How to Get a Boating License in Ohio

Table of Contents

• Who Needs a Boating License in Ohio?
• Steps to Get Your Ohio Boating License
• Exemptions & Alternative Options
• Where to Get Started

Who Needs a Boating License in Ohio?

In Ohio, the law requires that anyone born on or after January 1, 1982, who operates a boat with more than 10 horsepower must complete a boating safety course and carry proof of certification. This certification is often referred to as a boater education card rather than a license.

Steps to Get Your Ohio Boating License

1. Take an Ohio-Approved Boating Safety Course

The first step to getting your boating certification is completing an approved Ohio Boating Safety Course. You can take this course:

• Online: Ohio-approved online courses offer flexibility and allow you to complete the material at your own pace.
• In-Person: The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) offers classroom courses periodically.

2. Pass the Boating Safety Exam

At the end of the course, you’ll take a final exam covering key topics like:

• Navigation rules and buoy markings
• Safe boating practices
• Emergency procedures
• Ohio-specific boating laws

You must score at least 70% to pass the exam.

3. Receive Your Boater Education Card

Once you pass the exam, you’ll receive a Boater Education Certificate (also called a boating license or card). This must be carried while operating a boat and serves as proof of meeting Ohio’s education requirement.

4. Keep Your Certification With You

Ohio law requires that you keep your boater education card on board whenever you operate a boat. Failing to provide proof of certification when required could result in fines or penalties.

Exemptions & Alternative Options

While Ohio requires most boaters born on or after January 1, 1982, to complete a boating safety course, there are a few exemptions to this rule. You may not need a boater education card if you fall into one of the following categories:

1. Supervised Boating

If you are operating a boat under the direct supervision of someone who already holds a valid boater education card and is 21 years or older, you do not need to have your own certification. However, the supervising person must remain onboard and be able to take immediate control of the vessel if necessary.

2. Operating a Boat with 10 Horsepower or Less

Boaters operating vessels with 10 horsepower or less are not required to take a boating safety course. However, it is still recommended for safety awareness and best practices.

3. Commercial Vessel Operators

If you hold a valid U.S. Coast Guard captain’s license or a merchant mariner credential, you are exempt from Ohio’s boating education requirements. This exemption applies to those operating both commercial and recreational vessels.

4. Out-of-State Visitors with Equivalent Certification

If you are visiting Ohio but already hold a boater education card from another state, you do not need to take an additional Ohio boating safety course. However, the out-of-state certification must be from a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA)-approved course.

5. Temporary Boating for Rentals

If you are renting a boat in Ohio, the rental facility may provide a brief safety education session before allowing you to operate the vessel. While this is not a substitute for full certification, it satisfies state requirements for temporary operation during the rental period. Always check with the rental company to ensure compliance.

Where to Get Started

You can take an Ohio-Approved boating course right here at Recademics! Start now

You can find in-person courses through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) website.

Stay safe and enjoy your time on the water in Ohio! 🚤