​BOATING SAFETY COURSES AND CERTIFICATES

Knowledgeable boaters are safer boaters!

Boating courses are available to everyone and offered at many locations throughout the state and online. People who successfully complete a Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission approved boating course are issued a Boating Safety Education Certificate good for a lifetime.

Boating Safety Education Certificates are required:

• To operate a personal watercraft
  
• For persons born on or after January 1, 1982, to operate boats powered by motors greater than 25 horsepower.

Any operator that is required to have a Boating Safety Education Certificate must carry the certificate with them while operating a boat.

Approved permanent Boating Safety Education Certificates for Pennsylvania residents must be issued by the PA Fish and Boat Commission. Out of state boaters must have a certificate issued for a course approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA).

Get your card when you complete an in-person or online course.

For a duplicate or replacement card, or to obtain a Boating Education Safety Certificate card from a U.S. Coast Guard Auxillary, U.S. Power Squadron or other approved course, complete the Application for Boating Safety Education Certificate.  

For questions on boating courses or your Boating Safety Education Certificate, email us at RA-FB-EDUCATION@pa.gov.