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Boat Vermont: Official Vermont boating safety course Vermont State Police

The Vermont State Police changed the guidelines for distance learning. So, the old Boat Vermont boat and PWC safety course and test was discontinued on February 2, 2009.

The course material below remains as a resource for all who boat on Vermont's waters—particularly experienced boaters who need a refresher.


Frequently Asked Questions About the Vermont Boater's License

What is the Vermont Boating Safety Education Certificate?

Do I have to get a Vermont Boating Safety Education Certificate (Vermont boater's license)?

  • All persons born after January 1, 1974, must have successfully completed an approved boating safety education course to legally operate any motorized vessel (this includes personal watercraft). The boating safety education course must be approved by the Vermont State Police. Those successfully completing a course are issued a certificate by the Vermont State Police, which is valid for the student’s lifetime. No one younger than 10 years of age may receive a certificate. Those younger than 12 years of age must take a classroom course. Persons required to have completed the course must carry his or her course certificate on board when operating a motorized vessel.Those born after January 1, 1974, are exempted from the above if they:
    • Are licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard to operate a commercial vessel or ...
    • Operate the vessel only on a private lake or pond or ...
    • Are not a resident of Vermont and have proof that they have passed an approved boater education course in another state.
  • If you were born on or before January 1, 1974: You are not required by Vermont law to take the exam or carry the Vermont Boating Safety Education Certificate. If you wish obtain a boating safety education certificate in order to apply for a reduced boat insurance premium or any other reason, you may take the online exam found on this website.

What is the minimum age to obtain a Vermont Boating Safety Education Certificate online?

  • You must be at least 12 years of age to take the online boating test.

How do I get my Vermont Boating Safety Education Certificate (Vermont boater's license)?

How much does the online boater exam cost? How much does the Vermont Boating Safety Education Certificate cost?

  • The online Certification Exam costs $29.50—one time only, after you pass. There is no charge for the Vermont Boating Safety Education Certificate.

When will I receive my Vermont Boating Safety Education Certificate in the mail?

  • Your Vermont Boating Safety Education Certificate will be mailed to your home within 2-3 weeks after you pass the exam.

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

  • Yes. When you pass, you may instantly print out a temporary certificate. You will receive your permanent Vermont boater certification card by mail.

How do I replace my boater education card if I’ve lost it or it has been damaged?

  • For students who have passed the Boat Vermont online course a duplicate card may be requested online from the Vermont State Police (VSP) at http://www.dps.state.vt.us/vtsp/boat/lost.html. To receive the card by mail, call the VSP at 1-802-872-4048.
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Online boating license and certification course last modified: February 2, 2009
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