Montana Boating Regulations and Laws

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

Montana law places restrictions on boat and PWC operation for those under 15 years of age. In some cases, passing an approved boating safety course allows youth to operate without being under direct adult supervision. The Boat Montana course meets these requirements.

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

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

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 Montana online boating exam. Once you pass, the official boater education certificate approved by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is mailed to your home.

Where can I get the boater safety education course material?

You're at the right place, because the Boat Montana online safe boating course was developed specifically for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. All the required safe boating course material to get your boater education certificate is available for free online. Please visit our Montana safe boating course introductory page to find out about the boater exam process.

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

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

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

Montana'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.