9.1 IN OHIO

A law went into effect as of January 1, 2000, requiring boaters born on or after January 1, 1982, to successfully complete either a boating course or a proficiency exam in order to operate a boat powered by more than 10 horsepower.

Note: The boating course must be approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators; and the proficiency exam must be approved by the ODNR Division of Watercraft.

Rentals:

• Anyone born on or after January 1, 1982, who is operating or supervising the operation of a rental boat, must meet the requirements for boater education.
• Rental businesses cannot lease or rent a boat powered by more than 10 horsepower to anyone born on or after January 1, 1982, unless the person does one of the following:
• Signs a statement that they have successfully completed an approved boating course or a proficiency exam.
• Successfully passes an abbreviated exam, with a score of 90 percent or better, administered by the business and valid only for the period of the rental agreement.

Supervising Person:

• No one under 12 years of age may operate a boat powered by more than 10 horsepower unless the person is under the direct visual and audible supervision of a person who is at least 18 years of age who is aboard the powercraft.
• A supervising person born on or after January 1, 1982, must hold a boating course or proficiency exam certificate.

Personal Watercraft Operation:

• Children under 12 years of age cannot operate a personal watercraft.
• A person between 12 and 15 years of age may operate a personal watercraft if a supervising person 18 years of age or older is aboard the personal watercraft.

Violations:

• Violators of this requirement are guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree if the violation is not related to a collision, injury to a person, or damage to property, punishable by a fine of not more than $250, a term of imprisonment of not more than 30 days, or both.
• If the violation is related to a collision, injury to a person, or damage to property, it is a misdemeanor of the third degree, which is punishable by a fine of not more than $500, a term of imprisonment of not more than 60 days, or both.

Any boater who is required to have a boater education certificate must present it within 72 hours at the request of a watercraft officer.

9.2 CONTINUING EDUCATION

After finishing this course you should have an understanding of fundamental boating safety and technique. Now that you know the basics, don't be afraid to explore! There is a myriad of courses that aim to expand your knowledge and skills on boating. A number of organizations offer classroom as well as practical courses that will help you improve your technique, and help you be safe on the water. For more information or to find courses in your area, contact the Ohio Division of Watercraft.

Classroom courses offered by the Ohio DNR can be found here: www.dnr.state.oh.us