North Dakota Boat Registration Requirements

Oh, the open water of North Dakota! There's nothing quite like the feeling of gliding across the calm surface of Lake Sakakawea at dawn or navigating the mighty Missouri River, ready for a day of fishing. But before you even think about dropping a line, there’s that little hurdle of paperwork – specifically, getting your boat properly registered. It can feel like a maze, trying to figure out what applies to your specific watercraft and where to even begin. This guide is here to untangle all those knots, making North Dakota boat registration requirements as clear as a calm morning on the water.

Understanding North Dakota Boat Registration Requirements

Let's be real, no one enjoys dealing with bureaucracy. But when it comes to boat registration in North Dakota, it's not just about jumping through hoops; it's about ensuring safety on our precious waterways and contributing to the conservation efforts that keep our fishing vibrant. For many anglers, the thought of navigating another set of rules after figuring out their fishing license can be daunting, but understanding these requirements is crucial for a smooth season on the water.

Why Boat Registration Matters for North Dakota Anglers

Think of your boat registration as your vessel's official ID. Just like you need a driver's license to operate a car, your boat needs a registration to legally operate on North Dakota's public waters. This isn't just some arbitrary rule; it's a fundamental aspect of maritime safety, law enforcement, and environmental protection. For starters, it helps emergency services identify vessels and owners in case of an accident or if a boat goes adrift. Imagine the peace of mind knowing that if something unexpected happens, your boat is identifiable.

Beyond safety, registration fees are a vital source of funding for the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. These funds directly support critical programs like fish stocking, habitat improvement projects, maintenance of public boat ramps and access sites, and aquatic nuisance species prevention. So, while you're filling out that form, remember you're contributing to the very health of the fisheries and access points that you enjoy. It’s an investment in the future of North Dakota fishing.

Common Frustrations with the Registration Process

We've all been there: staring at a form, unsure which box to tick, or wondering if we even have all the necessary documents. The process of registering a boat, especially for first-time owners or those new to the state, can feel surprisingly complex. One common frustration is the sheer volume of information to sift through, trying to differentiate between what applies to a small fishing boat versus a large pontoon. Then there's the specific jargon – titles, HINs, bills of sale – that can leave you scratching your head.

Another pain point often arises when you think you have everything in order, only to find out you're missing one crucial piece of paper, delaying your plans to get out on the lake. And for those who are used to streamlined online processes, the North Dakota system, while offering online options, can still present its own set of unique challenges in terms of clarity or navigating different portals. It’s enough to make you just want to throw your hands up and go fishing from shore! But trust me, once you understand the steps, it’s much less intimidating.

Who Needs to Register a Boat in North Dakota?

It might seem straightforward, but figuring out exactly which boats need to be registered can sometimes be a bit confusing. You see a kayak paddling by without numbers, then a small jon boat with them, and you start to wonder if your setup falls into the "must register" category. The general rule of thumb is quite encompassing, but there are indeed some exceptions.

Motorized Watercraft Rules

In North Dakota, if your watercraft has any kind of mechanical propulsion, it needs to be registered. Period. This means if you have an engine – whether it’s a powerful outboard on a bass boat, a small gasoline kicker on a canoe, or even an electric trolling motor – your vessel falls under the registration mandate. This rule applies to all public waters in the state, from the vast expanses of Lake Sakakawea to smaller community fishing ponds.

This often surprises people who have a small dinghy with just a tiny outboard or a kayak they plan to equip with an electric motor. The size of the engine doesn't matter; the mere presence of mechanical propulsion triggers the requirement. So, before you even consider launching, make sure your motorized vessel has its proper credentials.

Exemptions You Might Not Know About

Now for the good news: not every floating device needs a registration. North Dakota grants exemptions for certain types of watercraft that are primarily human-powered. This typically includes:

• Canoes: Classic paddling canoes are generally exempt.
• Kayaks: Your favorite fishing kayak or recreational kayak doesn't need to be registered, unless it has mechanical propulsion. For more details, you might be interested in our guide on whether or not you need to register a kayak in North Dakota.
• Paddleboards (SUPs): Stand-up paddleboards are also exempt.
• Rowboats and Inflatables: If propelled solely by oars, paddles, or sails, and not equipped with an engine, these are typically exempt.
• Sailboats: If they're 8 feet or less in length, they don't need to be registered. Larger sailboats do.
• Watercraft owned by the U.S. government or political subdivisions: These are usually exempt if used for official purposes.
• Watercraft from other states: If you're just visiting North Dakota and your boat is properly registered in another state, you generally don't need a North Dakota registration for a temporary stay. However, there are specific time limits, which we'll delve into later when discussing Registering an Out-of-State Boat in North Dakota.

