Montana requires a Boater Education Card or a motorboat operator's certificate for boaters, and not a boating license. The regulatory authority for the card is Montana Fish.

There is no restriction on the age of boat operators. If you are under 12 years of age, you can operate a motorboat or a PWC powered by a 10 HP motor or greater only under the direct, onboard supervision of a person who is 18 years or older. If you are 13 or 14 years of age you also require a Montana motorboat operator's certificate or proof of completion of an approved boating safety course.

The laws also 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 similar convictions.

BOATER EDUCATION COURSE

To obtain the Boater Education Card, you must complete a boating safety course approved by the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

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 the U.S Coast Guard Auxiliary.
   • You must successfully pass the exam administered at the end of the course to obtain the certificate.
2. The Boater Education Card is either handed out at the end of class, or mailed to you within a week.
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 options offered by Boater Exam Montana and 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.
7. Using a Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks approved home-study course and passing a proctored exam. You can contact the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks office or call the state headquarters at 406-444-2535 to get the course material.

RENEWAL

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

REPLACEMENT

To replace a card, write to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, 1420 E 6th Ave., PO Box 200701, Helena, MT 59620-0701 with your full name, date of birth and a check for $5. 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 Montana, 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 here.
• See how to register your boat in Montana.
• Check the contact information of Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.