Move a Boat and Trailer to Wisconsin

An out-of-state registration remains valid only while the boat has been in Wisconsin no more than 60 consecutive days and Wisconsin is not its state of principal use. Apply immediately when Wisconsin becomes the state of principal use, even if 60 days have not elapsed. A relocating owner who will mainly use the boat in Wisconsin should not treat visitor reciprocity as a mover grace period.

A registrable boat at least 16 feet long needs a Wisconsin title unless it is federally documented or otherwise exempt. Submit the original signed title when the former state titles boats; submit the former registration card when it does not. Include any required lien release. Boats under 16 feet are title-exempt.

Verify the HIN and any inboard-engine serial number and attest that they match the application. Wisconsin DNR assigns a state HIN when the required number is missing, altered, or invalid. Although Wisconsin law provides for inspection of titled boats purchased outside the state, the public application does not direct every incoming owner to schedule a universal inspection.

Register every motorized boat, including one powered only by an electric trolling motor, and every sailboat longer than 12 feet. Nonmotorized boats and sailboats 12 feet or shorter are exempt. Apply through GoWild or with Form 9400-193. An online application can produce a 60-day temporary operating receipt; a direct mail applicant must wait for the registration and decals unless an authorized dealer submitted the application.