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Frankfort Today
By the People, for the People
Kentucky Launches Online Boat Registration Renewal
New convenient option allows boaters to skip trip to county clerk's office.
Apr. 1, 2026 at 6:41pm
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The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has launched a new online boat registration renewal service, allowing boat owners to renew their registrations without having to visit their local county clerk's office. The new online option is part of the state's expanded Kentucky Automated Vehicle Information System (KAVIS) that was launched in 2024.
Why it matters
This new online renewal service provides a more convenient option for Kentucky's boat owners, who previously had to make an in-person trip to their county clerk to renew their boat registrations. The online renewal is part of the state's efforts to modernize its vehicle and vessel registration systems and give residents more self-service options.
The details
To renew their boat registration online, owners will need their Kentucky boat (KY) number and the vessel's title number. The boat registration must be active and expire this year to be eligible. Boat property taxes must also be paid at the time of renewal. Boat owners who prefer in-person service can still renew at their local county clerk's office.
- Boat registrations expire on April 30 each year.
- The new online renewal option launches on April 1, 2026.
The players
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet
The state agency responsible for transportation infrastructure and services, including vehicle and vessel registration.
Jim Gray
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary, who announced the launch of the new online boat registration renewal service.
Kentucky Automated Vehicle Information System (KAVIS)
The state's vehicle registration system that was launched in 2024, replacing the previous nearly 40-year-old mainframe system.
What they’re saying
“We're excited to give Kentucky boat owners even more choices this spring to spend less time in an office and more time enjoying the open waters.”
— Jim Gray, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary
What’s next
Boat owners are encouraged to renew their registrations in April to avoid any late fees on property taxes.
The takeaway
This new online boat registration renewal service is part of Kentucky's broader efforts to modernize its vehicle and vessel registration systems and provide more convenient self-service options for residents. It reflects the state's commitment to improving the customer experience for boat owners.
