Michigan requires a Boater Education Card for boaters, and not a boating license. The regulatory authority for the card is the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The card is mandatory for all boat operators born after December 31, 1978. Older boaters do not require the card.

There is no restriction on the age of boat operators. If you are less than 12 years of age you can legally operate a motorboat less than 6 Hp without any restrictions. If you are between 12 and 14 years of age, you must have obtained your Boater Education Card before January 1, 1999 to operate a PWC, or have onboard your parent or legal guardian who possess a card. You must carry your card onboard.

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 0.10% and if arrested for a higher BAC, harsh penalties may be imposed on the operator, based on the severity of the offense.

BOATER EDUCATION COURSE

To obtain the Boater Education Card, you must complete a boater education course approved by the Department of Natural Resources, 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.

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

1. Classroom options offered by the Department of Natural Resources and the U.S Coast Guard Auxiliary.
   • You may contact any local sheriff department for more details of the classes.
2. The Boater Education Card is either handed out at the end of class, or mailed to you.
3. Only the card issued after a classroom course is recognized in most other states, and by many insurance companies for insurance discounts.
4. Approved online option offered by Boat Ed.
5. Course materials are free. Some providers charge a fee for exams or the card: check providers' websites for details.
6. A temporary card may be printed after passing the online exam; the permanent card will be mailed to you.

RENEWAL

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

REPLACEMENT

To replace a card, you can write to the Recreation Safety Program, Law Enforcement Division, Department of Natural Resources, PO Box 30031, Lansing, Michigan 48909-9785 or call 517-373-3292. When requesting for a duplicate card by mail provide your full name, date of birth, current address and a daytime phone number. The department provides this service free of charge. 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 Michigan, 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 Michigan.
• Check the contact information of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.