Do You Need a Boater’s License in New York?
New York State has updated its laws. As of January 1st, 2025, all recreational boaters in New York State require a boating safety certificate to operate a motorized vessel legally.
Brianna’s law has been phased in gradually by age since 2020, and now all boaters are required to have state-approved New York Boating Safety Certificate.
Who can get a boating safety certificate in New York?
Anyone who is age 10 or older can get their New York boating Safety Certificate. Once certified, you can legally operate a motorized boat, though minors may still require adult supervision. The law is different for Personal Watercraft: New York State requires boaters to be 14 years of age or older to operate a PWC.
It is mandatory to carry your boating safety certificate with you whenever operating a motorized vessel. Note that you can request to have an anchor icon added to your New York State Driver License and use it as an all-purpose boating ID card, so you only have to carry one card with you. This type of multi-purpose card is called a New York Adventure License.
Are there any exceptions?
You do not need a New York boating Safety Certificate if:
- You are licensed to operate a commercial vessel in the U.S. or Canada;
- You are a certified boating instructor;
- You are a member of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary or US Power Squadron;
- You are a first responder who is operating a vessel in the course of your duties;
- You carry an equivalent, NABLA-recognized boating safety certification, such as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (Canada) or another state-specific boater card.
Types of vessels that require a boating safety certificate in New York
All recreational boaters who wish to operate a motorized vessel in New York State are required to obtain their boating safety certificate. This requirement applies to all motorized vessels, including personal watercraft (PWCs). Those who wish to operate non-motorized craft such as kayaks and canoes are not currently required to obtain a certificate, but are encouraged to do so.
Penalties for not having a boating safety certificate
If you are caught operating a motorized vessel without a boating safety certificate, you could be fined up to $250. The cost of getting a New York boater card is much lower!
Out-of-state boating
If you have taken a US boat safety course and are visiting from out of state, your boater card is valid in New York as long as it was issued from your current state of residence and the course was NASBLA-approved. Similarly, boaters who take an accredited course in New York can use their boating certificate when visiting other states.
Note that boaters must adhere to the age restrictions in the state they are visiting.
Is a safe boating certificate required to rent a motorboat?
If you are 18 or older, you can rent a motorboat in New York without completing a boater education course. The establishment renting out the boat is responsible for providing basic safety information before you set out. However, people under the age of 18 who want to rent a motorboat must hold a safe boating certificate.
Get your New York boating safety certificate from Drive a Boat USA!
To get your boating safety certificate, you need to sign up for an approved boat safety course and take an exam. At Drive A Boat USA, you can complete the process 100% online from start to finish!
Drive a Boat USA offers a comprehensive, NASBLA-approved New York boating safety course that can be completed at your own pace. Simply study our materials to learn everything you need to know about boating safety and take the exam when you feel ready. Make sure you’re in compliance with New York boating regulations (including for PWCs ) — get your New York Boating Safety Certificate today!