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How to Apply For a Boating License in Hawaii

Updated on Fri, 6/3/2011

Hawaii requires a Boater Education Card for boaters but not a boating license. The regulatory authority for the card is Hawaii's Department of Land and Resources' Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR).

There is a restriction on the age of boat operators. Operators under 15 years of age are not eligible to operate personal vessels. However, all operators of personal watercrafts should be over 15 years of age and require safety certification by Hawaii's DOBOR.

The boating laws of the state require that the person operating a boat should not be under the influence of intoxicants. The legal limit of the blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% and if arrested for a higher BAC, harsh penalties may be imposed on the operator, based on the severity of the offense as well as the previous number of such convictions.

BOATER EDUCATION COURSE

To obtain the Boater Education Card, you must complete a boater education course approved by the Hawaii DOBOR, or pass an approved equivalency test.

In an approved course, students learn how to operate and maintain their boats, the legal requirements for boating, and what to do in emergencies. This ensures that boating remains a safe and fun experience.

Classroom options are offered by DOBOR through its University of Hawaii Community College System. Classes are offered at the following locations of the College of Continuing Education:

  1. Oahu: Windward Community College.
  2. Hawaii County: Hawaii Community College.
  3. Kauai: Kauai Community College.
  4. Maui: Maui Community College.
  5. The classes are offered five times a year. There is a $109 fee for the one-day Recreation Thrill Craft Operators Safety Educational course and $139 for the two-day Ocean Safety Educational Course.

RENEWAL

The card is permanent. There is no need to renew it.

REPLACEMENT

To replace a card, contact Hawaii's Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation with proof of course completion.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

  • While liability insurance is not mandatory for boating in Hawaii, it is a good idea to have liability insurance to tide over troubles if you or someone operating your boat is involved in a boating accident.
  • See how to register your boat in Hawaii.
  • Check the contact information of Hawaii's Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation.