State Boating Laws

With spring right around the corner many of us are planning to attend a local boat show and become a first time boat owner or maybe just get a look at the new boats on the market.  

With all of this excitement comes a lot of questions around what licenses and courses are legally required to operate a recreational boat.  Some potential and even some experienced boaters are not aware that laws vary by state.  So to help us all adhere to our state laws, below are links to help prepare for a safe boating season and getting those answers we need.

To get specific laws for each state visit http://www.nasbla.net/referenceguide/ and check the state-by-state reference guide, or contact your state’s boating authority.

To register or update your Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) - visit http://www.beaconregistration.noaa.gov.  

For more information visit the NOAA website at http://www.sarsat.noaa.gov/beacon.html

Many boating safety courses are offered throughout the country, for all types of recreational boaters, and for boaters of all ages. Qualified volunteer organizations, such as the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadron, and others sponsor many courses, and many state boating agencies also provide classes.

United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Safety Course offered near you: http://www.cgaux.org/boatinged/class_finder/index.php

United States Power Squadrons Safety Course offered near you:

http://www.usps.org/cgi-bin-nat/eddept/cfind.cgi