Except as provided in subdivision 2, a watercraft used on the waters of the state must have a certificate of title if the watercraft is kept in the state for more than 90 consecutive days.
The master of the boat must report to CBP telephonically and be directed to the nearest Port of Entry to satisfy the face-to-face requirement, or report to the nearest designated reporting location along with the boat's passengers for inspection.
If the vessel is a non-titled watercraft, a Boat Bill of Sale will be required. Complete the Watercraft Title and Registration Application with the seller (both parties must sign). If the vessel is a non-titled watercraft, the universal registration form should be completed.
Please complete an original Bill of Sale for a Boat and Trailer (PDF) between you and the seller. All signatures on the Bill of Sale for a Boat and Trailer must be live ink signatures, no copies. If the boat or watercraft is titled, please complete the buyer's portion of the title and bring that with you.
In Minnesota, starting July 1, 2025, anyone born on or after July 1, 2004, is required to take a boater education course and receive their watercraft operator's permit before operating a motorboat on Minnesota waters.
4. Title required for transfer. A person may not sell or otherwise transfer a titled watercraft without delivering to the person acquiring the watercraft a certificate of title with an assignment on it to show title in the person acquiring the watercraft.
Adults born on or after July 1, 2004, are required to have a watercraft operator's permit before operating a motorboat or a PWC on Minnesota waters.
If your new boat (except kayaks or canoes) is longer than 16', your dealer will apply for title and registration (license) on your behalf, and is responsible for providing you with license materials.
In Minnesota, starting July 1, 2025, anyone born on or after July 1, 2004, is required to take a boater education course and receive their watercraft operator's permit before operating a motorboat on Minnesota waters.
Minnesota requires residents to register all motorized vessels and any non-motorized vessel over 10 feet in length. Types of watercraft that are exempt from registration include: Non-motorized watercraft 10 feet in length or less.