It’s always a good idea to double-check the latest North Dakota Game and Fish Department regulations, as rules can sometimes be updated.

The Nuance of Trolling Motors

This is where a lot of folks get tripped up, and it's a common area for questions, especially among those who are trying to get into quiet, stealthy fishing. Many anglers assume that because a trolling motor is electric and relatively low-power, it might not count as "mechanical propulsion" in the same way a gas outboard does. Unfortunately, that assumption could lead to an unexpected conversation with a game warden.

In North Dakota, an electric trolling motor absolutely counts as mechanical propulsion. So, if you've strapped a battery-powered trolling motor to your canoe, kayak, john boat, or even an inflatable raft, that vessel is now considered a motorized watercraft and must be registered. It doesn't matter if it's your primary means of propulsion or just an auxiliary motor for subtle maneuvering; the rule is clear. This is a critical piece of information for many who enjoy the flexibility of a small electric motor, so make sure you're compliant before you hit the water.

The Step-by-Step Process for North Dakota Boat Registration

Alright, you've figured out your boat needs to be registered. Now, how do you actually get it done? It can feel like a big undertaking, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it much less intimidating. It's essentially a process of gathering your documents, applying, and then displaying your new registration. Think of it as preparing your tackle box – gathering all the right components before you head out.

Gathering Your Essential Documents

Before you even touch an application form, the most crucial first step is to gather all the necessary paperwork. This is where most people hit a snag, so getting it right from the start will save you a lot of headaches. You'll typically need:

• Proof of Ownership: This is paramount. For a new boat purchased from a dealer, you'll need the Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO) or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO). If you bought a used boat, a properly executed bill of sale from the previous owner is essential. This document should include the buyer's and seller's names and addresses, a description of the boat (make, model, year, Hull Identification Number or HIN), the purchase price, and the date of sale.
• North Dakota Sales Tax Permit: If the boat was purchased out of state and sales tax wasn't paid there, you might need to show proof of sales tax payment to North Dakota.
• Hull Identification Number (HIN): Every boat manufactured after 1972 should have a 12-digit HIN permanently affixed to the transom. This is like your boat's VIN and is critical for identification. If you have a homemade boat, you'll need to apply for a HIN through the Game and Fish Department.
• Personal Identification: You'll need valid identification, such as a driver's license, for the registration application.

Having these documents neatly organized before you begin will make the rest of the process much smoother. Missing even one piece can delay your registration, and nobody wants that when the fish are biting!

Where to Apply for Registration

Once your documents are in order, you have a few options for submitting your application, catering to different preferences and conveniences. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department handles all boat registrations.

• Online Application: For many, the easiest way to apply is online through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department's licensing and registration portal. This allows you to complete the forms, upload necessary documents, and pay fees from the comfort of your home. It’s generally the quickest way to get things moving.
• Mail: If you prefer the traditional route, you can download the application forms from the Game and Fish Department website, fill them out, and mail them along with your supporting documents and payment. Just remember to send copies of important documents and keep the originals safe.
• In-Person: For those who like direct interaction or need help with specific questions, you can visit the North Dakota Game and Fish Department office in Bismarck during business hours. This can be particularly helpful if you have a unique situation, such as a homemade boat or complex ownership transfer. Many local sporting goods stores and bait shops that sell hunting and fishing licenses might also be able to assist with boat registration, so it's worth checking with your local vendors.

No matter which method you choose, make sure to keep copies of everything you submit for your records. This includes your application, proof of payment, and copies of all supporting documents.

