With over 60,000 lakes, reservoirs, and ponds in the state, boating in Ohio is one of the Midwest’s favorite pastimes. From Lake Erie to the Miami River, Ohio has tons of options for boaters, water skiers, and swimmers alike. The way we see it, there’s nothing quite as great as spending a boat day on Ohio’s sparkling waters — but do you need a license to drive a boat in Ohio?
When it comes to boating legally in Ohio, there are several rules and regulations you’ll need to follow. This includes boater education requirements for getting on the water. Our guide to Ohio boating tells you what you need to know. So, have fun out there — and wear a lifejacket!
Do You Need a License to Drive a Boat in Ohio?
In Ohio, you do not need an additional boating license to drive a boat. However, most boaters in the state are required to complete a boater education course, pass a proficiency examination approved by the ODNR Division of Watercraft, and obtain documentation of the boating education requirement.
Regardless of your education requirements, all Ohio boaters must follow the rules of the water and become proficient in boating and watercraft safety.
What are the Age Requirements for Driving a Boat in Ohio?
There are certain age requirements for boat and personal watercraft operators.
Anyone under 16 years old may not operate a personal watercraft without supervision from an adult who has completed the necessary boater education requirements. Additionally, anyone under the age of 12 may not operate a power craft above ten horsepower without direct supervision from an adult. This supervising adult must also have completed the necessary boater education requirements.
To legally operate a boat with ten horsepower or greater in Ohio, a boater education card is required for:
- Any person born on or after January 1, 1982
What Are the Penalties?
Boating without a license can lead to penalties. Ohio boaters caught not complying with the boating safety education requirements could face a fine of up to $250.
What Types of Bats Need a Licensed Driver in Ohio?
In Ohio, anyone born on or after January 1, 1982, must obtain a boater education card to operate a boat with a horsepower of ten or greater. However, you can paddle your kayak or canoe or other non-motorized vessels without a license.
How Do I get a Boat License in Ohio?
Ohio boaters are not required to obtain an additional boating license. However, many boaters are required to obtain and carry proof of boater education.
Luckily, BOATsmart! makes it easy to get your boater education card with the following steps:
- Take the BOATsmart! Ohio Boating Safety Course online.
- Pass your online Ohio Boating Safety Test.
- Print your temporary certificate immediately, and get on the water.
With your boater card and safety knowledge, you’re ready to hit the water in Ohio!
Are There Any Exceptions?
In Ohio, anyone meeting the following criteria are exempt from the boater education requirement:
- A person born before January 1, 1982.
- A person operating a recreational boat who possesses a valid merchant mariner credential issued by the Coast Guard with at least one endorsement of master or operator must carry proof of the credential on board during boat operation.
Whether you qualify for an exemption or not, safety must be your priority when operating a boat.
Boat Safely in Ohio With Boater Education
Boating in the Buckeye State means big fun! With our engaging and animated boating safety courses, you can get to the water legally and with confidence.
Check our course offerings today, and we’ll get you certified, safe, and ready to boat!
Originally published October 28, 2021. Content most recently reviewed and updated August 7, 2024.
