Florida Boater Education Card: The Complete Guide
If you want to take to the water legally in Florida, you need to make sure you have the right documentation on board with you at all times. A valid Florida Boater Education Card proves that you have completed an approved boating safety course and can legally operate a motorized vessel on state waters.
Who needs a Florida Boater Education Card?
If you are boating in Florida, you were born on or after January 1, 1988, and you are operating a vessel of 10 horsepower or more, you need a Florida Boater Education Card.
You must always carry your boater card and a photo ID with you on your boat.
Exceptions:
You do not need a Florida Boater Education Card if:
- You are licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard as a master of a vessel.
- You are operating on a private lake or pond.
- You are accompanied by a person who is at least 18 years old and who has a Florida Boater Education Card, or an equivalent qualification. (This person will be responsible for the vessel and any legal consequences of your actions as boat operator.)
- You are operating a vessel within 90 days of purchasing that vessel, and have a complete, detailed bill of sale on board which you make available for inspection by the authorities.
- You are a non-resident who has in your possession proof that you have completed a NASBLA-approved boater safety course or equivalency examination from another state. Visitors from out of state who do not have a boater card issued by their home state can take a Temporary Certificate test.
- You have completed an approved boating safety course in the last 90 days and have proof of completion and photo ID with you. To be considered valid, a course completion certificate must include your first and last names, your date of birth and the date that you completed the course.
How to get a Florida Boater Education Card
Getting your Florida Boater Education Card is a simple process that can be completed fully online at Drive A Boat USA.
- Complete our approved Florida boating safety course. You’ll learn about Florida PFD regulations, towed water sports laws, PWC rules and regulations, and more.
- Pass the course exam.
- Receive a course completion certificate.
- Submit a request to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) for the ID card to the following address:
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Division of Law Enforcement
Boating Safety Section
620 South Meridian Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600
Phone: 850-488-5600
Email: bobbercard@mfwc.com
Florida Boater Education Card FAQ
Does the Boating Safety Education Card expire?
No, the ID card does not expire and does not need to be renewed. It is valid for life.
Can I use my course completion certificate while waiting for my card?
Yes, you can use your course completion certificate along with a photo ID as proof of training for up to 90 days while waiting to receive your official card from the FWC.
Is the Florida Boating Safety Education Card valid in other states?
Yes, the card is accepted in 40 states that extend reciprocity, as it meets the National Standards established by NASBLA (National Association of State Boating Law Administrators).
What is the fine for not having the card?
Boaters caught without a Boating Safety Education Card may receive fines ranging from $50 for a first offense up to $1000 for subsequent offenses.