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New Mexico Boating License

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New Mexico Boating License vs. New Mexico Boater Education Card

Don't these two terms mean the same thing?

No and yes. Many boaters use the term "New Mexico Boating License" when referring to their Boater Education Card. However, the Boater Education Card is NOT a boating license. Unlike a driver's license, your Boater Education Card does not have yearly renewal fees, cannot be revoked, and is good for life.

The table below shows the differences between a License and a Boater Education Card:

Driver's License	Boater Education Card
Must be renewed on a regular basis	Good for life
Must pay renewal fee each year	One time fee payment
Can be suspended or revoked	Can never be suspended or revoked

Next time you are asked about the New Mexico Boating License, respond: "It's not a boating license; it's a Boater Education Card!"

Education Requirement

As of January 1, 2007, all persons born on or after January 1, 1989 who operate a motorboat, sailboat, or PWC must have completed a State of New Mexico and NASBLA-approved safe boating education course. The resulting New Mexico Boater Education Card must be carried onboard during operation.

New Mexico Boating License