What is the Texas boating safety education certificate?
- The Texas boating safety education certificate (also referred to as the Texas Boaters License) is proof that a boater has demonstrated basic boating knowledge by passing an approved boating safety course and exam.
Do I have to get the Texas boating safety education certificate (Texas boater's license)?
- Operators must meet age and education requirements in order to operate a motorized vessel of 10 horsepower or more, a personal watercraft, or a windblown vessel over 14 feet in length. A person less than 13 years of age may operate only if he or she is accompanied on board by a person who is 18 years of age or older. A person 13 through 17 years of age may operate only if he or she has passed a boating safety education course approved by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department or is accompanied on board by a person who is 18 years of age or older. All persons required to have passed a state-approved boating safety education course must carry with them on the vessel photographic identification, such as a driver's license, and a boating safety education certificate issued by the Texas Parks and Wildlife
By law, you must be at least 13 years old to receive your Texas boater education certificate. Twelve year olds may take the Certification Exam, but they will not be mailed their boater education certificate until their 13th birthday.
Note: It may take as long as 3 weeks to receive your permanent boater education certification card in the mail from Texas Parks and Wildlife. However, if you need your certification card quickly, after you pass the Certification Exam you will be given the option to have a temporary certificate expedited to you for an additional fee.
Passing the Texas boating safety course may make you eligible for a discount on your boat or PWC insurance. Send a copy of your boater safety certificate to your agent and start saving!