Hello boater! Effective July 17, 2009, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources changed their guidelines for distance learning. Students are now required to spend a minimum amount of time on each course page before proceeding to the certification exam.

Click here to go to the latest version of the Boat Illinois online course—the official boating safety course of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Diving is a popular sport, and divers can be found in areas shared with recreational boaters. As diving's popularity increases, it becomes more important for both boaters and divers to take special precautions. As a vessel operator, you should be able to recognize a diver-down flag floating in the area of the divers. Stay the legal distance away from a diver-down flag and watch for divers surfacing. For their own safety, divers should always display the diver-down flag and stay close to the flag. Anchor your boat securely. Never dive or snorkel alone.