Our boat
registration summary contains a quick overview of boat titling, registration, loan
perfection, and operational requirements for the State of
Wisconsin. More detailed information, forms, guidelines, and a complete
listing of resources are obtainable by downloading a
Boat Registration Kit
for this state.
You will also find an extensive listing of generic state level boat registration,
boat trailer, and general purpose forms on our Forms Page .
Please visit our
State Page for additional
articles and information regarding state level boat registration, titling,
and operational requirements.
The information presented here is subject to change and should be
confirmed with the respective state agency.
State numbering.
The boat
registration number prefix for Wisconsin is "WS".
Title certificate.
Titles are
issued to all registered boats over 15' except for those which
are Coast Guard documented.
Registration certificate.
All boats are subject to registration except sailboats 12 feet and under without a motor,
and manually propelled boats not equipped with a motor or
sail. Coast guard documented vessels are subject to registration
unless used for commercial fishing.
Sales &
use tax.
Sales tax
applies to boat transactions.
Loan perfection.
Security
interests are recorded on the state's title records for
non-documented boats. A preferred vessel mortgage is required
for Coast Guard documented vessels.
Registration agency.
Wisconsin
Department of Natural Resources
Boat record search.
The
Department of Natural Resources will verify hull numbers and
certificates in hand over the telephone. Detailed reports must
be obtained from a public boat record provider.
Ownership designations.
All owners
must release on a title with the "AND" designation.
Any owner can release with an
"OR" designation.
Residency requirements.
Titles are
available to non-residents if the boat is located within the
state.
Hull number inspection.
Required if
there is a discrepancy.
Outboard motors.
Title and
registration certificates are not issued to outboard motors.
Notary
public.
Notaries are
commissioned for 4 years, must post a $500 bond, and must use an
embossed or inked stamp seal.
Dealer & broker licensing.
Licensing is
required.
Visitation period.
60 days.
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It is our mission to provide the absolute best in professional maritime
services and we are constantly striving
to improve our awareness of your vessel documentation, vessel titling,
and vessel transaction needs.
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