Receiving and Understanding Your Registration Certificate

After you've submitted your application and it's been processed, you'll receive your official North Dakota Boat Registration Certificate. This isn't just a piece of paper; it's your legal authorization to operate your boat on state waters. Typically, it will be a small, durable card or paper document that contains all the pertinent information about your vessel and its owner.

Your certificate will include:

• Your assigned North Dakota registration numbers.
• The expiration date of your registration.
• Your name and address.
• Details about your boat (make, model, HIN, length, etc.).

It is a legal requirement to carry this registration certificate onboard your vessel whenever it is in operation. This means having the physical document with you, not just a photo on your phone. Game wardens can and will ask to see it during routine checks on the water, similar to how a law enforcement officer would ask for your driver's license. Keep it in a waterproof bag or container to protect it from the elements, ensuring it remains legible and accessible. This certificate, along with your valid North Dakota Fishing License Guide, are your essential documents for a legal day out fishing.

Fees and Renewal for North Dakota Boat Registration

Let's talk money and timing – two things that often cause the most confusion. The cost of boat registration in North Dakota isn't a flat fee; it depends on the length of your boat. And just like any other registration, it needs to be renewed periodically. Understanding these costs and cycles upfront can save you from unexpected expenses or, worse, an expired registration while you're out on the lake.

Breaking Down the Registration Costs

North Dakota's boat registration fees are structured based on the overall length of your vessel. This tiered system means smaller boats will generally have lower fees than larger ones. The fees are typically for a three-year registration period, meaning you pay once every three years. These fees help fund the crucial work of the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, including aquatic enforcement, safety education, and access site maintenance.

In addition to the base registration fee, you'll also pay a mandatory Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) fee. This separate fee is incredibly important for protecting North Dakota's waters from invasive species like zebra mussels and quagga mussels. We'll dive into the ANS fee in more detail shortly, but for now, just know it's a non-negotiable part of your total registration cost. You can get a clearer picture of the specific amounts in our detailed article on the North Dakota Aquatic Nuisance Species Fee Amount.

Understanding the Renewal Cycle

North Dakota boat registrations are valid for a three-year period. This means you don't have to worry about renewing every single year, which is a nice perk, but it also means it's easy to forget when that three-year mark rolls around. The registration period runs from January 1st to December 31st of the third year. For instance, if you register your boat in April 2026, your registration would typically be valid through December 31, 2028.

It's highly advisable to mark your calendar or set a reminder for your renewal date. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department usually sends out renewal notices, but relying solely on these can be risky, especially if your address changes. Renewing on time ensures you avoid any penalties for operating an unregistered vessel. You can often renew online, which is a convenient way to keep your boat legal and ready for action. Keeping track of the North Dakota Boat Registration Renewal Period 2026 to 2028 is key.

North Dakota Boat Registration Fees by Size Table

To help you get a clear idea of what you might expect to pay, here's a general breakdown of the North Dakota boat registration fees based on length, along with the mandatory ANS fee. Remember, these figures are for a three-year registration period and are subject to change, so always check the official North Dakota Game and Fish Department website for the most current information. For even more detailed cost breakdowns, refer to our comprehensive guide on North Dakota Boat Registration Fees by Size.

Boat Length (Feet)	3-Year Registration Fee (Approx.)	Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Fee (Approx.)	Total (Approx.)
Less than 16	$30	$15	$45
16 to less than 20	$45	$15	$60
20 to less than 26	$60	$15	$75
26 to less than 40	$75	$15	$90
40 feet or more	$90	$15	$105

Note: These fees are approximate and subject to change. Always verify current fees with the North Dakota Game and Fish Department.

Special Considerations for Different Boat Types and Situations

Not every boat fits neatly into a single category, and not every boater is a lifelong North Dakota resident. There are unique situations and vessel types that require a bit more understanding when it comes to registration. Whether you’re moving to the state with your boat, building one from scratch, or operating a vessel for commercial purposes, these nuances are important to grasp.

Out-of-State Boat Registration in North Dakota

So, you’ve just moved to North Dakota, or maybe you’re a snowbird bringing your boat up for the summer. What happens then? North Dakota has what's often referred to as a "90-day rule" for out-of-state boats. If your boat is legally registered in another state and you're only visiting North Dakota for a period of less than 90 consecutive days, you typically do not need to register it in North Dakota. Your out-of-state registration will suffice. This is a common courtesy extended to visitors and helps promote tourism.

