How to apply for a new PWC registration license
If you apply for a new boat registration or renew an existing one in person at a deputy registrar (any- place you get your auto license) or the DNR License Center, you will receive your boat license decal and registration card on the spot. If you apply through the mail, it will probably take several weeks before you receive your decal and card. Sign your license and keep it on board when you use it. If you are operating a non-motorized canoe, kayak, rowing shell, paddle boat, sailboard or sailboat you don’t have to carry the license with you. However, if an enforcement officer asks to see it, you must produce it within a reasonable time. The owner of rented watercraft may keep the license certificate at the place the boat is rented from. The name of the rental business must be printed on both sides of the rear half of the watercraft in letters at least three inches high. The number issued to your boat appears on the license.
Except for non-motorized canoes, kayaks, rowing shells, paddle boats, sailboards and sailboats, this number must be displayed on the forward half of the hull on each side of the craft (see illustration on page 6 ). The letters and numerals must be at least three inches high, of a block character, and contrast with the background. They can be painted or attached to the craft. They should read from left to right and must always be legible. Before applying decals or numbers on the wa- tercraft, make sure the surface is free of dirt, grease, water, oil and wax. When you place your number on your boat, leave a 2 to 3 inch space – or provide a hyphen – between the MN and the four-digit number.
Leave another 2 to 3 inch space or hyphen between the number and the two letters which fol- low. Place the validation decal to the stern or rear of the license number within four inches of the license number. Remember, only the current decal must be visible. Remove the expired decals first, before applying the new ones.
No other number, letter, or design may appear within 24 inches of the license number or decal. The license number issued to your craft appears on the decal and on the card. If your canoe, kayak, rowing shell, paddle boat, sailboard or sailboat doesn’t have a motor, place the decal on each side of the forward half of the craft. No three-inch numbers are necessary (see illustration below).On sailboards and non-motorized sailboats, you may also place the decals on the stern if it is impossible, because of the boat’s design, to place them on the bow.
