New Mexico Boating Regulations

As of January 1, 2007, all persons born on or after January 1, 1989 who operate a motorboat must have completed a State of New Mexico and NASBLA-approved safe boating education course. The resulting New Mexico Boater Education Card must be carried onboard during operation.

Many boating fatalities occur because boaters aren't educated about boating safety. New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department believes that an educated boater is a safer boater.

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

You can write 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 New Mexico 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 New Mexico boater education card is available at BOATERexam.com®. Simply visit our Safe Boating Course Manual section to gain access to the New Mexico specific training material. The New Mexico Safe Boating Course is accredited by NASBLA and by the New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department..

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

Answers to most of your questions can be found on our Frequently Asked Questions page. You may also visit the New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department for additional information, or you can contact us and we will be glad to answer any of your questions.

Did you know?

Many boaters incorrectly use the term "New Mexico 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

As of January 1, 2007, all persons born on or after January 1, 1989 who operate a motorboat, sailboat, or PWC must have completed a State of New Mexico and NASBLA-approved safe boating education course. The resulting New Mexico Boater Education Card must be carried onboard during operation.