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Back To: Hardin County | Your Government | Recorder | Recreational Vehicle Registration | Boat Registration

Boat Registration

Boat Registration
Department Recorder
Internal Department No content items.

Transferring a Boat

Items needed when transferring a boat:

  • Bill of Sale (PDF)
  • Most recent registration (signature of seller required on backside of registration)
  • Title, if applicable (signature of seller required on backside of title)
  • Proof sales tax has been paid, if applicable
  • Application for Registration, Title and Security Interest

Boat Registration Exceptions

The following craft do not need to be registered:

  • Canoes (no motor) 13 feet or less in length
  • Inflatable vessels 7 feet in length or less
  • Kayaks 13 feet or less in length

State Sales Tax Information

Sales of boats and other watercraft in Iowa are subject to the state sales tax of 6% plus local option taxes, if any. This applies to sales by Individuals, as well as dealers.

Anyone purchasing a boat from an individual should obtain a receipt that shows the cost of the boat. The buyer will then pay the sales tax on the cost of the boat to the County Recorder.

If a trailer is purchased with the boat, the 5% motor vehicle use tax is paid to the County Treasurer.

Department of Natural Resources Boat Fees

Fee Type
Amount
Transfer $3.75
Duplicate Registration
$3.75
Duplicate Decals
$3.75
Title $12.75
Lien $12.75
Late Fee
$5

FAQs

When I buy a canoe or kayak longer than 13 feet from Bass Pro Shop (or another establishment), what paperwork do I bring to the Recorder to register it?

You should bring:

  • The receipt
  • Manufacturer’s Statement
  • 12-digit manufacturer number off of vessel
  • Your driver’s license

Contact Us

Recorder Office

Physical Address

1215 Edgington Avenue, Suite 4
Eldora, IA 50627

Email
Directions

Phone: 641-939-8178

Fax: 641-939-8245

Hours

Monday - Friday
08:00 AM - 04:30 PM

Staff

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Lori Kadner

Recorder and Registrar of Vital Statistics

Email

Phone : (641) 939-8178

Cheryl Lawrence

Deputy Recorder

Email

Phone : (641) 939-8178

Laura Isenhower

Administrative Assistant

Email

Phone : (641) 939-8178