How to get your boating certificate in New York?
Want to fulfill your lifelong dream of enjoying Long Island by boat? Learn about the steps you need to take to get your boating certificate so you can get out on the water this summer.
Follow these steps to get out on the water safely in no time:
1) Find a Boating Safety Course - There are many different boating safety courses available in New York. You can find a course online, at a local community college, or through a boating organization such as the US Coast Guard Auxiliary or the US Power Squadrons.
2) Complete the Boating Safety Course - The boating safety course will teach you about the rules of the water, boat safety, and emergency procedures. The course typically takes 6-8 hours to complete.
3) Pass the Boating Safety Exam - Once you have completed the boating safety course, you will need to pass the boating safety exam. The exam is 60 multiple-choice questions and you must answer at least 48 questions correctly to pass.
4) Get Your Boating Safety Certificate - Once you have passed the boating safety exam, you will be issued a boating certificate.
Can you take New York boating certificate course online?
Yes! You may take the course online using a provider of your choice. You can begin by signing up and paying the required fee. It is typically $30 - $50 to take the course to obtain your New York State Boating Certificate.
How long does it take to get a boating license NY?
Many programs allow you to study at your own pace. Some course have you complete quizzes to gage your understanding as you go. The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, NASBLA, requires a minimum of three hours of studying to before taking the final test. After passing the exam you will receive a temporary certificate of completion so you can begin boating. The hard copy will be provided in the mail within four to six weeks of passing the exam.
How old do you have to be to drive a boat in New York?
The minimum age to operate a boat in New York is ten years old with the company of an adult. To operate a personal watercraft a boating safety certificate is required and the driver must be over 14 years old.
Do New York Boating Safety Certificates expire?
After completing the course you will receive a permanent boating safety certificate that does not expire based on the current laws.
How to get your boating license in New York?
It is very common for people to look into getting a boaters license, similar to the need for a license to drive a car. Instead a New York State a boating certificate is what is required. If an individual is 10 years old they may operate a boat with the supervision of an adult. Individuals over the age of 18 can operate a boat without adult supervision.
What is Brianna's Law?
Brianna's Law initiated the implementation of completing a state approved boating safety course when operating a motorized watercraft. Brianna's Law went into affect in 2020 by Governor Cuomo to honor the memory of Brianna, an 11 year old girl who passed away in 2005 boating accident. All operators of a powerboat will require a boating safety certificate as of 2025 regardless of age. If you are interested in hearing more about Brianna's Law visit the website a www.briannaslaw.com.
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