Vessel Types & Exemptions
In North Dakota, all motorized watercraft on north dakota waters. There are 2 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorized watercraft on North Dakota waters
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized vessels
- Vessels from another state for up to 90 consecutive days (ANS sticker required)
Registration Fees & Costs
North Dakota boat registration fees range from $45.00 to $75.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 5% sales tax, and title fees are $0.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| < 16 ft / motorized canoe (3-yr) | $30.00 | $45.00 |
| 16–19 ft (3-yr) | $45.00 | $60.00 |
| 20+ ft (3-yr) | $60.00 | $75.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 5%
Title Fee: $0.00
How to Register Your Boat in North Dakota
To register a boat in North Dakota, you must apply within Before operating on public waters of purchase through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 3 years (2026-2028 cycle).
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department portal
- In Person: At your local North Dakota Game and Fish Department office
- By Mail: Download forms from the official website
Required Documents
- Completed registration application form
- Bill of Sale or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO)
- Valid photo identification
- Proof of sales tax payment
- Hull Identification Number (HIN) verification
Title & Title Transfer
North Dakota does not require a separate boat title — registration serves as proof of ownership. The title application fee is $0.00, and transfers cost $0.00.
Title required: No — North Dakota does not title boats; registration card or bill of sale serves as proof of ownership
Title application fee: $0.00
Title transfer fee: $0.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Bill of Sale
- Previous registration card
- Valid photo ID
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Registration Renewal
Validity period: 3 years (2026-2028 cycle)
Renewal is available through the same channels as initial registration — online (if available), in person, or by mail. Be sure to renew before your registration expires to avoid late fees.
For more details, see our Boat Registration Renewal Guide.
Boater Safety Education Requirements
North Dakota requires a boater safety course. Youth aged 12-15 operating a motorboat or PWC of 10+ HP without an adult (18+) on board must complete a Boat North Dakota course. The minimum age to operate a vessel is 12.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: Youth aged 12-15 operating a motorboat or PWC of 10+ HP without an adult (18+) on board must complete a Boat North Dakota course
Accepted courses: ND Game and Fish 'Boat North Dakota' course (online or free home-study manual)
Course cost: Free home-study or paid online options
Minimum age to operate: 12 years old
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: ND 1234 AB
Minimum font height: 3 inches minimum
Font style: Block letters, contrasting color to hull
Placement: Both sides of bow, forward half
Sticker placement: Within 6 inches of registration number
For federal rules on registration number display, see our Number Display Rules Guide.
How North Dakota Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $45.00 | 3 years (2026-2028 cycle) | No | 5% |
| Minnesota | $42.10 | 3 calendar years | Yes | 6.875% |
| Montana | $65.50 | Permanent (one-time fee; no validation decals required starting 2025) | Yes | 0% |
| South Dakota | $18.00 | 1 year | Yes | 4.5% |
North Dakota Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in North Dakota?
Does North Dakota require boat titles?
Is boater education required in North Dakota?
What is the ANS sticker requirement in North Dakota?
Can non-residents operate boats in North Dakota?
When does the current registration cycle expire?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in North Dakota? Visit the official North Dakota Game and Fish Department website or use our tools to estimate costs.
Related Resources
This information is provided for reference purposes only. While we strive to keep data accurate and verified for 2026, registration requirements and fees may change. Contact the North Dakota Game and Fish Department at 701-328-6300 for the most current information.