Register Boat and Boat Trailer in Iowa
Register Boat and Boat Trailer in Iowa: You must register most sailboats, motorboats, and other vessels on state waters every three years with the county recorder’s office. This includes personal watercraft such as Jet Skis. However, there are exceptions for the following:
- Inflatable vessels less than seven feet long.
- Canoes and kayaks that are 13 feet or less in length and have no motor or sail.
- A ship’s lifeboat.
- Public boats used for search-and-rescue missions.
- Out-of-state vessels using Iowa waters for less than 60 days.
You must paint, decal or otherwise affix the registration number to the forward half of each side of the vessel. You cannot display any other numbers on either side of the bow. The number must read from left to right, be in at least three-inch-high, bold, block letters, and must be in a color that contrasts with its background. A space or hyphen must separate the letters from the numbers. You must also affix the registration decals to each side of the vessel, toward the stern of the registration number, four inches from and in line with the number.
For information on registering boat trailers in Iowa, please contact your county treasurer’s office.
Please note: Boater education is mandatory for any person between the ages of 12 and 17 who will operate a personal watercraft or a motorboat over 10 horsepower. Individuals under 12 years of age may operate a motor-propelled vessel of more than 10 horsepower, including a personal watercraft, only if a person who is at least 18 years old and experienced in operating the vessel accompanies him or her onboard.
