Need a Boating License or Jet Ski License?
Boating Safety Certification Explained

Why do I need a boating license or boating safety certification card?

Most states have mandatory boater education requirements. Whether or not your state requires that you take and pass an approved boating safety course depends on your age and the type of boat or personal watercraft you plan to operate.

What's the difference between a boating license and a boater education card or certificate?

It's essentially the same thing—proof of completion of an approved boater education course.

Alabama is technically the only state which requires boat operators to obtain a special endorsement on their vehicle driver's license showing that they have completed the required safe boating training. In all other states, the proof that a boater has taken and passed an approved boating course is a card or certificate issued by or on behalf of the state agency responsible for boating safety. It varies by state.

Most boaters don't know the exact name of the official proof of boating safety certification for their state, so they commonly refer to this certification as their boating license, boater's license or boat license.

How can I get my boating license or card?

Study your state's safe boating course for free and take the boat safety exam online. Once you pass, you'll either print out your temporary boater safety certificate (sometimes referred to as a boating license), or your permanent boater education card will be mailed to you. It varies by state, so be sure to read your state's boating regulations and laws.

May I test my boating safety knowledge for free?

You can test how much you know about boating regulation and boat safety—free of charge—with a boating safety course Practice Test. You may find that even though you have been boating for a long time, you still can learn something new about boating safely and the boating law in your state. Locate your state's boating safety course.