Any person engaging in the business of operating a boat or boats carrying passengers for hire, or renting a boat or boats for hire must first obtain a license from the Department.
In Illinois, while boat insurance is not mandated by state law, many boaters opt for coverage to avoid out-of-pocket expenses in case of loss or damage. This approach is often supported by lenders and marinas, which may require boat insurance to secure loans or grant docking privileges.
All watercraft other than non-powered watercraft operated on the waters within the jurisdiction of Illinois shall be registered. All registered watercraft over 21 ft. in length are required to be titled.
Persons twelve (12) and over, passing the course by completing the minimum eight (8) hours of instruction, passing the written exam, and displaying the necessary skills to boat independently will receive an Illinois Boating Safety Certificate.
The vessel must display the boat number and expiration decal as stated below Both port and starboard sides of the bow must display the registration number. Registration number must read from left to right on both port and starboard sides of the bow. Number must be in at least three inch high BLOCK letters.
All watercraft other than non-powered watercraft operated on the waters within the jurisdiction of Illinois shall be registered. All registered watercraft over 21 ft. in length are required to be titled.
Registrations expire every 3 years on September 30th. Copies of titles/registrations are not acceptable; the original must be sent. Submittal of documentation does not guarantee an approved application.
Do you need a Boating License in Illinois? Any person born on or after January 1, 1998, operating a vessel powered by a motor of more than 10 hp is required by law to pass a boater safety course and to carry a boater education card.
In Illinois, while boat insurance is not mandated by state law, many boaters opt for coverage to avoid out-of-pocket expenses in case of loss or damage. This approach is often supported by lenders and marinas, which may require boat insurance to secure loans or grant docking privileges.