PWC & Jet Ski Registration
Colorado PWC & Jet Ski
Registration 2026
Everything you need to register a personal watercraft in Colorado - fees, minimum operator age, boater education requirements, and official agency links. Colorado Parks & Wildlife requires annual registration for all PWC. Colorado's mountain reservoirs and rivers are popular PWC destinations. Both boater education and aquatic invasive species stickers are required alongside PWC registration.
1-Year Registration Period
Minimum Age: 16
Boater Ed Required
2026 PWC Registration Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Registration Fee
$35.00
Motorboats including PWC: $35 annually
Reg. Period
1yr
Annual renewal required
Minimum Operator Age
16
years old (solo operation)
Boater Ed?
Required
Course required before operating
Step-by-Step
How to Register a PWC or Jet Ski in Colorado
All personal watercraft in Colorado must be registered with Colorado Parks & Wildlife. Here is the standard registration process:
1
Gather Required Documents
You will need the manufacturer's certificate of origin (for new PWC) or the current title/registration (for used), a valid photo ID, and payment for registration fees. If the PWC was previously registered in another state, bring those documents as well.
2
Complete Registration Application
Submit your application to Colorado Parks & Wildlife online, by mail, or in person at an authorized license agent. PWC registration in Colorado is processed identically to motorboat registration. Register online →
3
Pay Registration Fees
Registration fees are $35.00 for 1 year(s). Motorboats including PWC: $35 annually
4
Display Registration Numbers & Sticker
Affix your registration number on both sides of the bow in block characters at least 3 inches high. The validation sticker must be displayed near the registration number. Carry your registration certificate on board at all times while operating.
Safety Education
Take the Official Colorado Boater Ed Course
Colorado PWC Boater Education Requirements
Boater Education is Required
Colorado requires boater education certification to operate a PWC.
Complete an approved boater education course before operating any personal watercraft in Colorado
Carry your boater education card on board while operating
Online courses available - typically completeable in one day
Requirements
Colorado PWC Requirements
PWC operators born after January 1, 1979 must have a boater safety certificate. Minimum age to operate is 16. AIS sticker also required.
Important Notes
Colorado-Specific Rules
AIS sticker also required — purchase separately.
Source: Colorado Parks & Wildlife (cpw.state.co.us).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current fees and rules directly with the agency before operating.