at what age in pa do you have to have the boater safety course

by Eriberto Mosciski 6 min read

In Pennsylvania, anyone born on or after January 1, 1982, must successfully complete a boater safety course approved by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission to operate a motorboat greater than 25 hp.

Full Answer

Do you have to take a boater safety course in PA?

In addition, those operating a boat over 25 hp are also required by law to pass a boater safety course and to carry a boater education card. There is no minimum age requirement to take this online course. You do not have to be a resident of Pennsylvania to take this online course.

When can I get a boating license in Pennsylvania?

Residents can begin to get a license when they have determined they meet eligibility requirements in the state. In Pennsylvania, boating license applicant age is an important factor when determining license requirements in the state. Residents born after January 1, 1982 must obtain licenses if they wish to operate a watercraft over 25 horsepower.

What are the age requirements to operate a personal watercraft in PA?

Personal Watercraft (PWC) Age Requirements. In Pennsylvania, no one may operate a personal watercraft (PWC) if they are 11 years of age or younger, under any circumstances All persons eligible to operate a PWC in Pennsylvania are required to obtain and have their Boating Safety Education Certificate onboard with them while underway If...

What are the age requirements to take a Boating Course in Illinois?

Illinois residents at least 12 years of age and less than 18 must successfully complete a NASBLA-approved boating course. Home study is not accepted for this age group. Illinois boating regulations.

How old do I have to be to drive a boat in PA?

May my child operate a boat? A person 11 years of age or younger may NOT operate a personal watercraft or a boat propelled by a motor greater than 25 horsepower. A person 12 through 15 years of age may NOT operate a personal watercraft if there are any passengers onboard 15 years of age or younger.

What happens if you get caught driving a boat without a license in PA?

There is a is $250 fine for not having the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (commonly called a boating license).

Can a 16 year old drive a boat alone in PA?

Must be 16 or older to operate a motorboat of 15 HP or greater if unsupervised. Those 12-15 years of age may operate under supervision of a person 18 or older who is on board. Operators of personal watercraft must be at least 14 years of age.

Do you need a boating license in PA to drive a jet ski?

Do you need a Boating License in Pennsylvania? Pennsylvania law requires all PWC operators to have boater education and to carry a boater education card. In addition, those operating a boat over 25 hp are also required by law to pass a boater safety course and to carry a boater education card.

Who needs boating license in PA?

Take your PENNSYLVANIA. Boater Exam Online. Who needs the Pennsylvania Boating Safety Education Certificate? All boaters born on or after January 1st, 1982 to operate a motorboat greater than 25HP or who operate a personal watercraft, regardless of age must have a Pennsylvania Boating Safety Certificate.

Can you have beer on a boat in PA?

Can You Drink Beer On A Boat In Pennsylvania? In Pennsylvania, the boating and alcohol laws prohibit persons under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination thereof from operating boats in the state's waters. State parks and most parks across the U.S. do not allow the consumption of alcohol on land or water.

Can a 12 year old drive a jet ski in PA?

Pennsylvania. In Pennsylvania, you must complete a boating course and be older than 12 to operate a PWC.

What are the rules for a junior license in PA?

Junior License Passenger limitation: Young drivers can have only one non-family member under 18 with them in the vehicle. After six months on the junior license, the restriction rises to no more than three passengers under 18. Immediate family members are excluded from the restriction.

What is required to have on a boat in PA?

All boats must have a USCG-approved wearable life jacket on board for each person. In addition to wearable life jackets, boats 16 feet and over must have a throwable device (ring buoy, life ring or buoyant seat cushion) on board. Canoes and kayaks, regardless of length, are not required to carry a throwable device.

Can you drink alcohol while kayaking in PA?

It is illegal to operate a watercraft (including canoes, kayaks, and personal watercraft, such as Jet Skis®) on all waters of the commonwealth while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.

How old do you have to be to jetski in PA?

Boats powered by an engine of less than 25 horsepower do not have age restrictions for operators. Persons 12-15 years of age may operate a PWC so long as there are not passengers on board that are under 15 years of age. A person must be at least 16 years of age to legally rent a PWC.

Is alcohol allowed on a boat in PA?

