Boating Regulations and Laws

Washington Boating Safety Education Requirements

The state of Washington is currently phasing in mandatory boater safety education for all boaters by the year 2015. Each year, a new age group will need to carry the Washington Boater Safety Education Card, often incorrectly referred to as the Washington Boat license, boaters license, or boating license according to the schedule below:

Exemptions to Education Requirement

You do not require an Washington Boater Education Card if:

• Your vessel has an engine that is under 15hp;
• Your age group does not yet require a boater education card
• You were born prior to January 1st, 1955
• You hold a valid U.S. Coast Guard Marine Operator's License

Age Restrictions

• Boaters under the age of 12 are not permitted to operate any vessel that is 15hp or greater. No one under 14 may operate any personal watercraft (PWC) on Washington State Waters.
• Children under the age of 13 must wear a properly fitted Personal Flotation Device (life jacket) when onboard any vessel that is less than 19 feet in length.

Important Note

The online boating safety course covers a wide range of operating laws in Washington. For a complete listing of Washington's boat operating rules and regulations, please consult Washington State Park's Boating Program website at www.parks.wa.gov

• Start the Washington Boating Safety Course now
• Take the Washington Boating Safety Test
• Read more about the Washington Boating Safety course and test