Mandatory Boater Education

In 2005, a law was passed requiring boat operators to take a boater safety education course in order to operate a boat in Washington state. The law applies to operators of motorboats with 15 horsepower or greater.

Boaters can take an education course in a classroom, online or at home. Once the course is completed and test passed, boaters need to send a completed application for their card.

If boaters already have taken an approved boating class, they only need to send in their application with supporting documents to get a Boater Education Card.

• Take an approved boater education course in the classroom, online or at home.
• Complete and submit the application for a Boater Education Card along with fee and supporting documents.

Helpful Links:

• Card application
• Course options
• Getting a card
• Class Schedules 
• Frequently asked questions 
• Law background
• Rental safety checklist