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Boat South Dakota: Official South Dakota boating safety course South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks logo

Frequently Asked Questions About the South Dakota Boater's License

What is the South Dakota boating safety course certificate?

  • The South Dakota boating safety course certificate (also referred to as the South Dakota Boaters License) is proof that a boater has demonstrated basic boating knowledge by passing an approved boating safety course and exam.

Do I have to get the South Dakota boating safety course certificate (South Dakota boater's license)?

  • The South Dakota boater education certificate (commonly known as the South Dakota boating license) is proof that a boater has successfully completed a boating safety course. Even though not required by law to get the South Dakota boating license, many boaters take the boat safety course in order to save on their PWC or boat insurance.

What is the minimum age to obtain the South Dakota boating safety course certificate?

  • The minimum age to take the online boat safety exam is 12 years old.

How do I get my South Dakota boating safety course certificate (South Dakota boater's license)?

  • The steps required to get your South Dakota boaters license are as follows:
    • Study the South Dakota boating safety course material;
    • Take the South Dakota online boating exam
    • Pay $19.50—one time only, after you pass
    • Upon passing, you will receive your official South Dakota boating safety course certificate by mail within 5 - 7 days. This card is commonly known as the South Dakota boating license.
  • For a detailed explanation of the South Dakota online boating exam process, please visit our South Dakota boating license overview page.

How much does the online boater exam cost? How much does the South Dakota boating safety course certificate cost?

  • The online Certification Exam costs $19.50—one time only, after you pass. There is no charge for the South Dakota boating safety course certificate.

When will I receive my South Dakota boating safety course certificate in the mail?

  • Your South Dakota boating safety course certificate will be mailed to your home within 5 - 7 days after you pass the exam.

How do I replace my boating safety course certificate if I’ve lost it or it has been damaged?

  • A duplicate can be issued if the student took (and passed) the Boat South Dakota online course for $5 service charge. To obtain a duplicate South Dakota card, mail the request with a check for $5, payable to BOAT SOUTH DAKOTA, to:

    BOAT SOUTH DAKOTA
    2906 Ladybird Ln.
    Dallas, Texas 75220
    Be sure to include the student's full name and date of birth in the mailed request for a duplicate card. You may also phone Customer Service to request the duplicate and pay by credit card.

Is anyone exempt from getting the South Dakota boating safety course certificate (South Dakota boater's license)?

  • Any exemptions from the mandatory boater's license requirement are explained in detail on the Who May Operate a Vessel page.

What are the minimum age and boater education requirements to operate a personal watercraft or motorboat on South Dakota waters?

  • South Dakota's boating safety education requirements and laws about operating a boat or PWC are explained in detail on the Who May Operate a Vessel page.
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Online boating license and certification course last modified: October 26, 2009
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