New Mexico Boating Regulations and Laws

The New Mexico boater education card (sometimes incorrectly called the New Mexico boating license) is proof that a boater has successfully completed a boating safety course.

All persons born after January 1, 1989, must pass an approved boater education course before they may operate a motorboat legally. Also, all persons must be at least 13 years of age to operate a sailboat, motorboat, or PWC unless under the direct, onboard supervision of an adult. The course or exam must be one that is approved by New Mexico State Parks. The Boat New Mexico online class has the official course material adopted by New Mexico State Parks for classroom instruction.

Even if not required by law to get the New Mexico boating boater card, many boaters take the boat safety course in order to save on their PWC or boat insurance.

Do your part to make boating in New Mexico a safe, enjoyable pastime! Become an educated, responsible boater by completing the Boat New Mexico course and practice what you learn.

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

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 New Mexico online boating exam. Once you pass, the official boating safety education certificate issued on behalf of New Mexico State 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 New Mexico online safe boating course is the official course developed specifically for the New Mexico State Parks. All the required safe boating course material to get your boating safety education certificate is available for free online. Please visit our New Mexico safe boating course introductory page to find out about the boater exam process.

Where can I get more information about the New Mexico boating safety education certificate?

• Read Frequently Asked Questions about the New Mexico Boater Education Card (not a license);
• Contact the New Mexico State Parks;
• Contact Boat Ed, and we'll be glad to answer any of your questions about the New Mexico boater's card or boating license requirements in other states.

Who needs a New Mexico boater education card, and what can they legally operate?

New Mexico's boating safety education requirements and laws about operating a boat or PWC are explained in detail on the Mandatory Boater Education and Operator Age Requirements page.