How Much Does It Cost to Register a Boat in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, boat registration is handled by the Wisconsin DNR and renews every 3 years. The fee is based on boat length — from $22 for the smallest class up to $100 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 | $7.33 | $5.00 |
| 20-ft motorboat | $10.67 | $5.00 |
| 28-ft motorboat | $20.00 | $5.00 |
| Kayak/canoe (no motor) | Free — exempt from registration | |
- Non-motorized sailboats register for $17 per 3 years; canoes/kayaks are exempt.
- The DNR boat title is $5 — don't confuse it with the $214.50 motor-vehicle title fee.
Estimate your exact Wisconsin cost
Your boat
- Registration fee (by length)$32 per 3-year cycle$32.01
- 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.
All figures computed from official fee schedules — sources: https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/vehicles/title-plates/fee-chart.aspx — last reviewed 2026-07-16.