Frequently Asked Questions About the Idaho Boater’s License

• What is the Idaho boating safety education certificate?
• Do I have to get an Idaho boating safety education certificate (Idaho boater’s license)?
• What is the minimum age to obtain an Idaho boating safety education certificate?
• How do I get my Idaho boating safety education certificate (Idaho boater’s license)?
• How much does the online boater exam cost? How much does the Idaho boating safety education certificate cost?
• When will I receive my Idaho boating safety education certificate 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 Idaho boating safety education certificate (Idaho boater’s license)? What are the minimum age and boater education requirements to operate a personal watercraft (PWC) or motorized vessel on Idaho waters?

What is the Idaho boating safety education certificate?

The Idaho boater education certificate (also referred to as the Idaho 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 an Idaho boating safety education certificate (Idaho boater’s license)?

• Personal watercraft rental businesses must provide education to each person who will ride and operate the PWC, and requires the operator of the PWC to carry a verification wallet card.
• In addition to penalties, boaters are required to pass a boating course if they are convicted of operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Boaters who are repeat offenders of any boating law or rule are also required to pass a boating course.

What is the minimum age to obtain an Idaho boating safety education certificate?

There is no minimum age to take the online boating test.

How do I get my Idaho boating safety education certificate (Idaho boater’s license)?

• Study the Idaho boating safety course material;
• Take the Idaho online boating exam;
• Pay for your exam and find out your grade;
• Upon passing, you will receive a Boat Idaho boating safety education certificate in the mail. This card is commonly known as the Idaho boating license.

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

The online Certification Exam costs $29.50. There is no charge for the Idaho boating safety education certificate.

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

Your Idaho 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?

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 Idaho online course. To obtain a duplicate Idaho card, mail the request with a check for $10, payable to BOAT IDAHO, to:

BOAT IDAHO
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 Idaho boater certification card (Idaho boater’s license)? What are the minimum age and boater education requirements to operate a personal watercraft or motorboat on Idaho waters?

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