The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries requirements for online boating safety courses changed effective January 1, 2009 and the NEW Boat Virginia Online Course meets those requirements. The old Boat Virginia course and test does not meet those requirements and was discontinued on December 31, 2008.

• Take the NEW Boat Virginia Online Course!
• Or, you can order the Boat Virginia Video Course

The course material below remains as a resource for all who boat on Virginia's waters—particularly experienced boaters who need a refresher, but not a boater education certificate.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Virginia Boater's License

• What is the Virginia boating safety education certificate?
• Do I have to get a Virginia boating safety education certificate (Virginia boater's license)?
• What is the minimum age to obtain a Virginia boating safety education certificate ?
• How do I get my Virginia boating safety education certificate (Virginia boater's license)?
• How much does the online boater exam cost? How much does the Virginia boating safety education certificate cost?
• When will I receive my Virginia boating safety education certificate in the mail?
• Do I get a temporary card or certificate until my permanent boater's license arrives?

What is the Virginia boating safety education certificate ?

• The Virginia boater education certificate (also referred to as the Virginia 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 a Virginia boating safety education certificate (Virginia boater's license)?

• There is no minimum age for operation of vessels other than personal watercraft. Those 13 years of age and younger may not operate a personal watercraft (PWC) under any conditions.
• In 2007, the Virginia General Assembly enacted a law to establish a boating safety education compliance requirement. The requirement for boating safety education is phased-in over several years. Effective July 1, 2009, the course requirements will apply to all PWC operators 20 years of age or younger. Effective July 1, 2010, the course requirements apply to all PWC operators 35 years of age or younger.

What is the minimum age to obtain a Virginia boating safety education certificate?

• There is no minimum age to take the online boat safety exam.

How do I get my Virginia boating safety education certificate (Virginia boater's license)?

• For a detailed explanation of the Virginia online boating exam process, please visit our Virginia boating license overview page.

How much does the online boater exam cost? How much does the Virginia boating safety education certificate cost?

• The online Certification Exam costs $29.50—one time only, after you pass. There is no charge for the Virginia boating safety education certificate .

When will I receive my Virginia boating safety education certificate in the mail?

• Your Virginia boating safety education certificate will be mailed to your home within 5 - 7 business days after you pass the exam.

Do I get a temporary card or certificate until my permanent boater's license arrives?

• Upon passing the exam, you will be able to immediately print out a temporary boating safety education certificate online.