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Michigan Boating Safety Education Requirements
The Michigan DNR currently has a mandatory boater education requirement that requires all boaters between 12 and 16 years of age to have the Michigan Boating Safety Certificate (also known as the Michigan boating license) onboard when the vessel is underway to operate without adult supervision.
Boater education is also required for all persons born after December 31, 1978 who are at least 14 years of age and who wish to operate a personal watercraft (PWC) on Michigan waters.
Age Restrictions
- Boaters under the age of 12 may not under any circumstance operate any vessel with a motor greater than 35 hp.
- All boaters or passengers under 6 years of age must be wearing their PFD, either Type I or II, while the vessel is underway.
Important Note
The online boating safety course covers a wide range of operating laws in Michigan. For a complete listing of Michigan's boat operating rules and regulations, please consult Michigan Department of Natural Resource's website at www.michigan.gov
Boating License or Boater Safety Certificate... is there a difference?
The boating safety certificate is proof that you have successfully completed a boating safety course. The boating safety certificate does not expire and does not need to be renewed; therefore it is NOT a Michigan Boating License!