Pennsylvania's boating and alcohol laws require that no person shall operate any boat on Pennsylvania waters while they are under the influence of alcohol, drugs or a combination thereof. Alcohol is prohibited on land and water at all state parks and at most U.S. Army Corps of Engineer projects.

How much does the Pennsylvania Boat Ed Course cost?

The Pennsylvania Boat Ed Course fee is $39.95. You will also pay a $10.00 Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission fee and a $5.00 PFBC admin fee.

Are there any age or operator restrictions for boating in Pennsylvania?

See the restrictions here.

Do I have to complete the course all at once?

You may complete the course at your own pace. The course can be completed in one sitting or completed a little at a time over several days. All pay...

What is the minimum age to take this online course?

There is no minimum age requirement to take this online course.

Do I have to be a resident to take the Pennsylvania Boat Ed Course?

You do not have to be a resident of Pennsylvania to take this online course.

Is the Pennsylvania Boat Ed Course approved by the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission?

The Pennsylvania Boat Ed Course is approved and accepted by the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission.

Is my Pennsylvania Boating Safety Education Certificate accepted elsewhere?

For visiting boaters, all states, territories, and provinces will recognize boating education cards that meet NASBLA requirements and Canadian Plea...

I failed a unit quiz. Have I failed the course?

If you fail a unit quiz, you must restudy the unit and take the quiz again until you pass. You must score at least 70% on the unit quizzes to pass.

Do I have to take an online exam?

The Certification Exam is the exam you take at the end of the online course. You must score at least 80% on the exam to pass. You have unlimited at...

How much does the Pennsylvania iLearnToBoat Course cost?

The Pennsylvania iLearnToBoat Course fee is $49.50. You will also pay a $10.00 Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission fee and a $5.00 PFBC admin fee.

Do you need Pennsylvania Boating education?

Boater safety education is often referred to as a boating license, but what you really need is the Boating Safety Education Certificate. You can ge...

Are there any age or operator restrictions for boating in Pennsylvania?

See the restrictions here.

What is the minimum age to take this online course?

There is no minimum age requirement to take this online course.

Do I have to be a resident to take the Pennsylvania iLearnToBoat Course?

You do not have to be a resident of Pennsylvania to take this online course.

Is the Pennsylvania iLearnToBoat Course approved by the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission?

The Pennsylvania iLearnToBoat Course is approved and accepted by the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission.

Is my Pennsylvania Boating Safety Education Certificate accepted elsewhere?

For visiting boaters, all states, territories, and provinces will recognize boating education cards that meet NASBLA requirements and Canadian Plea...

Do I have to take an online exam?

The Final Exam is the exam you take at the end of the online course. You must score at least 80% on the exam to pass. You have unlimited attempts t...

What is the proof of online Pennsylvania iLearnToBoat Course completion?

Once you pass and pay for the online course, you will be able to immediately print out the Temporary Boating Education Certificate. This is your pr...

How long can you stay on a boat in Pennsylvania?

Residents of other states who were born on or after Jan. 1, 1982, and operate on Pennsylvania waters for 60 days or less are exempt if they hold a boating safety certificate issued by their home state.

Do you have to carry a boater education card?

Penalty: Not carrying your Boater Education Card when one is required can result in a fine.

Do all states recognize boating education cards?

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.”)

What age do you need to get a boating license in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania Boating License Requirements. In Pennsylvania, boating license applicant age is an important factor when determining license requirements in the state. Residents born after January 1, 1982 must obtain licenses if they wish to operate a watercraft over 25 horsepower. Education courses should be approved by the PA Fish ...

Why is boating legal in Pennsylvania?

Boating regulations are developed in Pennsylvania to ensure residents remain safe when driving motorized water vessels or boats. State boat requirements are important laws that must be adhered to by all drivers.

What should be kept on a boat?

Bells and whistles should be maintained on boats above a certain length. Fire extinguish ers should be maintained on boats above a certain length. Lifejackets must be kept on board, in case of an emergency. One jacket per passenger is must be on the boat at all times.

Can you replace a boater license in Pennsylvania?

If certificates are lost or stolen, they must be replaced as soon as possible.

Do you need a boat title to drive in Pennsylvania?

