Do you need a permit for your kayak? [Pacific Northwest]
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.
This website may contain affiliate links meaning if you purchase through my link, I’ll receive a small commission at no cost to you.
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.
Do you need a kayak permit in Oregon?
To operate a kayak longer than 10 feet in Oregon, you are required to obtain a Waterway Access Permit, which is available through the ODFWs eLicensing system. You can do this online quickly and easily!
Permits come in three purchasing options, which include:
1 Week - $7, including the transaction fee. This permit is valid for 7 consecutive days of the purchaser's choice.
1 Calendar Year - $19. This permit expires on December 31st of the year it is purchased. (This is updated information for 2024, as I just needed to buy an annual permit for a multi-day kayaking trip in Central Oregon).
2 Calendar Years - $31.50. This permit expired on December 31st of the year after it was purchased.
These fees above include a $1.50 online service fee. 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.
2024 permits can be printed out and put in your kayaking dry bag, or take a screenshot on your phone to show if you need to.
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!
When I was out kayaking last week, the Sheriff did come by and check permits randomly in our large group of paddlers.
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.
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.
More top viewed Flatwater Kayak Club resource articles:
Learn to how to choose the best kayak for you
Kayak racks: what buyers need to know
Mega list of nature quotes for your next social media post
Canoe vs kayak: differences, pros & cons
Everything you need to know about flatwater kayaking