Much like getting your drivers license, getting a boating license is a serious affair. There a several different kinds of boating licenses, plus each state may have its own laws in respect to who may or may not operate a boat and the kind of license needed.
The speed of a boat is generally the determining factor when deciding if a person requires a license to operate that boat. Generally, if the boat is powered by a motor and reaches speed over 10 knots, it will require a license to legally operate. 10 knots is the speed that a boat will start to plane out at, generally speaking.
The general boat license is for people who are 16 or over and will allow you to operate a powered motor boat. Younger children who are at least 12 but not yet 16 can get a restricted boating license, much like a learner’s permit for a vehicle, that has the following restrictions:
The child must be with someone who has the general boating license.
They must never exceed 20 knots speed.
They should never exceed 10 knots when it is dark.
They are not allowed to tow a skier or wakeboarder.
Your boating license is good for 12 months or 3 years, depending on the kind of license you buy, but you will save money in the long run if you purchase the three year license up front.
So how do you proceed with getting your boating license? The process is very similar to getting a drivers license.
You will have to complete a boating course and pass the test at the end of the course. You will need to understand how a boat works, how to maintain it, and know the general boating regulations. You will also learn boating safety, and how to tell if the weather is going to be safe for boating.
There are quite a few places where you can go to obtain your boating license. Ask at your local marina or at the Department of Recreation to find out where you can take boating classes. Some places may offer online courses or information for your boating license.
When deciding between an online or real life course, it is ultimately up to you. Just remember, experience is the best teacher, and an online course doesn’t have the hand-on experience with real water and other boats around you to teach you. The presence of a live instructor is also very nice to have in case of questions.
Obey the laws of your state, and get your boating license. these are steps to becoming a responsible boater. Remember, states may differ in the requirements to get a boating license, Once you get your license, then you can start to enjoy the pleasure of boating. Have fun out there, but be careful and boat responsibly!
Loading ...