Frequently Asked Questions About the Maryland Boater's License

What's the difference between a boating license and a boating safety education certificate? What it's called depends on the state you are in, but it represents essentially the same thing—proof of completion of an approved boater education course. In Maryland, the proof that a boater has taken and passed an approved boating course is a card or certificate issued by or on behalf of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Most boaters don't know the exact name of the official proof of boating safety certification for their state, so they commonly refer to it as a boating license.

What is the Maryland boating safety education certificate?

The Maryland boating safety education certificate (also referred to as the Maryland boaters license) is proof that a boater has demonstrated basic boating knowledge by passing an approved boating safety course and exam.

Do I have to get a Maryland boating safety education certificate (Maryland boater's license)?

All persons born on or after July 1, 1972, must have in their possession a certificate of boating safety education to operate a numbered or documented vessel (including personal watercraft) legally on Maryland’s public waters. The certificate is valid for the lifetime of the person to whom it is issued.

What is the minimum age to obtain a Maryland boating safety education certificate?

There is no minimum age to take the online boat safety exam.

How do I get my Maryland boating safety education certificate (Maryland boater's license)?

For a detailed explanation of the Maryland online boating exam process, please visit our Maryland boating license overview page.

How much does the online boater exam cost? How much does the Maryland boating safety education certificate cost?

The online Certification Exam costs $24.50—one time only, after you pass. There is no charge for the Maryland boating safety education certificate.

When will I receive my Maryland boating safety education certificate in the mail?

Your Maryland boating safety education certificate will be mailed to your home within 5–7 business days after you pass the exam.

Do I get a temporary card or certificate until my permanent boater's license arrives?

Upon passing the exam, you will be able to immediately print out a temporary boating safety education certificate online.

How do I replace my boating safety education certificate if I’ve lost it or it has been damaged?

A duplicate can be issued for a $10 charge if the student took (and passed) the Boat Maryland online course. To obtain a duplicate Maryland card, mail the request with a check for $10, payable to Boat Maryland, to:

Boat Maryland
14086 Proton Rd.
Dallas, TX 75244

Be sure to include the student's full name and date of birth in the mailed request for a duplicate card. You may also phone Customer Service to request the duplicate and pay by credit card.