How To Get A Boating License In Ohio

Ohio Boater Safety Course

In Ohio, anyone born on or after January 1, 1982, must successfully complete a boater safety course approved by The ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft in order to operate a motorized vessel with greater than 10 hp. Boaters are required to carry their boater education certificate as proof of boater education.

Boating Age Requirements

Motorized vessels with greater than 10 hp motor (excluding PWC):
Individuals 12 years of age or older may legally operate (unsupervised). Individuals under 12 years of age may operate if a supervising person is aboard.

Motorized vessels with less than 10 hp motor or vessels without a motor (excluding PWC):
Individuals that are 12 years of age or older may legally operate. Individuals under 12 years of age may operate if the operator is under the direct visual and audible supervision of a supervising person (not required to be on board).

Note: Under Ohio law, a supervising person is defined as an adult person who is 18 years of age or older and provides direct visual and audible supervision. A supervising person must meet the mandatory education requirements as described above.

Personal Watercraft (PWC) Age Requirements

Individuals who are 16 years of age or older may legally operate a PWC (unsupervised)
Individuals 12-15 years of age may operate IF a supervising person is aboard
Individuals under 12 years of age may not operate at all

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This official Ohio boating safety course is approved by the State of Ohio's Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks & Watercraft.

Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks & Watercraft
2045 Morse Road, Bldg C
Columbus, Ohio 43229
watercraft.ohiodnr.gov

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