How Much Does It Cost to Register a Boat in North Dakota?
In North Dakota, boat registration is handled by the North Dakota Game & Fish Department and renews every 3 years. The fee is based on boat length — from $30 for the smallest class up to $60 for the largest per cycle. 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.
Cost by boat size
| Boat | Per year | One-time (title etc.) |
|---|---|---|
| 14-ft motorboat | $10.00 | — |
| 20-ft motorboat | $15.00 | — |
| 28-ft motorboat | $20.00 | — |
| Kayak/canoe (no motor) | Free — exempt from registration | |
- Fees rose for the 2026–2028 cycle ($30/$45/$60); a $15 aquatic nuisance species fee is added per cycle.
- All ND registrations expire together Dec 31, 2028 — fees prorate monthly mid-cycle.
- North Dakota does not title watercraft; canoe/kayak registration is optional ($30 if elected).
Estimate your exact North Dakota cost
Your boat
- Registration fee (by length)$45 per 3-year cycle$45.00
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.
All figures computed from official fee schedules — sources: https://www.dot.nd.gov/sites/www/files/documents/Motor%20Vehicle%20Services/mvd-2-passenger-fee-2026.pdf — last reviewed 2026-07-16.