Boater Education (32)

Two people fishing from boat on lake, how to get a boating license in Missouri concept.

How to Get a Boating License in Missouri

In place of a conventional boating license, Missouri requires a boating safety education card, also called an identification card. Anyone born after January 1, 1984, who operates a motorized vessel on Missouri waters must carry this card. The requirement applies to both residents and non-residents…

Close-up of woman at boat helm, Oregon boating license requirements concept.

What Are the Requirements to Get a Boat License in Oregon?

If you want to boat in Oregon, Oregon boating license requirements state that anyone operating a motorized vessel with more than 10 horsepower must have an Oregon Boating Safety Education Card. You can get this card by completing an approved safety course, passing the exam…

View of back of boat with person driving it away, get a California boating license concept.

How to Get Your Boating License in CA

If you boat on California waterways, you'll need a California Boater Card, which is the official name for the state's boating license. As of January 1, 2025, California requires everyone operating a motorized vessel on the water to have the card, regardless of their age.

Texas flag on a boat, get a Texas boating license concept.

How to Get a Boating License in Texas in 2026

In Texas, if you were born on or after September 1, 1993, you'll need to complete an approved boater education course to operate certain vessels. Boaters earn a certificate upon completing the course and must carry it and a photo ID at all times while…

Man in blue life vest drives boat, how to get your U.S. boating license concept.

How to Get Your U.S. Boating License in 2026

Thinking about how to get your US boating license? There's no single, nationwide "boating license" in the United States. Instead, individual states determine their own requirements to operate a recreational vessel. State requirements typically involve obtaining a boater education card or a boater safety certificate.