Iowa Boating Regulations and Laws

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

Persons at least 12 years old but less than 18 years old may operate a motorized vessel, including personal watercraft, only if they complete a boater education course and possess a Boater Education Certificate approved by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources or they are accompanied on board by a responsible person who is at least 18 years old and experienced in operating the vessel.

Even if not required by law to get the Iowa 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 Iowa a safe, enjoyable pastime! Become an educated, responsible boater by completing the Boat Iowa course and practice what you learn.

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

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 Iowa online boating exam. Once you pass, the official boater education certificate issued by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources is mailed to your home.

Where can I get the boater safety education course material?

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

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

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

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

Iowa'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.