Utah Boating Regulations and Laws

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

Persons 12 through 15 years of age may operate a PWC provided the operator has completed a boating education course approved by Utah State Parks and Recreation, has in his or her possession the certificate issued by the course provider, and is under the direct supervision of a responsible person who is at least 18 years old. Persons 16 through 17 yeas of age may operate a PWC provided the operator has completed a boating education course approved by Utah State Parks and Recreation and has in his or her possession the certificate issued by the course provider. Motorized boats and sailboats may be operated by a person under 16 years of age only if they are under the direct supervision of a responsible person who is at least 18 years old.

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

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

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 Utah online boating exam. Once you pass, the official boating safety education certificate issued by Utah State Parks and Recreation is mailed to your home.

Where can I get the boater safety education course material?

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

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

• Read Frequently Asked Questions about the Utah boater's license;
• Contact Utah State Parks and Recreation;
• Contact Boat Ed, and we'll be glad to answer any of your questions about the Utah boater's license or boating license requirements in other states.

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

Utah'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.