Idaho as a state does not require a Boater Education Card or a boating license for boaters, although some counties are creating their own regulations. The regulatory authority for the card is the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation.

For Adams and Benewah counties:

If you are under 10 years of age, you cannot operate a motor driven watercraft unless under direct adult supervision.

If you are between the ages of 10 and 14, you cannot operate a watercraft powered by a motor higher than 15 horsepower unless under direct adult supervision.

For Bonner county:

If you are under 10 years of age, you cannot operate a motor driven watercraft unless under direct adult supervision.

If you are between the ages of 10 and 14, you cannot operate a watercraft powered by a motor higher than 10 horsepower unless under direct adult supervision.

For Kootenai county:

If you are between the ages of 10 and 14, you cannot operate a watercraft powered by a motor higher than 15 horsepower unless under direct adult supervision.

For Valley county:

If you are under 12 years of age, you cannot operate a motor driven watercraft unless under direct adult supervision.

If you are between the ages of 12 and 16, you cannot operate a watercraft powered by a motor higher than 15 horsepower unless under direct adult supervision.

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

Although not required, Idaho encourages boaters to take the boating safety education course. To obtain the Boater Education Card, you must complete a boater education course by any of the approved affiliated programs.

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.

There are various approved ways you can complete the course and obtain the card:

1. Classroom options provided by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the U.S. Power Squadron, and several county sheriff's departments. and Contact the Boating Safety Education Coordinator at kjackson@idpr.idaho.gov to pre-register.
2. Online options available by Boat Ed, which carries practice tests and studying material regulated by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary unit. The other online option is offered by Boat U.S. Foundation.

RENEWAL

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

REPLACEMENT

You may obtain a duplicate card by contacting the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation with proof of course completion. Students who took the exam online may obtain a duplicate card by contacting their providers, and for a fee - check the providers' websites for details.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• While liability insurance is not mandatory for boating in Idaho, 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.
• Read the course material for the Boater Education Course.
• See how to register your boat in Idaho.
• Check the contact information of Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation.