In Delaware, anyone born on or after January 1, 1978, needs a Boating Safety Education Certificate to operate a motorized vessel on Delaware waters. State law requires these operators to complete a DNREC-approved boating safety course and to carry the certificate on board at all times for inspection by law enforcement.

Delaware provides two exemptions to this requirement:

• Individuals with a valid U.S. Coast Guard captain’s license.
• Individuals with a valid Delaware River and Bay Pilot’s License, or an equivalent license from another jurisdiction.

All other operators born on or after the required date must complete the state-approved course to legally operate a boat in Delaware.

Delaware’s Boating Safety Education Certificate is recognized in other states that follow NASBLA standards. Delaware law specifically states that a NASBLA-approved certificate issued by any state is valid for boating in Delaware, and this reciprocity generally applies when Delaware boaters travel to other states as well.

Because Delaware’s approved courses, including online interactive boater safety courses, meet NASBLA requirements, most neighboring states will honor this certificate as their equivalent to a boating license. However, boaters should review the laws of the destination state, as some may have additional requirements or age restrictions even when reciprocity applies.

Delaware Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police
89 Kings Highway Dover, DE 19901

Made in the U.S.A.
This safety course is proudly made to serve students, agencies, and organizations worldwide.

Is it the Boating safety license?
Boating safety education certification is not the same thing as a Boating license. What you really need is the Boating Safety Education Certificate. You can get the Boating Safety Education Certificate by taking this boat safety course at boat-ed.com. Find out if you need the card.

Did you lose your card? Replace it here.

Whether trailering your boat from one launch to another or cruising from place to place along the coast, Delaware offers boaters a surprising range of waterways to explore. From the Atlantic Ocean to calm inland lakes and winding rivers, the state provides many opportunities to enjoy time on the water. With scenic bays, peaceful ponds, and coastal channels stretching from Lewes to Fenwick Island, boaters in Delaware can travel through marshlands, spot wildlife, stop at beaches or waterfront towns, or enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by natural beauty. Delaware’s moderate Mid-Atlantic climate also supports a relatively long boating season for those who enjoy spending warm days on the water.

Along the Delaware coast, areas like Rehoboth Bay and Indian River Bay give visitors access to calm waters, fishing spots, and shoreline attractions within walking distance of boat docks. For those navigating between Delaware and nearby Maryland waters, the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal provides a 14-mile passageway with historic sites, waterfront dining, and scenic views. Delaware’s freshwater sites—such as Lums Pond (the state’s largest freshwater pond), Killens Pond, Silver Lake, and the small and peaceful Lake Como—offer opportunities for quiet boating, fishing, paddling, and wildlife watching. Whether entering the Atlantic through the Indian River Inlet, where conditions vary with tides and weather, or enjoying serene no-wake zones in state parks, a boating certification allows you to explore these areas confidently.

When boating on Delaware waters, vessel operators are responsible for the safety of everyone on board. A boating safety course teaches navigation rules, emergency procedures, Delaware regulations, required equipment, and safe operation practices, helping ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.