It’s officially summertime, and there’s nothing better than being out on the water with a cold drink, sunscreen, and your favorite people. But a ticket for operating a boat without a licence can ruin that perfect day.
In California, boating laws govern who can be on the water and when, so getting a California Boater Card is important.
A California Boater Card is a legal requirement in the state of California. On January 1, 2018, California began phasing in Boater Cards by age. By January 1, 2025, every boat operator will need a valid California Boater Card — which means every California boater will need to complete an approved course and exam prior to January 2025.
Still need your card? Here’s what you need to know.
Why Do I Need a California Boater Card?
In 2023, California reported 339 boating-related accidents and 33 boating deaths. Too many of those incidents were caused by boater error.
To help reduce the number of accidents and deaths on the water, the state introduced the California Boaters Card Law. This has been a graduated licencing process to make boating safer for everyone.
If you’re a California boater, you must now take a state-approved boating safety course, pass an exam, and carry an official California Boater Card to operate watercraft legally.
What Are the Official Requirements for Obtaining a Boater Card in California?
The law phases in required Boater Cards by age over five years as follows:
- By January 1, 2020, anyone 35 years and younger
- By January 1, 2021, anyone 40 years and younger
- By January 1, 2022, anyone 45 years and younger
- By January 1, 2023, anyone 50 years and younger
- By January 1, 2024, anyone 60 years and younger
- By January 1, 2025, anyone regardless of age
If you don’t have your card yet — but plan to operate a boat — you still have time to get your boater card to comply with this law.
How Do You Get Your California Boater Card?
The first step to a legal day on the water is to find a boating safety education course to pass a state-approved test. The test qualifies you to operate a motorized boat. It also educates you to be a responsible boater, which improves the general safety of everyone boating on California waters.
BOATsmart! is NASBLA-approved and recognized by the Coast Guard and state authorities. Our online courses get you test-ready in three hours (compared to eight hours with other courses) and can be completed from any device at any time.
The final test is open-book and allows unlimited retries. Upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate that you can use to apply for your official Boater Card.
What Does it Cost to Take an Online Boater Safety Education Course?
The cost varies depending on the course you take. However, BOATsmart!’s online course costs $39.95 for lifetime course access.
What Are the Consequences of Not Taking a Boater Safety Education Course?
No Boater Card? The biggest consequence could be being involved in a serious boating accident because you don’t have the knowledge you need to navigate the waters safely.
However, aside from the safety risk, get ready to pay $100 for a first-time offence, $250 the second time, and $500 the third. A California Boater Card through an accredited safety education course is essential for California boaters.
Why BOATsmart!?
With a focus on safety and knowledge, BOATsmart! is the best choice for California boaters looking for an efficient online course.
We’re big fans of lake and ocean days over here! It’s our job to get you ready for a day on the water that goes off without a hitch. All you need to worry about is sunscreen and having enough water and snacks in your cooler, right?
Let us do the rest.
Learn More About California Boating Laws and Safety with BOATsmart!
We want you to stay safe on the water this season — and every season!
Stay up-to-date on the latest California boating rules and regulations with our comprehensive course. Learn everything you need to know, from fines and registering your boat to life jackets and the environment. Click to get started with the California course and get your California Boater Card.
Originally published in June 2020. Content most recently reviewed and updated for accuracy and relevancy September 12, 2024.
