Overview
There is no single national boating exam in the United States. Boater education requirements are set by each state, and Texas and New York both issue a certificate or card on completing an approved course. The U.S. Coast Guard's boating safety site lists courses rather than a single exam, offered by state agencies and by volunteer organisations such as the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the United States Power Squadron.
This page uses Texas and New York as two clearly labelled examples. Check your own state boating agency for the rule that applies to you. The Coast Guard site refers readers to the directory of the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators for state contacts.
Who must take a course
Texas. You must complete a boater education course if you were born on or after 1 September 1993 and you operate any of the following:
a personal watercraft
a motorboat with more than 15 horsepower
a sailboat longer than 14 feet
New York. Under Brianna's Law, every operator of a motorised vessel, including personal watercraft and specialty craft, must complete a state-approved safe boating course. Operators of non-motorised boats such as kayaks and canoes are encouraged to take it but are not required to. You must be at least 10 years old to take the course.
Course formats
The Coast Guard describes the most popular basic courses as having about 6 to 13 lessons, covering boat handling, weather and other safety topics. Providers whose course meets the American National Standard for Basic Boating Knowledge or for On-Water Boating Skills can ask to be listed on the Coast Guard page. Course types include:
online courses with an online certification test, offered by several commercial providers and in some cases free of charge
classroom courses run by state agencies, the Coast Guard Auxiliary and the United States Power Squadron
skills courses such as sailing, paddling and personal watercraft instruction
Texas accepts approved online courses (with chapter quizzes) and in-person classroom courses. New York offers both in-person and online courses.
Certificates and validity
In New York, the safe boating certificate is valid for life, but you must carry the original paper certificate on board while operating a motorised boat. New York recognises the certificate issued by your home state. People over 18 may rent a motorboat from a livery without a certificate if staff give basic instruction before departure; under-18 renters need a certificate.
Fees
Fees depend on the provider and state. The Coast Guard lists some providers that offer free online courses with certification in several states. Check the price on the course page before you pay.
Preparation tips
Pick a course approved by the state where you will boat.
New York notes that life jackets must be Coast Guard approved, with one for each person on board, and kept where they can be reached quickly in an emergency.
FAQs
Does a certificate from one state work in another?
New York states that it recognises the safe boating certificate from your home state. Other states set their own rules, so check the agency of the state where you will boat.
Do kayakers and canoeists need the course?
In New York it is encouraged but not required for non-motorised boats. In Texas the rule is tied to personal watercraft, motorboats above 15 horsepower and sailboats over 14 feet.