Washington Boat Registration Fee Calculator
In Washington, boat registration is handled by the Washington DOL (county auditors/subagents) and renews annually. The fee is a flat $33 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$33.00
- Title fee$5.00
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
- Itemized: $10.50 registration + $6 derelict-vessel/invasive-species fees + filing and service fees (raised January 2026) — about $33 all-in at a subagent.
- Plus the watercraft excise tax: 0.5% of fair market value annually ($5 minimum). Human-powered craft are exempt; boats 16 ft+ must register.
What determines boat registration cost in Washington?
- Flat fee regardless of size
- 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 Washington?
Generally no — unpowered craft are exempt in Washington. But the moment you mount any motor, including an electric trolling motor, registration is required.
How often do I renew a boat registration in Washington?
Annually.
More Washington calculators
Boat Registration calculators for other states
Sources: https://dol.wa.gov/vehicles-and-boats/boats/register-boat — data last reviewed 2026-07-16.