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Home > Programs > Bureau of Natural Resources > Division of Law Enforcement > Mandatory Boating Education Requirements


 
Division of Law Enforcement
Mandatory Boating Education Requirements

On January 1, 2002, a new law took effect making it mandatory for boaters to be certified in order to operate vessels on the waters of this State.

Who needs to be certified?
  1. Anyone born after January 1, 1986, who operates a vessel with a motor that exceeds 10-horse power.
  2. Anyone who operates a personal watercraft (jet ski) regardless of age.
Where to go to get certified?
  1. State approved classroom boating safety courses are available through CCRI Lincoln and Warwick. Contact CCRI for a list of upcoming courses at (401) 333-7070.
  2. Classes sponsored by US Power Squadron and Coast Guard Auxiliary are held throughout the year at various locations around the State. Click on the below links find a class near you.
Any boating safety class you take must be a minimum of 8 hours and NASBLA certified. Check with the instructor to verify that your class is State certified and meets the above requirements.
  1. A home study course is available through the Division of Law Enforcement at (401) 222-3070.
  2. A State approved online course is available by clicking on the link below.
Anyone taking a home study or online course must take a challenge exam with a certified instructor. Exam dates and any additional information are available through the Division of Law Enforcement.
For General Information 222-6800 • After Hours Emergencies 222-3070 • Disclaimer
rev. 2/16/06