However, if you become a North Dakota resident, or if your boat will be operated in North Dakota for more than 90 consecutive days, you are required to register it with the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. This applies even if your out-of-state registration is still current. The intent here is to ensure that boats primarily used in North Dakota contribute to the state's conservation and safety programs. Failing to register after the 90-day period can lead to fines. Make sure you understand all the specifics by reading our dedicated article on Registering an Out-of-State Boat in North Dakota.

Registering Homemade or Custom-Built Boats

Building your own boat can be a incredibly rewarding experience, a true labor of love. But when it comes time to put that handcrafted vessel on the water, the registration process has a few extra steps. Since there's no Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO), the state needs a way to officially identify your unique creation.

For homemade boats, you'll need to apply for a Hull Identification Number (HIN) through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department. This typically involves submitting an application, providing detailed photographs of your vessel, and potentially undergoing an inspection by a Game and Fish representative. They'll verify that the boat meets safety standards and assign a unique HIN, which you'll then need to permanently affix to the boat's transom. Once you have an assigned HIN, the rest of the registration process largely follows the standard procedure. It's an extra layer of scrutiny, but it ensures accountability and safety for all watercraft on the state's lakes and rivers.

Boats Used for Commercial Purposes or Tournaments

If your boat isn't just for recreational fishing but is used for commercial purposes – perhaps as a guide boat, for commercial fishing, or even for charter tours – there might be additional licensing and permitting requirements beyond standard registration. For instance, if you're operating as a paid fishing guide, you'll need to meet specific North Dakota Fishing Guide Licensing Requirements Explained. These typically involve additional applications, fees, and sometimes even specific insurance requirements.

Similarly, if you're participating in or hosting fishing tournaments, there might be specific permits required for the event itself, even if your boat is already registered. These permits help the Game and Fish Department monitor fishing pressure, manage resources, and ensure fair play. Always check with the North Dakota Game and Fish Department or the tournament organizer well in advance to ensure all necessary paperwork and permits are in order. Ignoring these specific rules for commercial or tournament use can lead to significant penalties, potentially impacting your business or fishing reputation.

Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) and Your Boat Registration

You can’t talk about North Dakota boat registration without a deep dive into Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS). This isn't just another fee; it's a critical component of protecting North Dakota's incredible fishing resources. Invasive species pose a serious threat to the ecological balance of our lakes and rivers, and every boater plays a role in preventing their spread.

The Mandate of the ANS Sticker

As mentioned earlier, a mandatory Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) fee is included with your boat registration. Once paid, you'll receive an ANS decal or sticker that must be displayed on your boat. This sticker is a visual confirmation that you've contributed to the efforts to keep North Dakota's waters free from harmful invaders. But it's more than just a payment; it's a public commitment.

The funds generated from the ANS fee are dedicated exclusively to programs designed to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species like zebra mussels, quagga mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, and starry stonewort. These programs include boat inspection stations at popular ramps, public education campaigns, monitoring efforts to detect new infestations early, and rapid response initiatives when an invasive species is found. It's an investment in keeping our lakes healthy, our native fish thriving, and our fishing experiences enjoyable for generations to come. Without these efforts, North Dakota's pristine waters could face irreversible damage.

How to Prevent the Spread of ANS

Paying the fee and displaying the sticker is just the first step. The real work of preventing ANS spread falls to us, the boaters. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department promotes the simple, yet incredibly effective, "Clean, Drain, Dry" protocol:

• Clean: Before leaving any water body, inspect your boat, trailer, and all fishing gear for any visible aquatic plants, animals, or mud. This includes your anchor, ropes, fenders, and even your waders or fishing boots. Remove everything you find and dispose of it in a trash receptacle, not back into the water or onto the ground where it can be washed into another water body.
• Drain: Pull the drain plug and completely drain all water from your boat, including the bilge, livewells, baitwells, and any other compartments. This needs to happen before you leave the water access area. Make sure your motor is tilted down to allow all water to escape. Don’t forget to drain any portable bait buckets!
• Dry: The best way to kill any microscopic larvae or organisms that might still be clinging to your boat is to allow it to thoroughly dry. Ideally, this means drying your boat and trailer for at least five consecutive days before launching into a different water body. If you can’t dry it for that long, consider a high-pressure wash with hot water (140°F or hotter) to kill any hitchhikers.

