Frequently Asked Questions About the South Carolina Boater's License
What is the South Carolina boating safety education certificate?
The South Carolina boater education certificate (also referred to as the South Carolina 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 South Carolina boating safety education certificate (South Carolina boater’s license)?
South Carolina law requires a person under 16 years of age to pass a boating safety course or be accompanied by an adult at least 18 years old who is not under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs in order to operate a vessel powered by 15 horsepower or more, including PWCs.
What is the minimum age to obtain a South Carolina boating safety education certificate?
There is no minimum age to take the online boat safety exam.
How do I get my South Carolina boating safety education certificate (South Carolina boater’s license)?
- Study the South Carolina boating safety course material
- Take the South Carolina online boating exam
- Pay $29.50—one time only, after you pass
- Upon passing, you will receive your official South Carolina boating safety education certificate within 5–7 business days. This card is commonly known as the South Carolina boating license.
How much does the online boater exam cost? How much does the South Carolina boating safety education certificate cost?
The online Certification Exam costs $29.50—one time only, after you pass. There is no charge for the South Carolina boating safety education certificate.
When will I receive my South Carolina boating safety education certificate in the mail?
Your South Carolina boating safety education certificate will be mailed to your home within 5–7 business days after you pass the exam.
Do I get a temporary card or certificate until my permanent boater’s license arrives?
Yes. When you pass, you may instantly print out a temporary boating safety education certificate good for 60 days.
How do I replace my boater education card if I’ve lost it or it has been damaged?
A duplicate card can be issued by the state agency. Contact Gay Steading at 843-953-9378.
Is anyone exempt from getting the South Carolina boating safety education certificate (South Carolina boater’s license)?
Persons 16 years of age or older may operate any boat or PWC without restrictions.
What are the minimum age and boater education requirements to operate a personal watercraft or motorboat on South Carolina waters?
- There are no minimum age requirements.
- Persons 16 years of age or older may operate any boat or PWC without restrictions.
- Persons younger than 16 years of age may operate:
- A boat or PWC powered by less than 15 horsepower without restrictions.
- A boat or PWC powered by 15 horsepower or more only if:
- They are accompanied by an adult at least 18 years old who is not under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs or…
- They have passed a boating safety course approved by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
- It is unlawful for a person to cause or allow a child over whom they have permanent or temporary responsibility to operate a boat or PWC illegally.
South Carolina Boating Course
