Oregon Boating License
vs. Oregon Boater Education Card
Don't these two terms mean the same thing?
No and yes. Many boaters use the term "Oregon 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 Oregon Boating License, respond:
"It's not a boating license; it's a Boater Education Card!"
* Children under 12 years old may not operate any power boat
** Children 12 to 15 years old are required to carry their Oregon Boater Education Card on-board AND have a Card-holding adult (16 years
of age or older, 18 years of age for personal watercraft) on-board in direct supervision in order to operate
a powered watercraft GREATER than 10 hp.
*** Children must be 12 years old to take their Oregon Boating Exam and receive their Boater Education Card.