-16.