In Washington, most vessels must be properly registered and titled to legally go out on the water, from personal watercraft to motorized boats. Whether you’re an angler or a floater, make sure your boat is ready to safely and legally hit the Washington waters.
Here’s everything you need to know about boat registration in Washington.
How Do I Know if My Boat Needs to Be Registered?
In the State of Washington, most boats require a title, a registration card, and registration decals to be legally navigated, operated, employed, or moored.
So, before taking your boat out for the first time, make sure it meets these requirements — or you’ll risk facing penalties.
What Boats Are Exempt From Boat Registration and Titling in Washington?
All boats that go out on Washington waters must be registered and titled with the Washington Department of Licensing, with these exceptions:
- Human-powered vessels, like canoes, kayaks, or other vessels (with no motor)
- Boats less than 16 feet with a motor of 10 horsepower or less that is never operated on federal waters
- Boats owned and operated by a resident of another state or country, as long as they’re only used on Washington waters for 60 days or less
- Military vessels, public vessels of the United States or American Red Cross, and vessels owned by a state, county, or city used for governmental purposes
- Vessels registered in another state for up to 60 days
How Do I Register and Title My Boat in the State of Washington?
In Washington State, you must register and title your boat within 60 days of moving to Washington or 15 days if you’re already a Washington resident.
To title and register your boat, you’ll complete the application and present the required documents and fees to go through the process. You’ll need the following:
- A completed, signed, and notarized Vessel Title Application
- Proof of ownership (Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin, current out-of-state registration, out-of-state title, or another option approved by the Washington Department of Licensing)
- Proof of sales tax paid on the boat
- A check or money order made payable to the Department of Licensing
You can submit your application in person at your local vehicle and boat licensing office, or you can submit your application materials by mail to any vehicle and boat licensing office. In Washington State, registration must be renewed annually.
How Much Does Washington Boat Registration and Titling Cost?
The fees for titling and registering your boat in Washington State can be estimated here, and some of the following fees are required, depending on your vessel. For more details, visit the Washington State Legislature website.
These fees are effective until January 1, 2029.
| FEE | AMOUNT | AUTHORITY |
| Temporary permit (Dealer) | $5.00 | RCW 88.02.800(2) |
| Removal surcharge (derelict vessel) | $1.00 | Subsection (4) of this section |
| Duplicate certificate of title | $1.25 | RCW 88.02.530(1)(c) |
| Duplicate registration | $1.25 | RCW 88.02.590(1)(c) |
| Quick title service | $50.00 | RCW 88.02.540(3) |
| Registration | $10.50 | RCW 88.02.560(2) |
| Replacement decal | $1.25 | RCW 88.02.595(1)(c) |
| Title application | $5.00 | RCW 88.02.515 |
| Transfer | $1.00 | RCW 88.02.560(7) |
| Permit (vessel visitor) | $30.00 | RCW 88.02.610(3) |
For more details, visit the Washington State Legislature website
How Do I Transfer Boat Ownership to My New Boat?
In Washington, state law requires that the seller tell the Department of Licensing within five days of the sale by completing and mailing the Vessel Report of Sale or reporting the sale online.
To transfer boat ownership in Washington, you’ll need proof of sale, proof of ownership, a Vessel Title Application, and a Vessel Data/Use Tax form. Contact your local vehicle and boat licensing office to verify your steps and follow their directions for submitting your transfer.
Will I Need to Take a Boater Safety Education Course?
Washington State requires every boater operating a personal watercraft or boat powered by a 15 hp motor or more to obtain a Boater Education Card.
To get your Boater Education Card, you’ll complete a course like BOATsmart!’s, which is action and info-packed, perfect for all skill levels, and designed to engage and educate boaters. With BOATsmart!, you can take your boating safety course on your own time — and trust that you’ll pass the Washington Boating Safety Test.
What Else Do I Need to Know About Boat Registration in Washington?
If you own a boat, you must display your boat registration numbers on both sides of your bow. The numbers must be in block numbers at least three inches high.
Register Your Boat and Boat Safely in Washington State!
Most boats must be registered and titled in Washington State, so keep up with the necessary rules and regulations to stay legal, safe, and covered on Washington waters. There’s nothing as fun as a boat day on the lake — especially one where you’re safe, registered, and happy.
So, use BOATsmart! as your boating safety friend, and have fun!
Originally published in September 2021. Content most recently reviewed and updated August 19, 2024.
