Other Facts About Boater Safety Certification

Here are some other facts about boater safety certification.

• If you are 12 years old or older, you may obtain boater safety certification by fulfilling any one of the conditions below.
  • Show a valid course certificate obtained by passing a boating safety course:
    • Offered by U.S. Power Squadrons or by USCG Auxiliary or...
    • Approved by the ALEA Marine Patrol Division.
  • Pass a certification examination administered by the Alabama Department of Public Safety Driver’s License Division.
  • Show a valid USCG Motorboat Operator's License.
  • Show proof that you were 40 years old or older as of April 28, 1994.
• If you are required to have boater safety certification, you must carry proof of your Alabama boater safety certification on board when operating a power-driven vessel and make it available upon request to any person with law enforcement authority.
• Temporary exemptions exist for boater safety certification.
  • A new owner of a vessel may operate without boater certification for 30 days from the date of sale providing the vessel is registered in his or her name and a bill of sale is on board naming him or her as the purchaser.
  • A person may operate a rented vessel without boater safety certification if:
    • He or she has been instructed in safe and proper operation of the vessel by the rental business and...
    • He or she is not currently under suspension or revocation of any boater certification or vessel operation privilege.
• Certification may be cancelled, suspended, or revoked if you operate a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, operate in a reckless or careless manner, or on points.