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How To Acquire A Boating License In 5 Steps

Nowadays, your family and friends don’t have to spend a considerable amount of money on an expensive vacation to enjoy. There are a variety of outdoor activities that can bring everyone together without spending a fortune. One of these adventures is boating. When you’re on the water, there’s no rush hour but it is an excellent opportunity to be close to nature, relax, and strengthen family and friendship bonds.

However, going boating may require some planning and preparations. Depending on the state you’re in, you may need to obtain a boating license before operating a sailboat or a powerboat like a yacht. This license will authorize you to drive a water vessel without risking legal repercussions.

So, if you want to acquire a boating license, below are the five steps you need to follow from the get-go:

1. Determine The Requirements First

Before you can apply for a boating license, you must determine whether you’re eligible for one. In most cases, the qualifications for a boating license varies from one state to another. These requirements are based on different age groups.

For example, in Tennessee, licensed operators of boating vessels can be as young as twelve years old if they finished the requisite education course. In West Virginia, a license can be issued to sixteen-year-old boat drivers. In New York, the state law requires that boat operators must have a boating license if they are fourteen years old or older. or if they were born on or after January 1, 1993.

Because of these differences, it’s essential to research the eligibility requirements for your state before submitting an application.

How To Acquire A Boating License In 5 Steps

2. Complete A Boating Education And Safety Course

After you’ve determined whether or not you’re eligible for a boating license, the next step is to enroll and finish a boating education and safety course. In general, education and safety courses for boating are designed to learn the best practices used for driving any water vessel.

For example, these courses cover boating terminologies, rules on navigation, how to stay safe when boating, how to deal with boating emergencies, and many more. Moreover, they highlight laws and regulations that boating operators should be aware of before sailing in a given state.

As a result, if you wish to sail on one of New York’s waters or anywhere else without getting into legal troubles, you need to complete the online NY boating course administered by a state-accredited provider. It can also help you learn everything you need to know about boating so you can get your license as soon as possible.

3. Pass The Boating License Test

Now that you’ve completed the boating education and safety course, it’s time to take and pass the license test. The exam is meant to assess your boating knowledge and decide whether you are prepared to properly drive a water vessel. Depending on the course provider you’ll be working with, you may be given numerous chances to pass the test.

Once you get a passing rate, you’ll be a few steps away from getting your boating license. So, make sure to prepare yourself for the test if you want to get better results.

4. Pay The License Fee

After passing the examination, the next step is to pay the boating license fee. However, it’s important to note that license fees also vary based on the provider and state you’re in. For example, some providers offer boating courses and license for free, while others charge a modest amount ranging from USD$29 to USD$50 for the program and exam.

Due to these differences, it’s advisable to double-check the license fees before taking out a boating license. By doing so, you can ensure the provider you want to work with is affordable and reliable.

5. Get Your License And Go Boating

After the payment of fees, the course provider will issue your boating license within the specified timeframe. It may take a few weeks for your permit to arrive once you pass your test. Thus, it’s also best to ask your state-accredited boating course provider about the timeframe to manage your expectations.

Once you have the license, it’s time to plan your next boating adventure with family and friends. Keep your boating license with you at all times when you’re out on the water. That way, you can avoid any legal trouble if an authority conducts an inspection and possibly questions your ability to operate a water vessel.

Bottom Line

Going for a boating trip can be a happy and enjoyable experience. But, if you want to spend time with your loved ones on the water without any hitch, make sure you carry a license that authorizes you to navigate a boat safely. If you haven’t acquired a license yet, follow the steps mentioned above in mind, and you’ll be in the right direction.

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Written by Marcus Richards

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