Florida Boating Laws and Regulations
The Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card (also sometimes incorrectly
referred to as the Florida boating license) is proof that a boater has taken and
passed an approved boater education course. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission currently has a mandatory boater education requirement
that has been law since October 1, 1996 requiring all boaters 21 years old and
younger to have their Florida boating safety ID card and photo ID onboard when
the vessel is underway.
Many boating fatalities occur because boaters aren't educated about boating safety.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission believes that an educated
boater is a safer boater.
Who needs the card?
All boaters 21 years old and younger, operating a PWC or a power boat of 10 hp or more is required to have passed an approved boater education course.
Once an operator of a vessel reaches 22 years of age, there are no more restrictions,
and they are no longer required to have the card. However, it is encouraged for
everyone to obtain the card regardless of their age in order to:
- increase their knowledge of boating safety
- be eligible for marine insurance discounts
An operator may be required by the State to take a boating safety course, if they have criminal or non-criminal boating safety infractions against them.
Where can I get my Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card?
You can write your safe boating exam directly on the Internet on this site. Once
you pass the exam your boating safety education ID card will arrive in the mail
in about 2 to 3 weeks.
Is there a study guide?
All the required study material for your online boater
exam is available for free online. We encourage you to study the material fully
before attempting the exam. The Florida Safe Boating Course
is approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Where can I get more information about Florida's boating laws and regulations?
Answers to most of your questions about the Florida boater education laws can be found
on our Frequently Asked Questions page. You may also visit
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
or you can contact us for additional information.