So You Want to Be a Captain (Without Getting Arrested): How to Get Your Boat Legal in Illinois
Ah, the allure of the open water! The gentle breeze in your hair, the sun on your face...until you get pulled over by the lake patrol and they ask to see your "boat license" (it's called a registration, my friend, but we'll get to that). Don't let that be you! Here's how to transform your trusty vessel from a bathtub-mobile into a legitimate Illinois watercraft.
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| How To Get A Boat Legal In Illinois |
First Things First: You Need the Paperwork, Captain!
No boat is complete without its official bragging rights, otherwise known as registration and title. This process is pretty straightforward, but there can be some twists and turns depending on where you got your boat.
Brand Spankin' New Boat: Just bought that shiny new bass buster? Congratulations! Head online to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (https://dnr.illinois.gov/boating/howtoregister.html) and fill out the Watercraft Registration/Title Application. Don't forget to surrender your Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO), that fancy piece of paper that basically says "this boat is mine."
Previously Owned Boat (In Illinois): If you bought a gently used boat from a fellow Illinoisan, you'll need the original title and registration card (assuming it has a title) from the previous owner. They'll also need to sign the title over to you.
Out-of-State Boat: Did you find the deal of the century in Kentucky? Great! However, you'll need to surrender the original registration card and title (if titled) from the previous out-of-state owner. Illinois might also require you to jump through a few extra hoops, so contact the Illinois Department of Revenue at (800) 732-8866 before submitting your application.
Important Note: You have 15 days to register your boat after you purchase it. The application process can take up to 12 weeks, but don't fret! You can still operate your boat for 60 days from the application date with a copy of your application on board.
Don't Be a Maroon (Like the Color, Not the Boat): Boating Education Might Be Required
If you were born after January 1, 1988 and your boat has a motor with 10 horsepower or more, then you'll need to complete a boating education course. This isn't rocket surgery, but it'll teach you the essentials of safe boating, like how to avoid becoming a human reef for unsuspecting catfish. You can take the course online or in-person.
QuickTip: Re-reading helps retention.
Bonus Tip: If you're taking a minor (between 10-17 years old) boating with you, and they're the one at the helm (with your permission, of course), then you (or whoever is supervising them) will also need to have a boating education certificate.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions for the Aspiring Illinois Captain
How to Register My Out-of-State Boat in Illinois?
Contact the Illinois Department of Revenue at (800) 732-8866 before submitting your application. They'll give you specific instructions on what you need to do.
QuickTip: Reflect before moving to the next part.
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How Long Does it Take to Get My Boat Registration?
The application process can take up to 12 weeks, but you can operate your boat for 60 days from the application date with a copy of your application on board.
Do I Need a Boating Education Course?
Tip: Summarize the post in one sentence.
If you were born after January 1, 1988 and your boat has a motor with 10 horsepower or more, then yes, you'll need to complete a boating education course.
How Much Does it Cost to Register My Boat in Illinois?
The fees vary depending on the length of your boat. Check the Illinois DNR website for a fee chart.
QuickTip: Treat each section as a mini-guide.
Where Can I Find a Boating Education Course?
You can find information on boating education courses by calling 1-800-832-2599 or checking online.
Now that you're armed with this knowledge, you're ready to set sail (or motor, or paddle, depending on your boat) with confidence! Just remember, boat safety is no joke. Always follow the rules, be courteous to other boaters, and most importantly, have fun!
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