Tennessee Rules & Regulations

Tennessee Boating Regulations and Laws

The Tennessee Boater Education Card (also referred to as the Tennessee boating certificate) is proof that a boater has taken and passed an approved boater education course. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency currently has a mandatory boater education requirement requiring all boaters born after January 1, 1989 to have the Tennessee boating certificate on board when the vessel is underway to satisfy the Tennessee boating regulations.

Many boating fatalities occur because boaters aren't educated about boating safety. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency believes that an educated boater is a safer boater.

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

If you were born after January 1, 1989 and wish to operate a powered vessel on Tennessee waters you are required to successfully complete a proctored exam in a classroom setting. Please use the free course material available on this website to prepare for your classroom course.

For all others boaters, 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 until your permanent boater education card arrives.

• Overview of the Tennessee online boating exam process

Where can I get the boater safety education course material?

All the required safe boating training material to get your boater education card is available at BOATERexam.com^®. Simply visit our Tennessee Safe Boating Course section to gain access to the training material. The Tennessee Safe Boating Course is accredited by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.

• Safe Boating Training for Tennessee

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

Answers to most of your questions about the Tennessee boater's certificate can be found on our Frequently Asked Questions page. You may also visit The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency for additional information, or you can contact us and we will be glad to answer any of your questions.

• Frequently Asked Questions about the Tennessee boater's certificate
• BOATERexam.com^® Contact Information

Get your Tennessee Boating Certificate Online!

Did you know?

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