Do You Need a Boating License in Tennessee?

June 4, 2026

Image with text ready for the water starts with Boat-Ed, do I need a New York boating license concept.

In Tennessee, boat operators must carry a boater education certificate (often called a “wallet card”), which serves as a traditional boating license.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency (TWRA) issues certificates after you take a boater education course. This accreditation serves as proof that you have passed the state boating safety requirements.

Understanding the state’s licensing and education requirements is essential before heading out. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the question, “Do you need a boating license in Tennessee?”, so you can stay safe and legal on the state’s stunning waters.

Graphic CTA with text the boater education course for state certification, do you need a boating license in AL concept.

Do You Need a Boating License in Tennessee?

Tennessee does not issue a traditional “boating license” but rather a boating safety education certificate. This certificate is required by law, and operators must carry proof of boater education.

When most people refer to a boating license in Tennessee, they are in fact referring to the boating safety education certificate.

Boaters on Tennessee lakes and rivers must complete and pass a TWRA-approved boating safety course. If you’re an out-of-state visitor, you must present an equivalent from the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), which allows you to use your boating license in another state.

Your boating safety education certificate shows that you have met NASBLA-approved boating safety education standards and provides legal authorization to operate a motorized boat on Tennessee waters.

What Is the Tennessee Boating Safety Education Certificate?

The TWRA-issued boating certificate is essential documentation from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency that shows you have completed the required boating safety education and passed the exam.

It promotes safe boating and ensures that all operators understand navigation rules and safety laws to the same standard. And it permits the legal operation of motorized vessels above 8.5 horsepower.

The TWRA, which is responsible for enforcing and administering the Boating Safety Act, issues certifications to ensure the safe use of state waterways.

Who Needs a Certificate?

Tennessee uses age and horsepower requirements to determine who must obtain a boating safety education certificate.

Born After January 1, 1989

Any operator born on or after January 1, 1989, who intends to operate any motorized vessel over 8.5 horsepower is required to obtain and carry a TWRA-issued boating safety certificate.

Certification requirements for those born after January 1, 1989, also apply to boaters renting in Tennessee.

Exemption for Supervised Operation

In some cases, an operator may be exempt if a qualifying adult is on board who can take immediate control of the vessel.

The supervising adult must be over 18 and born on or before January 1, 1989. Supervisors born after January 1, 1989, must hold a Tennessee boater education certificate or a recognized boating license.

Born On or Before January 1, 1989

Operators born before the age cutoff are fully exempt from the boating education requirement and do not require a certificate to operate a boat.

However, we always recommend taking a boating safety education course, even if you’re not legally required, as laws and regulations can change over time.

Out-of-State Residents

If you’re an out-of-state boater born after January 1, 1989, Tennessee accepts NASBLA-approved boating safety certificates.

Age Restrictions for Boating in Tennessee

Individuals under 12 years of age are not permitted to operate a vessel with more than 8.5 horsepower. The only exception is when an adult (18+) is onboard and able to take immediate control of the vessel.

Personal watercraft (PWC) and jet ski rules are subject to stricter regulations. Operators must be at least 16 years old to rent and operate a PWC (e.g., a jet ski).

Aerial view of a boat on a big lake, do you need a boating license in Tennessee concept.

How to Get Certified (Step-by-Step)

As of April 2025, you can get your US boating license for Tennessee online.

Step 1: Purchase a Permit

Before taking the boating safety education course, you must first purchase a Type 600 boating safety exam permit.

Permits cost approximately $10-$13 and are available through local licensed agents, such as Walmart or any licensed hunting or fishing shop.

You can also purchase a permit online via GoOutdoorsTennessee.

Step 2: Take the Course

Once you’ve got your permit, you’ll need to complete an approved boating safety course. Online providers such as Boat-Ed are a fantastic option because they offer unlimited exam attempts.

Plus, you can work at your own pace, so you can take the time to read and digest the essential safety information.

In most states, the cost of a boat license ranges from $30 to $70. The TWRA also conducts in-person courses for those who want a more traditional classroom experience.

If you take the course through Boat-Ed, you'll pay $54.95 for the course and final exam.

Step 3: Pass the Exam

To successfully pass the exam, you must score 80% or higher. Once completed, you’ll receive a temporary certificate while you wait for your permanent wallet card to arrive in the mail. Immediately print and carry that temporary copy on your vessel.

The Tennessee boater safety education card is typically valid for life. But we always recommend staying up to date on the latest changes in boater safety and navigation.

Get Your Boater Education Card in Tennessee with Boat-Ed

Tennessee boater education cards depend heavily on age and supervision status. Don't be caught off guard and always double-check with the TWRA if you're unsure.

Now's the time to complete certification before peak season. With a few easy steps, you'll be safe, compliant, and ready to explore the exciting and historic Tennessee waterways.

Getting your boating education safety card (license) is easy with Boat-Ed, thanks to go-at-your-own-pace study and unlimited exam retries. You can feel confident that the course is 100% TWRA-approved and hit the water with the knowledge and confidence to enjoy a safe day on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Who is required to have a boating license in Tennessee?

A: Tennessee requires a boating safety education certificate (often called a boating license or wallet card) for residents born after January 1, 1989, who operate a motorized vessel with more than 8.5 horsepower. Boaters must carry proof of certification while on the water. Tennessee also accepts NASBLA-approved boating education certificates from out-of-state visitors.

Q: Can I drive a boat in TN without a license?

A: It depends on your age and circumstances. Tennessee residents born on or before January 1, 1989, are generally exempt from the boating education requirement. Boaters born after that date must have a boating safety education certificate unless they are under the direct supervision of a qualified adult who can immediately take control of the vessel.

Q: Can you rent a boat without a boating license in Tennessee?

A: If you were born after January 1, 1989, you'll typically need a valid Tennessee boating safety education certificate or another accepted NASBLA-approved credential to legally operate a rented motorized boat. Rental companies may also have their own age and experience requirements.

Q: How hard is it to get a boating license in Tennessee?

A: Most boaters find the process straightforward with some preparation. You'll need to study boating safety materials, purchase a boating safety exam permit, and pass the state-approved exam. The test covers navigation rules, boating laws, and safe operation practices, and permit holders can retake the exam if needed.

Q: How much is it to get a boating license in TN?

A: Tennessee requires boaters to purchase a Type 600 Boating Safety Exam Permit before taking the exam. The permit costs $10, and once you pass the exam, you'll receive your boating safety education certificate. Additional course fees may apply depending on the training option you choose.