Who Needs To Take the Florida Safe Boating Course for Violators?
What happens if you commit a boating violation while on the water? Is it anything like what can happen if you violate the law while driving?
For some states, yes!
Those who commit boating violations in Florida must take a special "defensive driving" course for violators. Florida's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has partnered with Boat-Ed to offer the nation's first approved defensive boating course: the Florida Safe Boating Course for Violators.
Today, we answer questions about the course, including who needs to take it. We also talk about who should take a boating education course (even without committing a violation).
Who Is Considered a "Violator?"
In Florida, anyone convicted of a criminal boating violation or an infraction resulting in a reportable boating accident must take the Florida Safe Boating Course for Violators, in addition to a state-approved classroom or online boating safety course.
Anyone convicted of two non-criminal infractions within 12 months is required to take a state-approved safe boater education course. The online Boat Florida Course satisfies this requirement.
Florida's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission notes these requirements on their website.
Which Course Do I Have to Take?
Depending on the type of violation or infraction, one of two courses may be required:
- A NASBLA- and Florida-approved boating safety education course
- The four-hour Florida Violator course, available online only from Boat-Ed
So, if you're convicted of two non-criminal infractions within a 12-month period, you need to take only the NASBLA- and Florida-approved boating safety course available at Boat Ed.
However, anyone convicted of a criminal boating violation or an infraction resulting in a reportable boating accident must take the boating safety course and the Florida Violator Course.
How Much Does the Violator Course Cost?
The course, exam, and certificate are $49.95. Upon completing the course and passing the exam, you'll receive your completion results instantly.
Can I Still Operate a Boat if I Haven't Passed the Required Courses?
Nope!
Your boating privileges are suspended until you successfully complete the courses and send proof to the FWC.
Do I Need Proof of Completion?
Yes. After you complete the Florida Violator Course, Boat-Ed sends proof of completion to the FWC electronically.
For the state-approved Florida boating safety course, it's your responsibility to send a certificate of completion within 90 days to:
Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission
Division of Law Enforcement
Boating and Waterways Section
620 South Meridian Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600
Do I Need a Safety Course If I Haven't Committed a Violation?
Yes! If you were born on or after Jan. 1, 1988, and will be operating a motorized boat of 10 hp or more in Florida, you need to pass a boating education course.
However, even if you don't fall under the requirements noted above, we highly recommend taking a safety course. With a course through Boat-Ed, you will be prepared for a safer (and more fun) day on the water.
You'll also be less likely to commit a violation when you understand how to operate a boat safely, including essential navigation rules, boater etiquette, and other essential information that helps boaters enjoy the water.
Take Your Safe Boating Course and Get on the Water With Boat-Ed
Do you need to take the Violator Course for Florida? Learn more about it and sign up through our website. Then, pass your exam before boating season starts again so you can get out on the water without additional penalties.
If you haven't committed any violations and are ready to be the safest captain on the water, choose our general boater safety course for Florida. Our courses are 100% online, and you can also take and pass your exam online!
Originally published June 23, 2015. Content updated November 2, 2023.
