Louisiana Boating Regulations and Laws

The Louisiana boater education certificate (commonly known as the Louisiana boating license) is proof that a boater has successfully completed a boating safety course.

Persons born after January 1, 1988, may not operate a motorboat powered by a motor in excess of 10 horsepower unless he or she has successfully completed a boating safety course approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA). These persons must be in possession of evidence of completion of the approved course whenever operating such a vessel. It is illegal for anyone under the age of 16 years to operate a personal watercraft (PWC).

Even if not required by law to get the Louisiana boating license, many boaters take the boat safety course in order to save on their PWC or boat insurance.

Do your part to make boating in Louisiana a safe, enjoyable pastime! Become an educated, responsible boater by completing the Boat Louisiana course and practice what you learn.

How do I learn about the legal requirements of boating in Louisiana?

Laws and regulations concerning operating a personal watercraft or vessel, required equipment, vessel registration and much more can be found in Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating.

How do I take a safe boating exam and get my boater education card?

• Internet: You can study over the Internet then take the Louisiana online boating exam. Once you pass, the official boater education certificate issued by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is mailed to your home.

Where can I get the boater safety education course material?

You're at the right place, because the Boat Louisiana online safe boating course is the official course developed specifically for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. All the required safe boating course material to get your boater education certificate is available for free online. Please visit our Louisiana safe boating course introductory page to find out about the boater exam process.

Where can I get more information about the Louisiana boater education certificate?

• Read Frequently Asked Questions about the Louisiana boater's license;
• Contact the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries;
• Contact Boat Ed, and we'll be glad to answer any of your questions about the Louisiana boater's license or boating license requirements in other states.

Who needs an Louisiana boat license, and what can they operate once they get their boater education certificate?

Louisiana's boating safety education requirements and laws about operating a boat or PWC are explained in detail on the Who May Operate a Vessel page.