Frequently Asked Questions About the Oregon Boater's License

• What is the Oregon Boater Education Card?
• Do I have to get an Oregon Boater Education Card (Oregon boater's license)?
• What is the minimum age to obtain an Oregon Boater Education Card?
• How do I get my Oregon Boater Education Card (Oregon boater's license)?
• When will I receive my Oregon Boater Education Card in the mail?
• Do I get a temporary card or certificate until my permanent boater's license arrives?
• How do I replace my boater education card if I’ve lost it or it has been damaged?

What is the Oregon Boater Education Card?

• The Boater Education Card is proof of competency of completing a basic boating safety course and is authorized to operate a boat in Oregon. The Boater Education Card is a lifetime card (no renewal necessary) and you only pay a one-time $10 application fee. If in the mandatory education age group, the Boater Education Card must be carried with you whenever you are operating a watercraft greater than 10 hp.

Do I have to get an Oregon Boater Education Card?

• As of 2009 all operators of powerboats are required to carry the Boater Education Card.

What is the minimum age to obtain an Oregon Boater Education Card?

• You must be at least 12 years of age to take the online boat safety exam.

How do I get my Oregon Boater Education Card?

• For a detailed explanation of the Oregon online boating exam process, please visit our Oregon boating license overview page.

When will I receive my Oregon Boater Education Card in the mail?

• Your Oregon Boater Education Card will be mailed to your home within 2 - 3 weeks after you pass the exam, IF you ordered it online.

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

• Yes. If you pass, you will be able to immediately print out a Certificate of Completion online, which will be valid as your TEMPORARY permit for 60 days.
• If you have problems printing out the temporary certificate on your home computer, you may email us at the address shown below, and we can email you a duplicate temporary certificate.

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

• You can not take another online exam to obtain a replacement card. The Oregon State Marine Board will not send a second boater education card to a person who has already received one. Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) rules limit each boater to one boater education card each. Faulty cards will be replaced at no charge, however the old card must be returned. If an individual loses or damages their boater education card, they should call 503-378-8587 for instructions on having it replaced.