How to Register a Boat

To use a motorized vessel within the state of Illinois, it must be registered and titled by the state. Specific cases that would not be obligated to complete registration would include boats with current registration from another state or country, granted the boat is utilized for less than 60 consecutive days. In addition, other exceptions to this rule are lifeboats, government-owned vessels, or any watercraft not set in motion by a sail or motor.

Once a purchase of a new or used vessel has concluded, the buyer has 15 days to register the boat with the state. To properly register a watercraft, it is necessary to prepare the following forms and paperwork to be delivered by mail to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources as follows:

• A filled-out and endorsed Illinois Watercraft Registration and Title Application.
• A finalized bill of sale.
• Sufficient evidence of vessel possession, such as the Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO) or prior registration and title of the boat.
• If the watercraft had a previous claim or lien on the title, you will need both a letter stating a full release of the lien and an Illinois Watercraft Registration and Titling Power of Attorney Form.
• One check for all associated sales taxes (made payable to the “Department of Natural Resources”) as well as a separate check (made payable to the “Illinois Department of Revenue”) for fees required for registration.
  • You can obtain the exact amount by phone at 1-(800)732-8866 or  1(217)782-3336 to inquire.
• Include both checks with the rest of the prepared materials and send them to the following address: