Frequently Asked Questions About the Texas Boater's License
What is the Texas boating safety education
certificate?
- The Texas boating safety education certificate (also referred to
as the Texas 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 the Texas boating safety education certificate (Texas boater's license)?
- Operators must meet age and education requirements in order to operate a motorized vessel of 10 horsepower or more, a personal watercraft, or a windblown vessel over 14 feet in length. A person less than 13 years of age may operate only if he or she is accompanied on board by a person who is 18 years of age or older. A person 13 through 17 years of age may operate only if he or she has passed a boating safety education course approved by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department or is accompanied on board by a person who is 18 years of age or older. All persons required to have passed a state-approved boating safety education course must carry with them on the vessel photographic identification, such as a driver's license, and a boating safety education certificate issued by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
What is the minimum age to obtain the
Texas boating safety education certificate?
- The minimum age to take the online boat safety exam is 12 years old.
How do I get my Texas boating safety education certificate (Texas boater's license)?
- The steps required to get your Texas boating safety education license are
as follows:
- Study the Texas boating safety course material;
- Take the Texas online boating exam
- Pay $13 for your exam regardless of whether you pass or fail
- Upon passing, you will receive your official Texas
boating safety education certificate by mail within 5 - 7 days. This
card is commonly known as the Texas boating license.
- For a detailed explanation of the Texas online boating exam
process, please visit our Texas
boating license overview page.
How much does the online boater exam
cost? How much does the Texas boating safety education certificate
cost?
- The online Certification Exam costs $13. There is no charge
for the Texas boating safety education certificate.
When will I receive my Texas boating safety education certificate in the mail?
- Your Texas boating safety education certificate will be mailed to
your home within 5 - 7 days after you pass the exam.
Do I get a temporary card or certificate
until my permanent boater's license arrives?
- Upon passing the exam, you may immediately print out a temporary
certificate valid for 30 days.
How do I replace my boating safety education
certificate if I’ve lost it or it has been damaged?
Is anyone exempt from getting
the Texas boating safety education certificate (Texas boater's
license)?
- Any exemptions from the mandatory boater's license requirement
are explained in detail on the Who
May Operate a Vessel page.
What are the minimum age
and boater education requirements to operate a personal watercraft
or motorboat on Texas waters?
- Texas boating safety education requirements and laws about
operating a boat or PWC are explained in detail on the Who
May Operate a Vessel page.
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