Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Wyoming, all motorized watercraft operated on wyoming waters. There are 2 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All motorized watercraft operated on Wyoming waters
Exempt from registration:
- Non-motorized vessels (must still display AIS decal)
- Non-residents with valid home-state registration (must purchase AIS decal)
Registration Fees & Costs
Wyoming boat registration fees range from $40.00 to $110.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 4% sales tax, and title fees are $15.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| 1-year registration + AIS | $30.00 | $40.00 |
| 3-year registration + AIS | $80.00 | $110.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 4%
Title Fee: $15.00
How to Register Your Boat in Wyoming
To register a boat in Wyoming, you must apply within Before operating on public waters of purchase through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD). Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 1 year or 3 years.
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) portal
- In Person: At your local Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) office
- By Mail: Download forms from the official website
Required Documents
- Completed registration application form
- Bill of Sale or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO)
- Valid photo identification
- Proof of sales tax payment
- Hull Identification Number (HIN) verification
Title & Title Transfer
Wyoming requires a boat title for all watercraft registered in wyoming require a county-issued title with proof of paid wy sales tax. The title application fee is $15.00, and transfers cost $15.00.
Title required: Yes — All watercraft registered in Wyoming require a county-issued title with proof of paid WY sales tax
Title application fee: $15.00
Title transfer fee: $15.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Wyoming Certificate of Title in applicant's name (correct HIN)
- Previous title or out-of-state registration (transfers)
- Bill of Sale
- Proof of paid WY sales tax
- Valid photo ID
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Registration Renewal
Validity period: 1 year or 3 years
Renewal is available through the same channels as initial registration — online (if available), in person, or by mail. Be sure to renew before your registration expires to avoid late fees.
For more details, see our Boat Registration Renewal Guide.
Boater Safety Education Requirements
Wyoming does not require a boater safety course for boat operators. The minimum age to operate a vessel is 16.
Required: No
Who must complete it: Wyoming does not mandate boater education. WGFD strongly recommends completing a safety course. Operators of motorized watercraft must be at least 16 to operate alone; under 16 must be with an adult (18+).
Accepted courses: NASBLA-approved online providers, WGFD courses
Course cost: Varies by provider
Minimum age to operate: 16 years old
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: WY 1234 AB
Minimum font height: 3 inches minimum
Font style: Block letters, contrasting color to hull
Placement: Both sides of bow, forward half
Sticker placement: Within 6 inches of registration number
For federal rules on registration number display, see our Number Display Rules Guide.
How Wyoming Compares to Neighboring States
| State | Min. Fee | Validity | Title Req. | Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wyoming | $40.00 | 1 year or 3 years | Yes | 4% |
| Colorado | $60.25 | 1 year (January 1 – December 31) | No | 2.9% |
| Idaho | $41.50 | 1 year (expires December 31) | Yes | 6% |
| Montana | $65.50 | Permanent (one-time fee; no validation decals required starting 2025) | Yes | 0% |
| Nebraska | $32.00 | 3 years | Yes | 5.5% |
| South Dakota | $18.00 | 1 year | Yes | 4.5% |
| Utah | $45.50 | 1 year (annual renewal) | Yes | 6.1% |
Wyoming Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Wyoming?
Do I need a title for my boat in Wyoming?
Is boater education required in Wyoming?
What are the AIS inspection requirements?
Can non-residents operate boats in Wyoming?
Are there new commercial boat fees for 2026?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Wyoming? Visit the official Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) website or use our tools to estimate costs.
Related Resources
This information is provided for reference purposes only. While we strive to keep data accurate and verified for 2026, registration requirements and fees may change. Contact the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) at 307-777-4600 for the most current information.