Boat registration is always required for drivers who own boats or personal watercraft in Pennsylvania. Additionally, a valid boat title is necessary. Boaters must meet eligibility standards to obtain titles and registrations. To prove eligibility, applicants should provide the following documents to the state:

How long does it take to get a boater safety certificate in Pennsylvania?

Your permanent Pennsylvania Boating Safety Education Certificate will arrive 4-6 weeks after successfully completing this course. Go boating! Your Pennsylvania Boating Safety Education Certificate is recognized in all U.S. states and Canada.

What is a boating license in Pennsylvania?

The Boating Safety Education Certificate (often referred to as "Pennsylvania boating License" or "Pennsylvania Boater Education Card") is proof that you have successfully completed all state-mandated boater education requirements. Vessel operators who are required to have a Boating Safety Education Certificate must carry their card on board ...

What is required to operate a PWC in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania law requires all PWC operators to have boater education and to carry a boater education card. In addition, those operating a boat over 25 hp are also required by law to pass a boater safety course and to carry a boater education card.

How long can you stay on a boat in Pennsylvania?

Residents of other states who were born on or after Jan. 1, 1982, and operate on Pennsylvania waters for 60 days or less are exempt if they hold a boating safety certificate issued by their home state.

Can you take the final exam for boating?

Learn and test your boating knowledge while you venture through this fun, interactive course. Once you successfully guide your group to safety, you may take the final exam. You have multiple attempts to pass the final exam.

What age do you need a boating safety certificate in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania Boating Safety Education Certificates are required for: all operators of personal watercraft; youth 12 to 15 years of age when operating boats powered by motors of more than 10 horsepower, and; boat operators born after January 1, 1982 that operate motorboats of more than 25 horsepower.

What age do you have to be to take a boating course in Maryland?

See note and Maryland boating regulations. Massachusetts residents 12 to 15 must successfully complete a NASBLA-approved boating course. Home study is not accepted for this age group.

How old do you have to be to operate a boat in Indiana?

Operators who are at least 15 years of age and don’t have a driver’s license may operate a motor vessel if they take a NASBLA-approved Boater Education course and have an I.D. Card issued by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Home study is accepted – Indiana boating regulations. No mandatory education requirements.

Do you need a boater education card in Missouri?

At that point, you will need to have a Missouri Boater Education card or another state’s NASBLA approved card if your birthday is after January 1, 1984. Yes. Montana. Montana residents 13 to 14 must successfully complete a NASBLA-approved boating course.

Is there a boating education requirement in Oregon?

No mandatory boating education requirements. N/A. Oregon. Oregon’s Mandatory Boater Education Program will be phased in beginning January 1, 2003 when persons age 30 and younger who operate boats greater than 10 hp will need to apply for and carry an Oregon Boater Education Card.

Can you take a boating course online in Pennsylvania?

After successfully completing an approved course, boaters should submit an official application form, $10, and a copy of their boating safety course certificate to the Oregon State Marine Board. Yes. Pennsylvania.

Is boating in Pennsylvania approved for out-of-state residents?

boat operators born after January 1, 1982 that operate motorboats of more than 25 horsepower. This online course is not approved for Pennsylvania residents meeting the above requirements. It is, however, approved for out-of-state residents boating in Pennsylvania. Not for PWCs.

How old do you have to be to operate a motorized boat?

No one under the age of 12 years may operate a motorized vessel unless is an emergency*. The operator should be at least 12 years old*. The operator should be at least 16 years old*. The operator should be at least 14 years old*.

What states require boating safety?

Even if your state doesn't require you to take a boating safety course or get a boating license, it is your responsibility to learn how to boat in a safe and responsible manner. Alabama. The operator must be at least 12 years old*. Alaska. The operator should be at least 12 years old*. Arizona.

Why is boating education important?

Regardless of your age or amount of boating experience, boater education is always recommended to refresh your skills and prevent accidents on the water. Trained boaters know safe boat operating procedures, navigation, communication, and emergency protocol.

Do you have to take a boating safety test in California?

In other words, if you live in California and own a boat, you have to pass a boating safety test to earn your California boating license or California Boater Card in order to operate a motorized vessel. ...

