Frequently Asked Questions About the North Dakota Boater's License

What is the North Dakota boating safety education certificate?

The North Dakota boating safety education certificate (also referred to as the North Dakota 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 a North Dakota boating safety education certificate (North Dakota boater's license)?

The course you are about to take will fulfill North Dakota’s boating education requirement. Persons under 12 years of age may not operate a power-driven vessel (including personal watercraft) that is propelled by a motor over 10 horsepower unless they are accompanied on board by a person at least 18 years of age. Persons 12 through 15 years of age may not operate a power-driven vessel (including personal watercraft) that is propelled by a motor over 10 horsepower unless they are accompanied on board by a person at least 18 years of age or they have successfully completed an approved boating safety course.

(In lieu of the term boating license North Dakota refers to its mandatory proof of education as the North Dakota Boating Education Certificate.)

What is the minimum age to obtain a North Dakota boating safety education certificate?

There is no minimum age to take the online boat safety exam.

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

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

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

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

Your North Dakota boating safety education certificate will be mailed to your home within 5–7 business days after you pass the exam and pay for the online course.

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

Yes. Once you pass and pay for the online course, you will be able to immediately print out a temporary boating safety education certificate.

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

A duplicate can be issued for a $10 charge if the student took (and passed) the Boat Ed North Dakota online course. To obtain a duplicate North Dakota card, mail the request with a check for $10, payable to BOAT ED NORTH DAKOTA, to:

BOAT ED NORTH DAKOTA
14086 Proton Rd.
Dallas, TX 75244

Be sure to include the student's full name and date of birth in the mailed request for a duplicate card. You may also phone Customer Service to request the duplicate and pay by credit card.

Is anyone exempt from getting the North Dakota boating safety education certificate (North Dakota boater's license)?

Persons over 15 years of age are not required to carry a boating safety education certificate

What are the minimum age and boater education requirements to operate a personal watercraft or motorboat on North Dakota waters?

Persons under 12 years of age may not operate a power-driven vessel (including personal watercraft) that is propelled by a motor over 10 horsepower unless they are accompanied on board by a person at least 18 years of age. Persons 12 through 15 years of age may not operate a power-driven vessel (including personal watercraft) that is propelled by a motor over 10 horsepower unless they are accompanied on board by a person at least 18 years of age or they have successfully completed an approved boating safety course.