South Dakota Boating Regulations and Laws

The South Dakota boating safety certificate (commonly known as the South Dakota boating license) is proof that a boater has successfully completed a boating safety course.

No person under 12 years of age may operate a motorboat propelled by a motor of more than 6 horsepower unless there is a person 18 years of age or older on board the motorboat. No person under the age of 14 may operate a personal watercraft, regardless of horsepower, unless there is a person 18 years of age or older on board the PWC.

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

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

Laws and regulations concerning operating a personal watercraft or vessel, required equipment, vessel registration and much more can be found in Unit 4 of the Boat Ed South Dakota course content.

How do I take a safe boating exam and get my boater education card?

You can study over the Internet then take the South Dakota online boating exam. Once you pass, the official boating safety course certificate, approved by the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, is mailed to your home.

Where can I get the boater safety education course material?

You’re at the right place, because the Boat South Dakota online safe boating course is the official course developed specifically for South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks. All the required safe boating course material to get your boater education certificate is available for free online. Please visit our South Dakota safe boating course introductory page to find out about the boater exam process.

Where can I get more information about the South Dakota boater education certificate?

• Read Frequently Asked Questions about the South Dakota boater's license;
• Contact the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department;
• Contact Boat Ed, and we’ll be glad to answer any of your questions about the South Dakota boater’s license or boating license requirements in other states.

Who needs a South Dakota boat license, and what can they operate once they get their boater education certificate?

South Dakota's boating safety education requirements and laws about operating a boat or PWC are explained on the FAQs page.