South Dakota Boating Regulations

The South Dakota Boater Education Card (also sometimes incorrectly referred to as the South Dakota boating license) is proof that a boater has taken and passed an approved boater education course. The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish & Parks currently offers a Boater Education Card to prove that you are a safe boater. This can have benefits such as savings on marine insurance.

Many boating fatalities occur because boaters aren't educated about boating safety. South Dakota Department of Game, Fish & Parks 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.

Where can I get the boater safety education course material?

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

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

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

Get your Boater Education Card Online!

Did you know?

Many boaters incorrectly use the term "South Dakota 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 Card cannot be revoked and is good for life.

Education Requirement

Although there is currently no mandatory education requirements in South Dakota, an Educated Boater is a Safer Boater. By taking a boating safety course, you help ensure our waterways are the safest they can be. Not to mention, completing a course may reduce your boat insurance 10-15%!