Boating in Kentucky
Registration, titles, boater education and taxes, from Kentucky county clerks (registration/title); Dept of Fish & Wildlife Resources (education) and other official sources.
| Registering agency | Kentucky county clerks (registration/title); Dept of Fish & Wildlife Resources (education) |
| Registration fees | <16 ft $22.20; 16-26 $42.28; 26-40 $52.85; >40 $68.71 |
| Renewal | annual |
| Title | yes (titled via county clerk; motor not titled separately) |
| Boater education | operators aged 12-17 of boats of 10 hp or more; 12-17; NASBLA-approved courses: Yes |
| Sales/use tax | 6% state (KRS 139.200) -- sales/use tax at first KY registration for out-of-state purchases unless paid/exempt (KRS 139.778) |
| Property tax | yes |
| Forms | Official forms |
Sources
- fw.ky.gov
- drive.ky.gov
- apps.legislature.ky.gov
- revenue.ky.gov
- transportation.ky.gov
- apps.legislature.ky.gov
Checked 2026-10-24. Rules change; confirm with the agency.
Places in Kentucky
Upcoming boat shows
Dated shows in Kentucky from the official Discover Boating calendar and each show’s organizer site. Confirm dates on the organizer page before you travel. Boat show shopping guide
- Louisville Boat, RV, & Sportshow — January 27-31, 2027 (Louisville)
Registration, titling and documentation guide · Boater education by state
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