Illinois State Boating Laws

 

 

State of Illinois Question

State of Illinois Answer

1

At what minimum age may you operate a motorboat alone?

12 Years of age, if you have passed a boat safety course

2

At what age may a person who has not taken a boating safety course operate a motorboat alone

18 Years of age

3

At what age may a person who has not taken a safety course operate a motorboat when accompanied by a parent or guardian

At least 10 years of age and less than 18years of age

4

At what speed should a motorboat travel in waters marked as “No Wake” areas?

No Wake

5

When using a PWC to pull a person on water-skis, how many people must be in the PWC

The operator and another competent person.

6

At what time of day is it legal to water-ski

One half hour before sunrise to one half hour after sunset.

7

How many personal floatation devices (PFD’S) must be on board while operating a boat?

One approved type l, ll, or lll for each person plus one throw able if your boat is 16 feet in length or longer.

8

When is a fire extinguisher required equipment on a boat?

All motorboats

9

When is a sound signaling device required equipment on a boat?

All motorboats

10

When a motorboat approaches a boat under sail or being rowed, what must the skipper do?

Give the other boat the right-of-way.

11

How should a battery be equipped in a boat?

Batteries should be suitably secured to prevent shifting and equipped with a non-conductive shield to prevent shorting of the battery terminals.

12

When must a boat under sail or oars yield the right-of-way?

When they overtake a motorboat

13

When is it necessary to file a boating accident report when there is property damage?

Report when damage is $2000 or more. Operator must file report within 5 days.

14

When should a boating accident report be filed when an accident results in the death or serious injury of a person?

A report must be made to the department within 48 hours, by the operator.

15

What boats must be registered?

All watercraft on Illinois waters must be registered and titled.

16

What agency of the State registers watercraft?

Illinois Department of Natural Resources- Watercraft.

17

When must a certificate of numbers be available for inspection?

Must be carried on board whenever the boat is operated.

18

How should expiration decals be displayed?

On the bow to the right of the registration numbers.

19

How long may an out-of-state boat operate on Illinois waters without applying for Illinois registration?

No more than 60 days.

20

Is it lawful to operate a watercraft while under the influence of alcohol or any other drug?

No person can operate a watercraft under the influence of alcohol or drugs if rendered incapable of safe operation.