How Much Does It Cost to Register a Boat in West Virginia?
In West Virginia, boat registration is handled by the West Virginia DMV and renews every 3 years. The fee is based on boat length — from $30 for the smallest class up to $75 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 | $15.00 |
| 20-ft motorboat | $15.00 | $15.00 |
| 28-ft motorboat | $20.00 | $15.00 |
| Kayak/canoe (no motor) | Free — exempt from registration | |
- Fees cover a full 3-year cycle (prorated if you enter mid-cycle) — effectively $10–$25 per year.
- Boats under 3 hp pay no fee; non-motorized craft don't register.
Estimate your exact West Virginia cost
Your boat
Registration due now
$45.00
Covers 3 years — averages $15.00 per year.
Each renewal (3 years)
- Registration fee (by length)$45 per 3-year cycle$45.00
One-time fees (first registration)
- Title fee$15.00
One-time total: $15.00
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://transportation.wv.gov/dmv/ — last reviewed 2026-07-16.