West Virginia Boating Safety Education Requirements
All boaters born after December 31, 1986 are required to carry the
West Virginia Boating License on board to satisfy state boating regulations
while operating on West Virginia's waters.
The online West Virginia Boating License Test satisfies
this state requirement. Passing the online exam allows you to obtain the West Virginia
Boater Education Card and get out on the water right away!
Age Restrictions
- No one under the age of 12 may operate a powered vessel, including personal watercraft
(PWC).
- No one who is 12 through 14 years old may operate a powered vessel, including PWCs,
greater than 10 horsepower unless they are under the direct supervision of a responsible
and competent adult who is at least 18 years old.
- Anyone born after December 31, 1986 must have a boater education card to operate
a motorized vessel, or supervise an underage operator of any motor powered vessel
in West Virginia.
- All boaters or passengers 12 years of age and younger on the deck or cockpit must
be wearing their PFD while the vessel is underway.
Important Note
The online boating safety course covers
a wide range of operating laws in West Virginia. For a complete listing of West
Virginia's boat operating rules and regulations, please consult the West Virginia
Division of Natural Resources website at
www.wvdnr.gov
Boating License or Boating Safety Education Certificate...is there a difference?
The boater education card is proof that you have successfully completed a boating safety course. The boater education card does not expire and does not need to be renewed. Therefore, it is NOT a West Virginia Boating License!