Iowa — There are pros and cons when it comes to how boats are registered in Iowa.
On the “pro” side — you only have to register your boat every three years, as the registration stickers are good for that long. On the “con” side — since you only have to register every three years, registering your boat may be more difficult to remember. This year — 2025 — is a boat registration year.
Boat registrations are handled by Iowa’s county recorders. Boat owners should bring their current registration to recorder’s office in the county where the individual resides when they renew.
Nonresidents who register their boat in Iowa will go to the county where the boat is primarily used.
Owners who purchased a boat from a private seller and are registering it in their name should bring the signed registration and make sure the title is signed over to them, if applicable.
The fees go to support water trails, navigation enforcement, aquatic invasive species, boater education and safety, and the registration system.
You can renew your vessels and personal watercraft in your county recorder’s office any time before the April 30th, 2025 deadline. There is a two-month grace period for the $5 penalty. You will not incur the $5 penalty per vessel until July 1st, 2025, however, you cannot use your vessel after April 30th without having first renewed.
