Frequently Asked Questions About the Georgia Boater's License

• What is the Georgia boater certification card ?
• Do I have to get a Georgia boater certification card (Georgia boater's license)?
• What is the minimum age to obtain a Georgia boater certification card ?
• How do I get my Georgia boater certification card (Georgia boater's license)?
• How much does the online boater exam cost? How much does the Georgia boater certification card cost?
• When will I receive my Georgia boater certification card in the mail?
• Do I get a temporary card or certificate until my permanent boater's license arrives?
• How do I replace my boater education card if I’ve lost it or it has been damaged?
• Is anyone exempt from getting the Georgia boater certification card (Georgia boater's license)? What are the minimum age and boater education requirements to operate a personal watercraft (PWC) or motorized vessel on Georgia waters?

What is the Georgia boater certification card ?

The Georgia boater education certificate (also referred to as the Georgia 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 Georgia boater certification card (Georgia boater's license)?

• Those 12 or 13 years of age may legally operate a Class A* boat powered by a motor of 30 horsepower or less or a PWC only if they have passed an approved boating safety course, or are accompanied by a competent adult, or are under direct supervision of a competent adult.
• Those 14 or 15 years of age may legally operate any other boat or PWC only if they have passed an approved boating safety course, or are accompanied by a competent adult, or are under direct supervision of a competent adult.

* Class A: less than 16 feet in length

What is the minimum age to obtain a Georgia boater certification card?

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

How do I get my Georgia boater certification card (Georgia boater's license)?

• Study the Georgia boating safety course material;
• Take the Georgia online boating exam
• Pay $29.50—one time only, after you pass
• Upon passing, you will receive your official Georgia boater certification card within 5–7 business days. This card is commonly known as the Georgia boating license.

How much does the online boater exam cost? How much does the Georgia boater certification card cost?

The online Certification Exam costs $29.50—one time only, after you pass. There is no charge for the Georgia boater certification card.

When will I receive my Georgia boater certification card in the mail?

Your Georgia boater certification card will be mailed to your home within 5–7 business days after you pass the exam and pay for the online course.

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

Yes. When you pass, you may instantly print out a temporary boater certification card good for 60 days.

How do I replace my boater education card 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 Georgia online course or home-study video course. To obtain a duplicate Georgia card, mail the request with a check for $10, payable to BOAT GEORGIA, to:

BOAT GEORGIA
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.

Is anyone exempt from getting the Georgia boater certification card (Georgia boater's license)? What are the minimum age and boater education requirements to operate a personal watercraft or motorboat on Georgia waters?

Find out more about operator requirements and Georgia boating law on the “Laws” page.