Ohio requires a Boater Education Card for boaters, and not a boating license. The regulatory authority for the card is the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. The card is mandatory for all boat operators born after January 1, 1982 to operate a vessel with a motor higher than 10 HP.

If you are between 12 and 15 years of age, you must have your Boater Education Card onboard, and operate the boat under the direct, onboard supervision of an adult who completes the above requirements. If you are under 12 years of age and wish to operate a power craft greater than 10 HP, you can do so under the direct supervision of a person who is 18 years or older.

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.

EXEMPTIONS

The following persons are exempt from the above requirements:

• Boat operators possessing a valid boaters' license issued by the U.S Coast Guard.
• Operators renting a power craft after obtaining boater education materials from the rental agency and passing the exam with a score greater than 90%.

BOATER EDUCATION COURSE

To obtain the Boater Education Card, you must complete a boater education course approved by the NASBLA, 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 Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Watercraft, the US Power Squadron and the US Coast Guard Auxiliary.
2. These courses may take up to 8 hours to complete.
3. The Boater Education Card is either handed out at the end of class, or mailed to you.
4. Only the card issued after a classroom course is recognized in most other states, and by many insurance companies for insurance discounts.
5. Approved online options offered by Boat Ed, Boater Exam Ohio, and Boat U.S. Foundation.
6. These courses may take up to 8 hours to complete.
7. Course materials are free. Some providers charge a fee for exams or the card: check providers' websites for details.
8. A temporary card may be printed after passing the online exam; the permanent card will be mailed to you within 45 days.
9. The option of studying at home using Ohio Boater Education course material, and passing a proctored exam.

RENEWAL

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

REPLACEMENT

To replace a card, write to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources with your name, proof of course completion, and date of birth. 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 Ohio, 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 Ohio.
• Check the contact information of The Ohio Department of Natural Resources.