All boaters in Ohio who were born after Jan.1, 1982, who operate a motorized boat (including PWCs) of 10 horsepower or more are required to have an Ohio Boating License. There are great benefits to being a BOATsmart! cardholder – once you’ve obtained the Card, it will be good for life, it will keep you legal when boating in other states and in Canada and you’ll even save money on your boat insurance.