Ohio Boating Regulations and Laws

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

Ohio law places restrictions on boat and PWC operation for those born on or after January 1, 1982 AND on youth operators. Boaters born on or after January 1, 1982, must complete either a boating course or a proficiency exam in order to operate a boat powered by more than 10 horsepower. The Ohio Boating Education Course course meets this requirement and is the same course taught in Ohio classrooms.

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

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

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 Ohio online boating exam. Once you pass, the official boater education card issued by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources is mailed to your home.

Where can I get the boater safety education course material?

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

Where can I get more information about the Ohio boater education card?

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

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

Ohio's boating safety education requirements and laws about operating a boat or PWC are explained in detail on the Ohio Operating Laws page.