Wisconsin Snowmobile Title Transfer
Wisconsin requires a formal title for snowmobiles. Here is everything you need to transfer ownership correctly — agency, forms, fees, and trail permit requirements.
Title Required
Wisconsin requires a title for all snowmobiles operated on public lands and trails.
Title Fee
$15
Title fee collected at time of registration application.
Registration Fee
$30/year
Annual registration required. Trail pass is separate.
Processing Time
3–5 weeks
Title certificates are mailed after processing.
Trail Permit
Required (Separate)
Wisconsin Snowmobile Trail Conditions Report system requires annual trail pass for groomed trail access.
Registration Agency
WI DNR
Wisconsin DNR handles all snowmobile titles and registrations — not the DOT.
Visit Wisconsin DNR — Snowmobile Registration →Required Documents
- 1Signed title or manufacturer's certificate of origin (MCO)
- 2Bill of sale
- 3Completed DNR Form 9400-038
- 4Payment for fees
Dealer sales include the MCO which serves as the initial title document.
Age Exemption
Pre-1971 snowmobiles
Snowmobiles manufactured before the 1971 model year are exempt from Wisconsin title requirements.
Wisconsin Note
Wisconsin has over 175,000 registered snowmobiles and 25,000+ miles of groomed trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Wisconsin require a title for snowmobiles?
Yes — Wisconsin requires a title for snowmobiles. Wisconsin requires a title for all snowmobiles operated on public lands and trails.
Which agency handles snowmobile titles in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin DNR handles all snowmobile titles and registrations — not the DOT.
What documents do I need to transfer a snowmobile title in Wisconsin?
To transfer a snowmobile title in Wisconsin, you typically need: Signed title or manufacturer's certificate of origin (MCO), Bill of sale, Completed DNR Form 9400-038, Payment for fees. Dealer sales include the MCO which serves as the initial title document.
Are old snowmobiles exempt from title requirements in Wisconsin?
Pre-1971 snowmobiles: Snowmobiles manufactured before the 1971 model year are exempt from Wisconsin title requirements.