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Georgia Boating Safety Education Requirements
A Georgia Boater Education Card (also referred to as the Georgia Boating License) is required onboard while underway for all persons between 12 and 16 years of age in order to operate without adult supervision.
The online Georgia Boating License satisfies this state requirement. Passing the online exam allows you to obtain the Georgia Boater Education Card and get out on the water right away!
Age Restrictions
- Boaters 12 or 13 years of age may legally operate a Class A* boat powered by a motor of 30 horsepower or less or a PWC only if they have passed a boating safety course approved by the Department of Natural Resources, and are accompanied by a competent adult, and are under direct supervision of a competent adult.
- Boaters 14 or 15 years of age may legally operate any other boat or PWC only if they have passed a boating safety course approved by the Department of Natural Resources, and are accompanied by a competent adult, and are under direct supervision of a competent adult.
- All boaters or passengers 12 years of age and younger on the deck or cockpit must be wearing their PFD while the vessel is underway.
* Class A: less than 16 feet in length
Important Note
The online boating safety course covers a wide range of operating laws in Georgia. For a complete listing of Georgia's boat operating rules and regulations, please consult Georgia Department of Natural Resources website at www.goboatgeorgia.com
Boating License or Boater Education Card... is there a difference?
The boater education card is proof that you have successfully completed a boating safety course. The boater education card does not expire and does not need to be renewed. Therefore, it is NOT a Georgia Boating License!