By diligently following these steps every single time you move your boat between different lakes or rivers, you become a frontline defender against these environmental threats. It's a small effort with an enormous impact on preserving North Dakota's aquatic ecosystems.

Consequences of Non-Compliance with ANS Rules

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department takes the threat of Aquatic Nuisance Species incredibly seriously, and rightfully so. Non-compliance with ANS rules can lead to significant penalties. This isn't just about forgetting to display a sticker; it's about the potential for massive environmental damage.

Enforcement officers conduct inspections at boat ramps and on the water. If your boat is found to be non-compliant – for example, if you haven't drained your livewells or have visible aquatic vegetation attached to your trailer – you could face substantial fines. Beyond financial penalties, repeated violations or severe cases could lead to more serious legal consequences. In some instances, officers may even issue orders that prevent you from launching your boat until it has been properly decontaminated. They might also require you to appear in court. These aren't scare tactics; they're necessary measures to protect the natural resources that define North Dakota's outdoor lifestyle. Adhering to these rules is just as important as adhering to the North Dakota Fishing Regulations Explained.

Displaying Your Registration and Other On-Water Rules

Once you've gone through the process of getting your boat registered, the next step is making sure that registration is properly displayed and that you're aware of other essential rules for safe and legal operation. It's not enough to simply have the registration; it must be visible and accessible, along with key safety gear.

Proper Placement of Registration Numbers and Decals

This is a detail that many people get wrong, but it's crucial for quick identification by law enforcement. Your North Dakota boat registration numbers and validation decals must be displayed in a very specific way:

• Numbers: The assigned registration numbers (e.g., ND-1234-AB) must be painted on or permanently attached to both sides of the forward half of the boat. They must be in plain vertical block characters, at least three inches high, and in a color that contrasts sharply with the background of the boat. There must be a space or a hyphen separating the letters from the numbers (e.g., ND 1234 AB or ND-1234-AB).
• Decals: The validation decal you receive with your registration must be affixed to the forward half of the boat, generally placed within six inches of the registration numbers on both sides of the vessel. This decal shows the current expiration year.

Failing to display your numbers and decals correctly can lead to being stopped by a game warden and potentially issued a citation, even if your registration is otherwise valid. It's a quick visual check that helps officers ensure compliance from a distance.

Required Safety Equipment Onboard

Beyond registration, operating a boat in North Dakota comes with a mandate for specific safety equipment. These items aren't optional; they're required by law and are designed to protect you and your passengers in case of an emergency. Every boat, regardless of size, must carry:

• U.S. Coast Guard Approved Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): You must have at least one wearable PFD (life jacket) of the appropriate size for every person on board or being towed. Additionally, any boat 16 feet or longer (except canoes and kayaks) must also carry one throwable PFD (Type IV cushion or ring buoy). Children 10 years of age and younger are required to wear a PFD at all times when underway.
• Fire Extinguisher: Any boat with an enclosed engine compartment, permanent fuel tanks, or other combustible materials must carry a U.S. Coast Guard approved fire extinguisher.
• Sound Producing Device: All boats must have a way to make an efficient sound signal (e.g., a horn, whistle, or bell) audible for at least one-half mile.
• Navigation Lights: If operating between sunset and sunrise, or during periods of restricted visibility, your boat must display proper navigation lights (red/green sidelights and an all-around white light).
• Visual Distress Signals: While not always required for all recreational boats on inland waters, if you're venturing onto large bodies of water like Lake Sakakawea, having visual distress signals (flares or a distress flag) is a smart idea.

You can find many of these safety essentials on platforms like Amazon, making it easy to outfit your boat. Always check your equipment before each outing to ensure it's in good working order.

North Dakota Boat Title Requirements

Many boat owners get confused between registration and titling. While they're both about proving ownership and legality, they serve different functions. In North Dakota, all motorized boats must be titled. This applies even to boats that are exempt from registration (like an unregistered canoe that someone attaches a trolling motor to and then needs a title for). The only exemptions are non-motorized vessels and specific racing boats. Understanding the difference between a title and a registration is important, and you can find more specific details in our guide on the Difference Between Boat Registration and Boat Title in North Dakota.

