Yes! According to the California Division of Boating and Waterways boat operators of motorized vessels in California need a California Boater Card if they are 35 years of age or younger.
This requirement is being phased in over 8 years with all boat operators in California required to be certified by January 1st 2025.
What is the California Boater Card?
The California Boater Card is issued by the Division of Boating and Waterways and is good for life.
It is a card that you can get online or at authorized retailers and courses are available to help you prepare for the exam and earn your California Boater Card.
What Are Boating Requirements for California?
The California Boating Safety Education Requirement (BLSER) requires that anyone operating a motorized vessel in California take and pass a boating safety course approved by the Division of Boating and Waterways.
The course must be taken before you can legally operate a motorized vessel.
How Can I Get My California Boater Card?
There are several ways to get your California Boater Card.
Free courses are offered by the California Division of Boating and Waterways and Boat U.S.
Foundation.
You can also take the exam online or at a testing center.
Once you have successfully passed the exam you will receive your California Boater Card which is valid for life.
Who Needs a California Boater Card?
As of January 1 2018 boaters who are 20 years of age and younger were required to have a California Boater Card with the cutoff age increasing by either 5 or 10 years depending on the year.
This age requirement is being phased in over 8 years with all boat operators in California required to be certified by January 1st 2025.
What is Covered in the Boater Safety Course?
The boating safety course covers important topics such as navigation rules safety equipment and actions to take in emergency situations.
It also covers topics related to protecting the environment such as proper disposal of waste and the importance of keeping a clean waterway.
What is the Penalty for Not Having a California Boater Card?
If you are caught operating a motorized vessel without a California Boater Card you may face a fine of up to $500.
In addition you may be required to take a boating safety course in order to obtain your California Boater Card.
Are There Other Benefits to Having a California Boater Card?
Yes! Having a California Boater Card shows that you have taken an approved boating safety course and are knowledgeable of safe boating practices.
It also allows you to get discounted boat insurance as most insurance companies offer a discount for those who have taken a boating safety course.
Conclusion
Having a California Boater Card is important for anyone who operates a motorized vessel in California.
It is required by law for all operators of motorized vessels in California and it is a good way to demonstrate that you have taken an approved boating safety course and are knowledgeable of safe boating practices.
Boating safety courses are offered by the California Division of Boating and Waterways and Boat U.S.
Foundation and taking one is the best way to demonstrate your knowledge and get your California Boater Card.