While recreational boaters and passengers over the age of 21 are permitted to drink while boating in New York, operating a vessel under the effects of alcohol can have serious consequences. Not only are there strict legal limits that carry severe penalties when contravened, but intoxication can seriously impair your ability to operate a vessel … Read more ›
New York State has updated its laws. Beginning 2025, all recreational boaters in New York State will require a boating safety certificate to operate a motorized vessel legally. Brianna’s law has been phased in gradually by age since 2020, and most boaters are already required to have a certificate. All boaters born on or after … Read more ›
Driving a boat is a delightful pastime, but it is one that comes with serious obligations. These include taking responsibility when involved in an accident and stopping to help other boaters in distress. Boating can be dangerous, and there are laws in place to ensure that help can be obtained in an emergency and that … Read more ›
The administrative aspect of getting a new boat can seem daunting, but it’s crucial to ensure that you are in compliance with state law before getting out on the water. To help demystify the process, Drive a Boat USA has created this handy guide to registering a boat in New York. New York boat registration … Read more ›
California’s jet ski and personal watercraft laws are intended to protect the safety of operators, passengers, and other waterway users. It’s important for PWC users to be familiar with these laws in order to avoid accidentally engaging in illegal and dangerous behavior. Personal watercraft registration Personal watercraft must be registered with the state, just like … Read more ›
Gasoline engines and generators on boats emit carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless gas that is extremely hazardous and sometimes lethal. This gas can easily accumulate on and around boats, poisoning unwary boaters. Find out where carbon monoxide accumulates on boats, the signs of CO poisoning and how to keep yourself and others safe on the … Read more ›
As boating continues to increase in popularity, human activities and waste are putting more and more pressure on the environment, particularly in crowded recreational waters. To mitigate the damage, the government has implemented laws regulating boat sewage discharge in American waters. It’s very important for recreational boaters to follow the law in order to keep … Read more ›
Hundreds of aquatic invasive species are currently threatening California’s waters. Efforts to contain their spread are complex and costly, with millions of dollars already invested. It’s important for recreational boaters to be aware of the problem and take steps to avoid accidentally contributing to the spread of aquatic invasive species in California. What are aquatic … Read more ›
If you’re getting ready to drive a boat for the first time, there are some things you need to know! First of all, you’ll want to check the boater education requirements in your state, because you may need to take a course in order to legally operate a boat. Once you’ve made sure that you’re … Read more ›
Specific requirements vary from state to state, but over 70% of the U.S. requires boaters who meet certain criteria to take a safety education course. The resulting accreditation is called a certificate, not a license, because it is good for life and doesn’t expire. Proof of certification is issued in the form of a boater … Read more ›