The title is essentially a proof of legal ownership document, much like a car title. It's critical for buying, selling, or transferring ownership of a boat, and it proves who legally owns the vessel. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department also issues boat titles. You'll typically apply for the title at the same time you apply for initial registration. The title document itself doesn't need to be onboard your boat, but you should keep it in a safe place, like with other important personal documents, as you would your car title. For comprehensive information, our North Dakota Watercraft Title Requirements article covers everything you need to know.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Nobody wants to find themselves on the wrong side of the law, especially when you're just trying to enjoy a peaceful day of fishing. But ignorance of the law is no excuse, and operating a boat without proper registration or in violation of other rules can lead to uncomfortable encounters and costly penalties. Understanding these consequences is a strong motivator for ensuring you're always compliant.

Penalties for Operating an Unregistered Boat

Operating an unregistered boat on North Dakota's public waters is a violation of state law. If a North Dakota Game and Fish Department enforcement officer discovers you're operating a non-compliant vessel, you can expect to be issued a citation. The penalties for operating an unregistered boat typically involve:

• Fines: These can vary depending on the specific circumstances, but they are generally significant enough to make you wish you had just registered the boat in the first place. Fines can range from a couple of hundred dollars to more, sometimes escalating for repeat offenses.
• Court Appearance: In some cases, especially for more serious or repeated violations, you might be required to appear in court. This means taking time off work and potentially incurring additional court fees.
• Impoundment: While less common for a first-time registration offense, a game warden has the authority to impound your vessel until proper registration is obtained or until the issue is resolved. This is a major inconvenience, costly, and will definitely ruin your day on the water.

These penalties are in place to ensure fair play and to fund the very resources we all enjoy. It's a lot easier and cheaper to simply follow the rules from the outset.

Common Registration Mistakes to Avoid

Many violations aren't malicious; they're simply the result of oversight or a lack of understanding. Here are some of the most common registration mistakes North Dakota boaters make and how to avoid them:

• Expired Registration: This is arguably the most frequent mistake. The three-year renewal cycle can be easy to forget. Set a reminder on your phone or mark your calendar well in advance of the expiration date to ensure you renew on time.
• Improper Display of Numbers/Decals: As discussed, the specific size, color, and placement of your registration numbers and decals are mandated. Sloppy or incorrect display can still lead to a citation. Take the time to apply them correctly and ensure they are always clean and legible.
• Not Carrying the Certificate: Forgetting to physically carry your registration certificate on board is a common slip-up. Keep it in a waterproof bag or container with your other essential documents. A picture on your phone isn't considered legal proof.
• Assuming Exemptions: Believing your small motorized boat or kayak with an electric trolling motor is exempt when it's not. If it has any mechanical propulsion, it needs to be registered.
• Out-of-State Overstays: Exceeding the 90-day grace period for out-of-state boats without registering in North Dakota. If you're becoming a resident or staying long-term, plan to register.

Avoiding these common pitfalls will help ensure your time on North Dakota's beautiful waters is stress-free and enjoyable.

The Importance of Staying Up-to-Date on Regulations

Boating and fishing regulations, like all laws, are not static. They can change over time due to new legislative mandates, evolving conservation needs, or updated safety standards. What was true a few years ago might not be true today. This is why it's incredibly important for all North Dakota boaters to make a habit of reviewing the current regulations annually.

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department publishes an updated "North Dakota Fishing Guide" or "Proclamation" each year, which includes all current fishing and boating regulations. This resource is available online, and often in print at bait shops and Game and Fish offices. Taking a few minutes to skim through it at the beginning of each season can save you from inadvertently violating a new rule. Staying informed not only keeps you compliant but also makes you a more responsible and knowledgeable steward of North Dakota's precious natural resources.

---

Disclaimer

The information provided in this guide is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, regulations are subject to change. Always consult the official North Dakota Game and Fish Department website or contact them directly for the most current and authoritative information regarding boat registration requirements, fees, and regulations.