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Frequently Asked Questions About the Kentucky Boater's License

What is the Kentucky boating safety education certificate?

  • The Kentucky boating safety education certificate (also referred to as the Kentucky 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 the Kentucky boating safety education certificate (Kentucky boater's license)?

  • The Kentucky boating safety education certificate (commonly known as the Kentucky boating license) is proof that a boater has successfully completed a boating safety course. Persons 12 to 17 years of age may legally operate a motorized vessel over 10 horsepower (including personal watercraft) only if they have passed an approved boating safety course and carry on board their boater education certificate or are accompanied on board by a person 18 years old or older or by a person who possesses a boater education card.

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

  • There is no minimum age to take the online boater exam.

How do I get my Kentucky boating safety education certificate (Kentucky boater's license)?

  • The steps required to get your Kentucky boaters license are as follows:
    • Study the Kentucky boating safety course material;
    • Take the Kentucky online boating exam
    • Pay $29.50—one time only, after you pass
    • Upon passing, you will receive your official Kentucky boating safety education certificate by mail within 2-3 weeks. This card is commonly known as the Kentucky boating license.
  • For a detailed explanation of the Kentucky online boating exam process, please visit our Kentucky boating license overview page.

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

  • The online Certification Exam costs $29.50—one time only, after you pass. There is no charge for the Kentucky boating safety education certificate.

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

  • Your Kentucky boating safety education certificate will be mailed to your home within 2-3 weeks after you pass the exam.

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

  • Upon passing the exam, you may immediately print out a temporary certificate valid for 30 days.

How do I replace my boater education card if I’ve lost it or it has been damaged?

  • A duplicate card can be issued for students who have passed the Boat Kentucky course. Contact the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources at (502) 564-3176.

Is anyone exempt from getting the Kentucky boating safety education certificate (Kentucky 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 Kentucky waters?

  • Kentucky'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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