How to Register a Boat or Water Craft in Idaho
Most new boats must be registered through the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation before they can be sailed.
VESSELS THAT REQUIRE REGISTRATION
- Any powerboat
- Sailboats
VESSELS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE REGISTRATION
- Boats registered in another state and not being used in Idaho for more than 60 days.
- Float tubes.
- Any boat that is propelled only by oars or paddles.
- Surfboards or sailboards.
- Boats registered with the U.S. Coast Guard.
TO REGISTER IN PERSON
- You can register a boat in person by visiting your local boat registration vendor or a county assessor's office, or the Office of the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR).
- You must bring proof of ownership such as a bill of sale, invoice, bill of lading, certificate of origin, or out-of-state title. IDPR can be reached at 208-514-2475 for more information.
FEES
Boat registration fees range from $2 to upwards of $20, depending on the size of the vessel. See here for a more detailed breakdown of the registration fees. In addition, vessels registered in Idaho are subject to a vendor fee.ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Both the vessel registration number and validation sticker must be clearly displayed on the vessel, according to Idaho requirements.



