What is a New York Boating Safety Certificate?
The New York Boating Safety Certificate is proof that a boater has successfully passed the New York Boating Safety Test. As of January 1st, 2020 all boat operators in New York who were born on or after January 1, 1993 are required to obtain a Boating Safety Certificate to operate a motorized boat or PWC. The new law is being phased in over 6 years, with all boat operators requiring certificate as of January 1st, 2025.
Is the New York Boating Safety Certificate the same as a Boating License?
The State of New York required boat operators to obtain a safety certificate in order to legally operate a motorized boat. It is commonly referred to as a ‘boating license’ however, unlike a driver’s license a boating safety certificate is good for life, and does not require renewal.
Who needs a New York Boating Safety Certificate?
All boat operators in New York who were born on or after January 1st, 1993 are required to get certified. The Boating Safety Education law in New york will continue to be phased in over the next 6 years:
If you were born after: | You will be required to obtain a New York Boating Safety Certificate as of: |
January 1, 1993 | January 2020 |
January 1, 1988 | January 2022 |
January 1, 1983 | January 2023 |
January 1, 1978 | January 2024 |
All ages | January 2025 |
Who is exempt from having to obtain a New York Boating Safety Certificate?
- State certified instructors
- Instructors who are certified with the USCG or the US Power Squadrons
- Licensed Canadian and US Commercial boat operators
- Police or peace officers, firefighter, emergency rescue personnel or lifeguards acting within the scope of their official duties
- Non-residents who have obtained boating safety certification from another state
What is the fine for not having the Card?
Boaters caught without a New York Boating Safety Certificate may be fined up to $250.
How do I get a New York Boater Education Certificate?
You can obtain your official Boating Safety Certificate from BOATsmart! in three steps:
- Take the BOATsmart! New York Boating Safety Course online.
- Pass the New York Boating Safety Test online.
- Print a Temporary Certificate immediately.
Will my New York Boating Safety Certificate ever expire?
No. Your New York Boating Education Certificate is good for life. However, you will always have access to your BOATsmart! Course, and can check-back any time to brush up on your boating safety knowledge, and explore free refresher lessons.
How do I replace my New York Boating Safety Certificate?
You can easily purchase a replacement New York Boating Safety Certificate by contacting BOATsmart! at 1-877-655-7778 or by logging in to your BOATsmart! Account online.
Do I need a Driver’s License to operate a boat in New York?
No. The state of New York does not require that boat operators possess a valid driver’s license. However, they are required to obtain a New York Boating Safety Certificate to legally operate a motorized boat or PWC within the state, if they were born on or after January 1st, 1993.
Do I need a Boating Safety Certificate for all types of boats?
Boat operators in the state of New York, who require boating safety certification, must obtain a New York Boating Safety Certificate to legally operate any motorized boat or PWC within the state.
How long does the New York Boating Safety Course take?
The state of New York requires that you spend a minimum of 3 hours studying the online course. The purchase of your BOATsmart! New York Boating Safety Course includes unlimited lifetime access.
Is my New York Boating Safety Certificate valid in other states?
Yes. The New York Boating Safety Certificate is accepted in 40 states, which extend reciprocity. This means the BOATsmart! Course meets the National Standards established by NASBLA. This law applies to operators of motorized boats, but not in all states to operators of personal watercraft (PWCs). Always check the boating laws in the state you plan to visit prior to operating a boat or PWC there.