In Washington, boaters born after Dec. 31, 1954, who operate a motorized boat (including PWCs) of 15 horsepower or more are required to have a Washington Boating License. There are benefits to being a BOATsmart! cardholder too – 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’s provinces and territories, and you’ll even save money on your boat insurance.