Do you have to register your non-motorized recreational kayak in the U.S. Pacific Northwest states of Oregon, Washington, and Idaho? Learn about current state laws so you can responsibly and legally enjoy your recreational flat water kayaking experience.

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What is a kayak?

A kayak is a non-motorized watercraft with a slim body and tapered ends that are propelled with a double-bladed paddle.

There are five different types of flatwater kayaks, including recreational, touring, inflatable, pedaling, sit-in, and sit-on-tops. Each kayak type has its own advantages and disadvantages, and is suited to different activities.

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Do you need a kayak permit in Oregon?

To operate a kayak longer than ten feet in Oregon, you are required to obtain a Waterway Access Permit, which is available through the ODFWs eLicensing system.

Permits come in three purchasing options, which include:

1 Week - $7, including the transaction fee. This permit is valid for seven consecutive days of the purchaser's choice.
1 Calendar Year - $17 + an additional $1.50 portal provider fee. This permit expires on December 31st of the year it is purchased.
2 Calendar Years - $30 + an additional $1.50 portal provider fee. This permit expired on December 31st of the year after it was purchased.

Boaters can also purchase one and two-year permits from the Marine Board's Boat Oregon Store, but one-week permits are only available from the eLicensing system.

Kayaking without a permit in the state of Oregon is a Class D violation and incurs a $115 fine, so be sure to obtain your permit before hitting the water!

Do you need a kayak permit in Washington?

You do not need a permit to operate a non-motorized kayak in the state of Washington since they are considered manual paddle vessels and are exempt from registration.

While a permit is not required, there are laws that kayakers are required to follow.

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These Washington laws include the following:

All kayakers must have one wearable USCG-approved PFD/ lifejacket per person onboard the vessel at all times.
When visibility is low, kayakers must carry a displayable electric torch or white lantern.
Every kayak must have a sounding device on board.
When operating at night in federal waters, all kayaks are required to have a VDS.
All registered kayaks must have a title through the Washington State Licensing Department.

Do you need a kayak permit in Idaho?

All manually propelled kayaks do not require a registration or permit in the state of Idaho.

While there are no state-specific minimum age requirements, there are county laws in place for operating non-motorized vessels, so it's important to check your local ordinances before paddling out.

Additional Idaho kayaking laws include the following:

Every kayak must contain one life jacket per person, with those fourteen and under wearing them on all vessels under nineteen feet long.
All kayaks must carry a night signaling device and a U.S. Coast Guard-approved VDS device on federally controlled waters.
Sounding devices are not required, but a whistle is recommended.