Official Paddlesports Safety Course Online
Take this American Canoe Association (ACA)–approved course to complete your online paddlesports safety education.
unlimited exam attempts
Get boater certified in 3 steps.
Study and pass the $29.50 course
Print your online course completion document.
Get ready to go paddling!
Do you need Paddlesports education?
Although paddlesports education is not required, all participants are responsible for learning their state laws and regulations to stay safe on the water.
American Canoe Association (ACA) Requirements
There is no minimum age requirement to take this online course.
There is no residential requirement to take the ACA Online Paddlesports Course.
A NASBLA-sanctioned course
Developed in partnership with the American Canoe Association
What to Expect From Boat Ed
Comprehensive Instruction in Paddlesports Safety Education
This official training program is developed to meet the standards for Paddlesports safety education established by American Canoe Association (ACA). Boat Ed is the only safety course provider that develops print materials that cover Paddlesports safety best practices and regulations.
American Canoe Association (ACA)–Approved Content
As a course provider approved by American Canoe Association (ACA), the ACA Online Paddlesports Course covers everything a new paddlesports enthusiast may need to know in order to be safe while using a paddlecraft.
Start the CourseLearn Your Way on Any Device
Boat Ed offers online courses that are fully mobile-friendly from start to finish. This safety course is designed to work on your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer.
Saved Progress
You may complete the course at your own pace. The course can be completed in one sitting or a little at a time over several days. Log in and out at any time, and we'll keep track of your progress. Most students finish the course in a few hours.
The ACA Online Paddlesports Course was created in partnership with the American Canoe Association.
After completing the course, continue your paddlesports education with in-person classes.
Find one near you on the American Canoe Association website.
Made in the U.S.A.
This safety course is proudly made to serve students, agencies, and organizations worldwide.
unlimited exam attempts
Paddlesports Frequently Asked Questions
Price and Payment
How much does the ACA Online Paddlesports Course cost?
The ACA Online Paddlesports Course fee is $29.50.
Taking the Course
Do I have to complete the course all at once?
You may complete the course at your own pace. The course can be completed in one sitting or completed a little at a time over several days. All pay-up-front courses are available for 90 days from time of registration and payment.
What is the minimum age to take this online course?
There is no minimum age requirement to take this online course.
Do I have to be a resident to take the ACA Online Paddlesports Course?
There is no residential requirement to take the ACA Online Paddlesports Course.
Course Approval and Acceptance
Is the ACA Online Paddlesports Course approved by the American Canoe Association (ACA)?
The ACA Online Paddlesports Course is approved and accepted by the American Canoe Association (ACA).
Is my Paddlesports Course Completion Certificate accepted elsewhere?
For visiting boaters, all states, territories, and provinces will recognize boating education cards that meet NASBLA requirements and Canadian Pleasure Craft Operator Cards that meet Transport Canada’s requirements. (This is known as “reciprocity.”)
Quizzes and/or Exams
I failed a unit quiz. Have I failed the course?
If you fail a unit quiz, you must restudy the unit and take the quiz again until you pass. You must score at least 80% on the unit quizzes to pass.
Do I have to take an online exam?
The Final Exam is the exam you take at the end of the online course. You must score at least 80% on the exam to pass. You have unlimited attempts to pass the exam. If you don’t complete the exam in one session, don’t worry. When you log in later, you will be taken to the first unanswered question of the exam.
About Your Certification
What is the permanent Paddlesports Course Completion Certificate?
The Course Completion Certificate is proof that you have successfully completed all the education requirements. You can print the Course Completion Certificate right then, and/or request that a PDF be emailed to you.
Replacement of Lost or Damaged Documents
How do I replace my Course Completion Certificate if I’ve lost it or it has been damaged?
To replace a lost or destroyed Course Completion Certificate, log in to the course and print a new one.
We’re people, not robots.
Your Boat Ed course comes with a dedicated customer service team made up of real people, not robots. We’re here to provide assistance to you through all channels—phone, email, and chat.
We’re available to help you:
9:00am to Midnight EST, seven days a week.
1-800-830-2268 (toll free)
