Kentucky Boating Regulations

The Kentucky Boater Education Card (also referred to as the Kentucky boating license) is proof that a boater has taken and passed an approved boater education course. The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife currently has a mandatory boater education requirement for all persons between the ages 12 and 17 years who wish to operate a powered vessel over 10hp (including PWCs) on Kentucky waters. Many boaters who do not fall into this category will still wish to get the Kentucky Boater Education Card so they can save on their boat insurance.

Many boating fatalities occur because boaters are not educated about boating safety. The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife believe that an educated boater is a safer boater.

Where can I take my safe boating exam and get my Boater Education Card?

You can take your safe boating exam directly on the Internet at BOATERexam.com®. Once you pass the exam your boater education card is mailed to your home. In the meantime, you can print off a Certificate of Completion that can be used as a temporary card to satisfy the Kentucky boating regulations until your permanent boater education card arrives.

Where can I get the boater safety education course material?

All the required safe boating training material to get your Kentucky boater education card is available at BOATERexam.com®. Simply visit our Safe Boating Course Manual section to gain access to the Kentucky specific training material. The Kentucky Safe Boating Course is accredited by NASBLA and by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Where can I get more information about Kentucky boating regulations and the Kentucky boater education card?

Answers to most of your questions can be found on our Frequently Asked Questions page. You may also visit The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife for additional information, or you can contact us and we will be glad to answer any of your questions.

Get your Kentucky Boater Education Card Online!

Did you know?

Many boaters incorrectly use the term "Kentucky Boating License" when referring to their Boater Education Card. The Boater Education Card is NOT a boating license. Unlike a driver's license, your Boater Education Certificate cannot be revoked and is good for life.

Education Requirement

Boater Education is required for all persons between 12 and 17 years of age who operate a powered watercraft on Kentucky waters.