Oregon Boating Regulations and Laws

The Oregon Boater Education Card is proof that a boater has successfully completed a boating safety course.

By 2009 all operators of powerboats in Oregon will be required to carry the Boater Education Card. The Boat Oregon course helps boaters earn the required card, and is the same course taught in Oregon classrooms.

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

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

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 Oregon online boating exam. Once you pass, the official Boater Education Card issued by the Oregon State Marine Board is mailed to your home.
• Classroom: Share the learning experience with other boaters and a qualified instructor. Call 503-378-8587 or log onto the OSMB website to locate the next safe boating classroom course in your area.

Where can I get the boater safety education course material?

You're at the right place, because the Boat Oregon online safe boating course is the official course developed specifically for the Oregon State Marine Board. All the required safe boating course material to get your Boater Education Card is available for free online. Please visit our Oregon safe boating course introductory page to find out about the boater exam process.

Where can I get more information about the Oregon Boater Education Card?

• Read Frequently Asked Questions;
• Contact Boat Ed, and we'll be glad to answer any of your questions about the Oregon Boater Education Card or boating license requirements in other states;
• Contact the Oregon State Marine Board.

Who needs an Oregon Boater Education Card, and what can they operate once they get it?

Oregon'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.