Michigan Boating Regulations and Laws

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

Michigan law places certain restrictions on boat and PWC operators. These restrictions vary depending on the operator's age, the type of vessel being operated, and the horsepower of that vessel. See Who May Operate a Boat or PWC for the specific requirements.

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

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

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 Michigan online boating Pre-Certification Exam. Once you pass, you may print out a course certificate which allows you to take the final proctored exam without attending a classrom course.
• Classroom Courses: Share the learning experience with other students by taking a boating certification classroom course led by a qualified instructor.

Where can I get the boater safety education course material?

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

Where can I get more information about the Michigan boater safety course certificate?

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

Who needs an Michigan boat license, and what can they operate once they get their boater safety course certificate?

Michigan'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.