by Joni Moe
WisDOT Bureau of Aeronautics
If you registered an aircraft in Wisconsin in the past 15 years, you did it through the Department of Transportation’s Division of Motor Vehicles. In April of this year, aircraft registration returned to the department’s Bureau of Aeronautics. If you are a Wisconsin aircraft owner, don’t expect to see any major changes. The registration process and requirements remain the same. However, I’d like to take this opportunity to answer some of the most frequently asked questions.
How do I register? Submit a completed and signed application, along with a copy of the bill of sale and check made payable to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation for the total amount due for registration fees and taxes. The application and additional information can be found online at http://dot.wi.gov/travel/air/aircraft-reg.htm. Mail the completed forms and payment to: Wisconsin Department of Transportation, P. O. Box 7914, Madison, WI 53707-7914
Who is required to register? If your aircraft is based in Wisconsin for a period of 30 consecutive days, or for a cumulative period of 60 days in a calendar year, you must apply for Wisconsin registration or exemption. Wisconsin registration is required even if you already registered your aircraft in another state.
How are registration fees determined? Registration fees are determined by the gross weight at take off.
What if I buy an aircraft already registered in Wisconsin? Upon sale of an aircraft currently registered in Wisconsin, the registration is transferable to the new owner. Please contact us to complete the transfer.
Can I register my aircraft as an antique? Aircraft manufactured in 1955 or earlier, and used solely for recreation or display, can be registered as an antique.
As always, if you change the “N” number, change address, or if the aircraft has been sold, destroyed or is no longer based in Wisconsin, please contact us at (608) 266-9657 or email: aircraft-registration@dot.wi.gov.
Tax-related questions should be directed to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue at (608) 261-7694.
