Boat Registration and Licenses

What to Register

• All boats used within the state, unless exempt.

Exemptions

• Sailboards.

• Lifeboats used exclusively as lifeboats.

• Boats currently licensed in another state being used in Illinois for no longer that 60 consecutive days.

• Other boats exempted by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Requirements and Procedures

All newly purchased boats must be registered within 15 days of the sale. To do so, follow this procedure:

1. Complete a registration application (available through the DNR or most boat dealers).
2. Locate the Manufacturer's Certification of Origin (new boats only).
3. Find the previous owner's registration and title (used boats only).
4. Determine your sales tax by calling (800) 732-8866 or (217) 782-3336 (if you haven't already paid it, make the check payable to Illinois Department of Revenue).
5. Include proof of sales tax payment (if you have already paid it).
6. Bring your registration fee. Make the check payable to Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
7. Take the required documentation and fees, stick them in an envelope, and mail everything to:
   
   • Watercraft
   • Illinois Department of Natural Resources
   • P.O. Box 19226
   • Springfield, IL 62794-9226
   
   
8. In return, you'll receive your registration, title, and registration decals.
9. In the meantime, you can use your copy of the application as a 120-day, temporary permit.

Call (800) 382-1696 with any registration questions.

Fees

Registration fees are determined by the length of the boat, as follows:

• Class A (all canoes and kayaks used commercially): $13

• Class 1 (all other watercraft less than 16'): $22

• Class 2 (16' to less than 26'): $52

• Class 3 (26' to less than 40'): $82

• Class 4 (40' and longer): $107

Renewals and Replacements

Registrations are valid for three years. To renew your registration, simply renew online or by phone:

Renew Online

1. Go to the renewal site.
2. Enter your registration and Hull ID numbers.
3. Follow the rest of the instructions.
4. Pay your renewal fee.

Renew by Phone

Renew your registration at any time by calling (866) 867-3542 on your touch-tone phone, and following the instructions given. Be sure to:

1. Have your registration information handy.
2. Record your renewal confirmation number.
3. Pay your fee using your Visa, MasterCard, or Discover Card.

A $4 convenience fee will be applied to your transaction.

You should receive your renewal material within three weeks.

Renewal Fees

• Class A (all canoes and kayaks used commercially): $6

• Class 1 (all other watercraft less than 16'): $15

• Class 2 (16' to less than 26'): $45

• Class 3 (26' to less than 40'): $75

• Class 4 (40' and longer): $100

Replace a Lost Registration

To receive a duplicate registration:

1. Get an application form.
2. Fill in the appropriate sections.
3. Mail it along with the $5 fee to:

• Watercraft

• Illinois Department of Natural Resources

• P.O. Box 19226

• Springfield, IL 62794-9226

Boating License

Illinois offers a Boating Education Certificate of Competency to those who complete an approved safety education course. The course is mandatory for those between 12 and 17 who want to operate a motorboat without direct adult supervision.

Boating Safety Courses

Approved safety courses contain at least eight hours of instruction. Boaters of all ages are encouraged to complete a course. It will further their boating safety education. Visit the DNR Safety Education page for more information.

Safety courses are available in the classroom and online. Ask the provider if the course is approved by the DNR.