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Frequently Asked Questions About the Alabama Boater's License

What is the Alabama Boating Course Certificate of Completion?

Do I have to get the Alabama Boating Course Certificate of Completion?

  • If you are under 12 years of age: You may not obtain your Alabama boater safety certification, and you may not operate a vessel under any circumstances.
  • If you are 12 or 13 years of age: You may obtain your Alabama boater safety certification. After obtaining the certification, you may operate a vessel legally only if supervised on board by a person who:
    • Is at least 21 years of age and ...
    • Carries a valid proof of his or her Alabama boater safety certification and ...
    • Is in position to take immediate physical control of the vessel.
  • If you are 14 years of age or older: After obtaining Alabama boater safety certification, you may operate a vessel without supervision legally.

What is the minimum age to obtain the Alabama Boating Course Certificate of Completion?

  • The minimum age to take the online boater safety certification exam is 12 years old.

How do I get my Alabama Boating Course Certificate of Completion (Alabama boater's license)?

  • The steps required to get your Alabama boaters license are as follows:
    • Study the Alabama boating safety course material;
    • Take the Alabama online boating exam
    • Pay $29.50 - one time only, after you pass your exam
    • Upon passing, you will receive your official Alabama Boating Course Certificate of Completion by mail within 2 - 3 weeks.
    • To obtain an Alabama Boater Safety Certification (ie. Alabama license), the applicant must go to the Department of Public Safety Driver's License Examining Office in their county of residence and present the Boating Course Certificate of Completion and have the "V" endorsement placed on his/her automobile driver's license. If applicant does not have an automobile driver's license, a "Vessel Only" license will be issued.
  • For a detailed explanation of the Alabama online boating exam process, please visit our Alabama boating license overview page.

How much does the online boater safety certification exam cost? How much does the Alabama Boating Course Certificate of Completion cost?

  • The online Certification Exam costs $29.50 - one time only, after you pass your exam. There is no charge for the Alabama Boating Course Certificate of Completion.

When will I receive my Alabama Boating Course Certificate of Completion in the mail?

  • Your Alabama Boating Course Certificate of Completion will be mailed to your home within 2 - 3 weeks after you pass the exam.

Do I get a temporary certificate until my permanent boating course certificate of completion arrives?

  • A temporary certificate is not issued. Upon passing the exam, The Alabama Marine Police issues the Boating Course Certificate of Completion. The applicant should receive it in the mail within 2 - 3 weeks of passing the online exam.

How do I replace my Boating Course Certificate of Completion if I’ve lost it or it has been damaged?

  • For a replacement course certificate, the applicant must send a written request for a replacement to the Alabama Marine Police, including a $5 check or money order for handling fee, with his/her name, date of birth, social security number, mailing address, and year that the certificate was issued. Also, in the written request indicate the type of instruction received (online, classroom, etc.). The address for the Alabama Marine Police is: Alabama Marine Police 64 N. Union Street, Room 438, Montgomery, AL 36130-1451. You may also contact the Alabama Marine Police by phone at (334) 242-3683 or 1-800-272-7930.

Is anyone exempt from getting the Alabama Boating Course Certificate of Completion (Alabama boater's license)?

  • Any exemptions from the mandatory boater's license requirement are explained in detail on the Who May Operate a Vessel page.

What are the minimum age and boater education requirements to operate a personal watercraft or motorboat on Alabama waters?

  • Alabama'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.
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Online boating license and certification course last modified: April 8, 2009
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