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Vessel Licensing

Boats belonging to Washington residents are required to have valid Washington registration on their vessels prior to operation on Washington waters.
Any vessel under 16 feet that is only sail or human powered is not required to be registered or titled.
The state registration year is July 1 through June 30.

Click here for the licensing desk location and hours.
The Vehicle & Vessel Licensing Desk is closed on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays.

 

How to Register & Title

Non-residents may operate an out-of-state registered vessel, may remain on Washington waters from 61 days to six months (in any 12 month period) under a special permit. Speak with your local Washington License Agent about requirements and fees.

You may register at any county auditor’s office or a local vehicle licensing sub-agency.

Documents required depend on the purchase date of the vessel.

The signatures of all registered owners will be required to be notarized.

If your boat is homemade, or has been acquired by lease or gift, and the most recent purchase price is not known, you will be asked to complete a declaration of value.

 

More specific information is available on the following topics:

Register Your Boat

Renew Your Boat Registration

Report the Sale of a Boat