What Does a US Boat License Cost?
Getting a boating license is an excellent step toward more adventures on your local waterways. Whether you've already purchased a vessel or want to get your license before shopping, you probably want to know how much your boating license will cost.
Your boat license cost can range between $30-$70. The cost depends on the state where you live, as each state has its own rules and regulations for licensing prices and requirements. Here's what to know about getting your license and associated costs.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Boating License in My State?
In the United States, the boating safety card cost varies by state and provider. That's because you also need to take a safety course, and there are often several options for doing so.
The cost of a boating license generally ranges from $30–$70. Some states require only a fee for the one-time boater safety course, but others require an additional license fee. A few states subsidize the cost of a boat license by making safety courses free or low-cost for residents.
What's Included in the Boat License Cost?
When you're considering the cost of a boat license, it's essential to understand how the course and the license work together. For the price you pay, you can expect:
- Boating safety course tuition, either online or in a classroom, that covers the rules of the water, navigation, safe operation, equipment requirements, and emergencies.
- A final exam and grading (online or in-person), with most states requiring a 70–80% score.
- A temporary certificate (printable or digital) that allows you to legally operate your boat upon course completion.
- A permanent boater education card (a plastic card mailed to you), which serves as your "boating license" in that state.
If you complete your online boating safety course through Boat-Ed, you also get a free one-year subscription to the Wavve Boating app. This is a $59.99 value that helps you navigate waterways free for a year!
What May Cost Extra
When you're asking "how much is a boat license in the US?" you should be aware that certain items can cost extra. For example, if your card is lost or damaged, you can generally expect to pay $10–$20 for a replacement card.
Some states also add processing fees to the course price. Optional study materials, such as printed handbooks or practice tests, can increase total costs.
Animated or interactive online courses might cost a little more. However, this additional expense can be worthwhile, as these premium versions can make getting through the course easier and more enjoyable.
Is a Boater Safety Card the Same as a License?
In most states, the boater safety card or boater education card is the same thing as a license. Unlike a driver's license, a boating license doesn't expire.
Some states offer the option to add a boating endorsement to a driver's license, but they also issue a separate card. Be sure to carry that card on the water, as you're legally required to have it with you anytime you operate a boat.
Can I Get a Boating License Online in the US?
In most states, you can take an approved boating safety course online. Online providers such as Boat-Ed are widely accepted for state boat license requirements, helping you get your license without worry.
States do have the right to request that you take an in-person proctored exam, but although this is possible, it's rare.
After you pass the test at the end of the course, you'll receive a temporary certificate, and your permanent card will come in the mail.
How to Get a Boating License in the US
To get a boating license in the US, follow these basic steps.
- Check your state's requirements first, because not all states require a license.
- Complete a state-approved boater safety course, either online or in person.
- Pass the final exam, which is usually multiple-choice and requires a passing score of 70–80%.
- Receive a temporary certificate immediately (printable or digital).
- Get your permanent card or license in the mail in a few weeks.
- Carry your card (or your temporary certificate if the card hasn't arrived yet) when operating a vessel.
In most states, the overall boat license cost is all-inclusive, but it's essential to understand whether there are other fees to pay so that you can get your license as efficiently as possible.
Is a Boating License the Same as a License for My Boat?
A boating license (operator) and a boat license (vessel registration) aren't the same. Here's how they're different.
Boating License (Boater Safety Card)
The boating license or boater safety card refers to you, the boat's operator. It shows you've completed a boater education course and are legally allowed to operate a boat. The boating safety card cost is usually a one-time expense, and you don't have to renew your license.
Boat Registration/Title (Like a License Plate for Your Boat)
The boat's registration or title refers to the vessel itself, and nearly every state requires it for specific types of boats. You'll get a registration number to display on the hull and a registration certificate to carry on board.
Generally, you'll need to renew your vessel's registration every year or every few years, depending on your state of residence.
Think of it this way:
- A license is permission for you to operate the boat.
- Registration is legal paperwork for the boat itself.
In most states and for most types of boats, you'll need both a safety card to drive and a valid registration for your vessel.
The Cost of a US Boat Education Course with Boat-Ed is Well Worth It
The boating safety card cost you pay is well worth it. Boater education saves lives while allowing you to boat legally in your state. A state-approved course helps you prepare for emergencies, understand boating etiquette, and learn more about navigation.
When you choose Boat-Ed, you get an easy-to-follow online experience that meets your state's requirements for boater safety education (or having a boating license). You can take our course from anywhere you can connect to the internet, at your own pace, so you're ready to hit the water legally and safely.
As you prepare for your next (or first) time at the helm of a boat, make sure you have your boater safety card.
Take the Boat-Ed boater education course for your state.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We have answers to common questions about "how much is a boat license in the US."
Q: How much does it cost to get a boating license in my state?
A: Costs for a boating license vary by state and by course provider. Most states charge $30–$70 for an approved safety course. Check your state’s boating or wildlife agency for exact fees.
Q: Is a boater safety card the same as a license?
A: In most states, yes, a boater safety card is the same as a boating license. The “boater safety card,” “boating license,” and “boater education certificate” typically mean the same thing. They are all proof that you completed a required safety course.
Q: Can I get a boat license online in the US?
A: Yes, you can get a boating license online in the US. Nearly every state accepts state-approved online boater safety courses that issue a valid card upon completion.
Q: Is it worth getting a boating license?
A: Getting a boating license is absolutely worth it. It’s required in many states, improves safety on the water, lowers the risk of accidents, and may even help reduce insurance costs.
Get your boating license online! Take the Boat-Ed boater education course for your state.
