What is the Boater Education Card?

The Boating Education Card is proof that you have successfully completed all of the components of an approved boater safety course. This card allows boating in Oregon.

You Must Carry the Card

Boat operators who are required to have the Oregon Boater Card must carry the card on board the boat and have it available for inspection by an enforcement officer. Not carrying your Oregon Boater Card when it is required can result in a fine.

Out-of-state boaters are required to carry their state's boating education card while operating a motorboat over 10 hp. If the state doesn’t require or offer boating safety education, they will need to take the Oregon’s Mandatory Boating Safety Education course and purchase and carry the Oregon card before operating on Oregon waters.

Reciprocity

For visiting boaters, all states, territories, and provinces will recognize boating education cards that meet NASBLA requirements and Canadian Pleasure Craft Operator Cards that meet Transport Canada’s requirements. (This is known as “reciprocity.”)

I do not have a driver’s license. Can I still get the Oregon Boater Education Certificate?

Yes. You are not required to have a state driver’s license in order to obtain a Boater Education Card.

Other Questions

For these and other questions about your boating card, please check our FAQs.