Quick answer
In Illinois, registration is required for: All vessels powered by a motor or sail, including those with trolling motors. Registration is handled by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), is valid for 3 years, and costs $18.00 to $210.00 before any purchase tax or local add-ons.
Official source: Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) · Last checked in site data: June 23, 2026 · All official state agencies
Vessel Types & Exemptions
In Illinois, registration is required for: All vessels powered by a motor or sail, including those with trolling motors. There are 2 categories of exempt vessels.
Registration is required for: All vessels powered by a motor or sail, including those with trolling motors
Exempt from registration:
- Unpowered watercraft (canoes, kayaks, paddleboards)
- Vessels with valid out-of-state registration temporarily in Illinois
Registration Fees & Costs
Illinois boat registration fees range from $18.00 to $210.00 depending on vessel length and type. The state applies a 6.25% sales tax, and title fees are $0.00.
| Vessel Class | Reg. Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|
| New Title & Reg (< 16 ft) | $38.00 | $38.00 |
| New Title & Reg (16–25 ft) | $60.00 | $60.00 |
| New Title & Reg (26–39 ft) | $160.00 | $160.00 |
| New Title & Reg (40+ ft) | $210.00 | $210.00 |
| Renewal (< 16 ft) | $18.00 | $18.00 |
| Renewal (16–25 ft) | $50.00 | $50.00 |
Sales Tax Rate: 6.25%
Title Fee: $0.00
How to Register Your Boat in Illinois
To register a boat in Illinois, you must apply within Before operating on public waters of purchase through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Online registration is available. Registration is valid for 3 years.
Registration can be completed:
- Online: Through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) portal
- In Person: At your local Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) office
- By Mail: Download forms from the official website
Required Documents
- Completed registration application form
- Bill of Sale or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO)
- Valid photo identification
- Proof of sales tax payment
- Hull Identification Number (HIN) verification
Illinois Boat Title & Title Transfer
Illinois requires a boat title for all registered watercraft over 21 feet in length (optional for boats under 22 ft). The title application fee is $0.00, and transfers cost $0.00.
Title required: Yes — All registered watercraft over 21 feet in length (optional for boats under 22 ft)
Title application fee: $0.00
Title transfer fee: $0.00
Required Documents for Title Transfer
- Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (new vessels)
- Previous title (used vessels)
- Bill of Sale
- Applicable tax forms (ST-556, RUT-75, or RUT-25)
For a detailed guide on the title transfer process, see our Boat Title Transfer Guide.
Buying or Selling a Boat in Illinois
If you are selling a boat in Illinois, give the buyer a signed bill of sale, current registration records, and any title or ownership documents required by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). If you are buying, do not rely on the seller's word alone: match the Hull Identification Number (HIN) on the paperwork to the boat and confirm whether liens or title defects exist before paying.
| Transfer item | What to prepare in IL |
|---|---|
| Seller | Signed bill of sale, current registration, and release of interest. Sign the existing title exactly as the owner name appears. |
| Buyer | Photo ID, application, payment for registration fees, tax if due, and proof of ownership. Verify the HIN before filing. |
| Title | Required for all registered watercraft over 21 feet in length (optional for boats under 22 ft); title transfer fee is $0.00. |
| Tax | 6.25% sales or use tax may apply. |
For buyer and seller paperwork, use the boat bill of sale template, check how to look for liens, and compare boat title transfer fees by state.
Illinois Boat Registration Renewal
Validity period: 3 years
Illinois boat registration renewal follows the same agency channel as initial registration. Online renewal or online registration services are listed as available in current IL state data. Renew before the expiration date to avoid operating with expired registration.
For more details, see our Boat Registration Renewal Guide.
Boater Safety Education Requirements
Illinois requires a boater safety course. Anyone born on or after January 1, 1998, operating a powered watercraft of 10+ HP must possess a Boater Safety Certificate. The minimum age to operate a vessel is 10.
Required: Yes
Who must complete it: Anyone born on or after January 1, 1998, operating a powered watercraft of 10+ HP must possess a Boater Safety Certificate
Accepted courses: IDNR-approved courses (online and in-person)
Course cost: Varies by provider
Minimum age to operate: 10 years old
Registration Number Display Rules
Number format: IL 1234 AB
Minimum font height: 3 inches minimum
Font style: Block letters, contrasting color to hull
Placement: Both sides of bow, forward half
Sticker placement: Within 6 inches of registration number
For federal rules on registration number display, see our Number Display Rules Guide.
How Illinois Compares to Neighboring States
Illinois Boat Registration FAQ
How much does it cost to register a boat in Illinois?
Do I need a title for my boat in Illinois?
Is boater education required in Illinois?
Can I register my boat online in Illinois?
Can non-residents operate boats in Illinois?
What sales tax applies to boats in Illinois?
Start Your Registration
Ready to register your boat in Illinois? Visit the official Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) website or use our tools to estimate costs.
Related Resources
This information is provided for reference purposes only. While we strive to keep data accurate and verified for 2026, registration requirements and fees may change. Contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) at 217-782-2965 for the most current information.