Do you need a boating license to operate a boat?

In addition, there may be state-specific laws or rules that pertain to the size of the boat and the manner in which the boat is powered. Some states may not require you to have a boating license, but is require to complete a boating safety course.

Is a boating safety certificate the same as a charter boat license?

Be aware that a recreational boating safety certificate or boating safety card is not the same as a charter boat license. Your boating safety certification or boaters safety card is proof that you have passed a state-approved recreational boating safety course. A charter boat license (also referred to as a captain's license) is an additional ...

Who needs a boater education card in Pennsylvania?

Who needs a Boater Education ID Card in Pennsylvania? The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission requires anyone born after January 1, 1982, to successfully complete a NASBLA– and state-approved boater safety course in order to operate a vessel powered by a motor of more than 25 horsepower or personal watercraft (PWC) on Pennsylvania waterways.

What is required of a boat operator in a boating accident?

A boat operator involved in a boating accident is required to: Stop their boat at the scene. Render assistance to any person who has been injured or who is in danger so long as they can do so without risking their safety or their passenger’s safety.

What type of life jackets are required for a boat?

Life jackets must be appropriate for the activity for which they are worn. Check the USCG approval label for information. In addition to wearable life jackets, boats 16 feet and over must have a Type IV throwable device (ring buoy, life ring or buoyant seat cushion) on board.

What are the requirements for life jackets in Pennsylvania?

WHAT ARE PENNSYLVANIA’S LIFE JACKET REQUIREMENTS. All boats must have a USCG-approved wearable life jacket on board for each person. Life jackets must be the appropriate size for the person intended. Check the life jacket label to ensure it’s the appropriate size for the person wearing it and make sure the jacket fits.

How old do you have to be to wear a life jacket in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, passengers 12 years of age and under on Commonwealth waters are required to wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket while underway on any boat that is under 20 feet in length and when riding in or operating, canoes and kayaks.

How long does it take for a boat accident to be reported to the PFBC?

If any of the following occur as a result of a boat accident, the PFBC must be immediately notified, followed by a written accident report within 48 hours: If a person has been injured and requires medical treatment beyond first aid. If a person has disappeared from the boat. If a person has been killed.

What is the purpose of a chemical test on a boat in Pennsylvania?

Any person operating a boat on Pennsylvania waters shall be deemed to have given consent to a chemical test or tests of their breath, blood and urine for the purpose of determining the alcohol content of their blood and the presence of any abused substance or controlled dangerous substance.

How old do you have to be to drive a boat in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, no one may operate a motor-powered vessel over 25 hp if they are 11 years of age or younger . Certain exceptions to this requirement do exist. Boat operators who are from out of state are exempt from obtaining their Pennsylvania Boating Safety Certificate under the following circumstances:

How many horsepower is required to operate a motorboat in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, anyone born on or after January 1, 1982, must successfully complete a boater safety course approved by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission to operate a motorboat greater than 25 hp.

How old do you have to be to rent a PWC?

If the PWC operator is between the ages of 12 and 15, they are prohibited from having any passengers onboard who are 15 years old or younger. PWC’s cannot be rented to anyone under 16 years of age, nor can someone who is under the age of 16 operate a rented PWC.

What is boaterexam.com?

BOATERexam.com ® is trusted by agencies across the United States to deliver the best of quality in boating safety education. Our courses consistently receive the highest level of approval from agencies and from boaters.

Do I need a boater safety certificate for PWC?

All personal watercraft (PWC) operators, regardless of age, are required to complete an approved boater safety course as well. Boaters and PWC operators must carry their Boating Safety Education Certificate as proof of boater education.

How old do you have to be to rent a PWC in Pennsylvania?

Persons 12 through 15 years of age may NOT operate with any passengers on board 15 years of age or younger, or rent a PWC. All PWC operators must obtain and have in their possession a Boating Safety Education Certificate. Official PA Boating Safety Education Certificate:

How to contact Boatus Foundation?

Feel free to call or email if you ever need help while you are taking the course. Send an email to SmartBoating@BoatUS.com. Or call us Toll Free at 1-800-245-2628. Mon - Fri: 9 AM - 5 PM Eastern Time.