If one has a PWC and trailer but has no documentation (title, etc), how do you go about registering it? The jetski was formerly used on a private lake, but was sold without any of the documentation. The former owner cannot find the paperwork.

This is in the state of Illinois.

Can't speak for Illinois, but I know of several other states that would make you: 1. Apply for certificate of title, 2. Secure a bond equal to the value of the article, 3. After a year with no challenges, you would get to drop the bond and would receive clear title.

That said, why not go to the state records and get the seller to get a replacement title, then have him tranfer it to you? Of course, you should have a bill of sale first.