Boating in Texas is just part of life in the Lone Star State. When the weather gets warmer, you can bet the lakes and shores of the southern coast will be full of boaters and water sports enthusiasts.
While there are plenty of ways to enjoy the water in Texas, one thing must be a common thread for anyone in or on the water: safety must be a priority.
Boaters must also follow the state’s regulations for licensing (or having a Texas Boater Education card). Do you need one? Keep reading to find out!
Do Boaters Need a Texas Boater Education Card?
Yes, depending on your age, you need a Texas Boater Education card (also known as a boating license).
Boat operators who were born on or after September 1st, 1993, are required to obtain one of these cards to legally operate the following vessels:
- A motorized boat of 15 hp or more
- A wind-powered sailboat greater than 14 feet in length
- A Personal Watercraft (PWC)
Boaters caught operating without their Boater Education Card can be fined up to $500.
How Do I Get the Card?
You can get your Texas boater safety card online through BOATsmart!. The course takes about three hours to complete and is animated, narrated, and illustrated, making it perfect for boaters of all ages.
Once you’ve completed the State-approved online course and passed the final exam, you’ll be issued a temporary certificate, which you can use to go boating legally right away. Certified boaters can then download their permanent Boater Education Card from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
Once you’ve completed the course and test, your permanent card is typically available for downloading within 7-10 business days.
How Old Do I Need to Be to Get the Texas Boater Education Card?
You must be at least 13 years of age to complete your Boater Education Course and obtain your Texas Boater Education Card. Boaters younger than 13 do not need to have a boater education card.
Are There Age restrictions or Supervision Requirements?
Supervision requirements apply to boat operators who are less than 13 years old. Children who are less than 13 may operate a boat as long as they are supervised. The supervisor must be 18 years of age or older, on board the boat while it’s being operated, and legally allowed to take over the operation of the boat if required.
Do I Need a License to Rent a Boat in Texas?
Yes. Operators who are renting a boat in Texas are required to obtain a Boater Education Card. By the rule of the commission, a person may purchase a one-time 15-day boater education deferral at any place where hunting and fishing licenses are sold.
Most boating accidents occur because operators don’t have the proper knowledge and training to operate safely. It’s unlikely that a rental company will teach you the ins and outs of various rescue procedures or how to respond in a boating emergency. So get certified and stay safe on the water.
Is Anyone Exempt from Needing the Texas Boater Education Card?
Again, yes.
There are a few groups who may be exempt from having to obtain a boating safety card. However, getting the card is still highly recommended to ensure you’re safe and confident on the water.
You may be exempt from obtaining your boater education card if you are:
- Born prior to September 1st, 1993
- Being directly supervised by an adult while operating
- A non-resident and have completed an approved boater education course from another state
- You have purchased a one-time 15-day boater education deferral (available at any place hunting and fishing licenses are sold)
Can I Use my Texas Boater Education Card to Operate in a Boat in Another State?
The Texas Boater Education card is accepted in 40 states or any state with a mandatory boater education requirement, as well as in all Canadian provinces. This is known as “reciprocity.”
Get Your Boater Card and Boat Safely in Texas
It’s easy to get your boater education card to boat safely in Texas! BOATsmart!’s online course is fun and engaging while providing all of the required information boaters need to boat legally and prioritize safety on the waters.
Get started, get certified, then enjoy boating in Texas!
Originally published in June 2020. Content most recently reviewed and updated for accuracy and relevancy September 11, 2024.
