Frequently Asked Questions

Yes.

No, you must have the original in your possession. If you are operating a sailboat or canoe without a motor or a commercial vessel, you are not required to have the registration in the boat.

Yes, your boat will only need to be registered if it is being used on public water.

Yes, the registration must be signed on the back by the current owner. (Owner's name on front of registration.)

Yes, a paddle boat must be registered if it is going to be used on public water at any length.

Yes, you will be required to have a habitat stamp until you reach the age of 65.

It isn’t required but it is generally a good idea to get boat insurance.

No, boat trailers are licensed in the Keokuk County Treasurer's Office.

Age 65

No, if your boat was purchased out of state and it is titled, you only need a bill of sale and the title signed by the last registered owner.

No, if the boat has a HIN or registration number the DNR can search to see if the last owner can be located so they can be notified. If there is no registration number, all unidentified or unclaimed abandoned boats should be reported to the county sheriff or police department.

You can use your boat in Iowa for 60 non-consecutive days if your boat is registered in another state. If your boat is not registered in your home state, you must register in Iowa before using your boat on public water.

No, inflatable canoes and kayaks are only registered if they over 13 ft in length.

December 15.