PWC & Jet Ski Registration
North Dakota PWC & Jet Ski
Registration 2026
Everything you need to register a personal watercraft in North Dakota - fees, minimum operator age, boater education requirements, and official agency links. North Dakota requires annual PWC registration through the Game & Fish Department. Devils Lake, Lake Sakakawea, and the Missouri River corridor support PWC activity during the summer season. Boater education requirements reflect the state's commitment to waterway safety.
1-Year Registration Period
Minimum Age: 14
Boater Ed Required
2026 PWC Registration Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Registration Fee
$22.00
Motorcraft Class 1 including PWC: $22 annually
Reg. Period
1yr
Annual renewal required
Minimum Operator Age
14
years old (solo operation)
Boater Ed?
Required
Course required before operating
Step-by-Step
How to Register a PWC or Jet Ski in North Dakota
All personal watercraft in North Dakota must be registered with North Dakota Game & Fish Department. 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 North Dakota Game & Fish Department online, by mail, or in person at an authorized license agent. PWC registration in North Dakota is processed identically to motorboat registration. Register online →
3
Pay Registration Fees
Registration fees are $22.00 for 1 year(s). Motorcraft Class 1 including PWC: $22 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 North Dakota Boater Ed Course
North Dakota PWC Boater Education Requirements
Boater Education is Required
North Dakota requires boater education certification to operate a PWC.
Complete an approved boater education course before operating any personal watercraft in North Dakota
Carry your boater education card on board while operating
Online courses available - typically completeable in one day
Requirements
North Dakota PWC Requirements
North Dakota requires PWC operators born after December 31, 1988 to complete a safety course. Operators 14–15 may operate with completed boater education.
Source: North Dakota Game & Fish Department (gf.nd.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current fees and rules directly with the agency before operating.